Aldara Topical and Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride

• Generic Name: imiquimod topical
• Dosage Forms: cream
• Other Brand Names: Aldara, Zyclara, Zyclara Pump

Imiquimod topical is used to treat external warts around the genital and rectal areas called condyloma acuminatum. It is not used on warts inside the vagina, penis, or rectum. Imiquimod is also used to treat a skin condition of the face and scalp called actinic keratosis (AK), which is caused by too much sun exposure. Imiquimod may be used to treat certain types of skin cancer called superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC).

Imiquimod works on the immune system to help the body fight viruses that cause warts. It does not destroy the viruses directly. It is not known how imiquimod works for actinic keratosis or skin cancer.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: oxymetazoline ophthalmic
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Visine LR, Visine Long Lasting, Ocuclear

Self-medication for temporary relief of nasal congestion associated with the common cold, hay fever, or other upper respiratory allergies.

As effective as other topical vasoconstrictors.

Labeled and has been used for self-medication for temporary relief of nasal congestion associated with sinusitis; however, efficacy data are lacking and/or controversial. In October 2005, FDA issued final rule to remove this indication from labeling of OTC nasal decongestants. Compliance date for preparations with annual sales <$25,000 is October 11, 2007; compliance date for all other preparations is April 11, 2007.

Self-medication for temporary relief of ocular redness due to minor irritation.

Has been used for self-medication for symptomatic prevention of otitic barotrauma (aerotitis [barotitis] media); however, no more effective than placebo.