Zyclara

The active ingredient in Zyclara is imiquimod. Imiquimod stimulates the immune system and activates immune cells. However, it is unknown how exactly Zyclara works to target actinic keratosis and genital or perianal warts.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Zyclara. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Zyclara:

• Zyclara should be used exactly as prescribed. Zyclara is for use on the skin only. Do not use on the lips, mouth, eyes, or inside the nose, anus, or vagina.
• It is typically applied once a day at night. Use just enough to cover the affected area with a thin layer and rub it in fully. Wash your hands once done. Before applying, wash the application site with mild soap and water. Make sure you let the area dry before applying. After applying, do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings.
• After about 8 hours, wash the treatment area with mild soap and water and repeat the process the following day.
• Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds while using Zyclara. Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible and use broad-spectrum sunscreen or wear protective clothing during the daytime.
• If you are using Zyclara on your genital or perianal area, do not have sexual contact. Zyclara can also weaken condoms and vaginal diaphragms.
• Avoid concomitant use of Zyclara with other imiquimod products on the same treatment area.
• If you experience intolerable skin reactions, follow up with your prescriber. They may recommend a “rest period” where you temporarily stop using Zyclara until the reaction clears up. In these cases, the treatment cycle does not need to be extended for these missed doses.
• If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

The most common side effects of Zyclara seen in clinical trials include:

• General skin irritation at the site of application, including redness (erythema), scabbing, crusting, dryness, flaking, itchiness, and swelling
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Back pain

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Zyclara. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe local skin reactions, such as damaged skin that bleeds or oozes, blisters, and severe pain or swelling (edema). Additionally, skin reactions that either worsen or do not improve with continued use should also be further investigated by your prescriber.
• Flu-like symptoms such as tiredness, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, muscle pain, and joint pain.
• Allergic reaction with symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Zyclara. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Zyclara, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Problems with your immune system, including those who are immunosuppressed, have an autoimmune condition, or graft versus host disease
• Have received other treatments or procedures for your skin
• Skin problems or damaged skin
• Active sunburn or extreme sensitivity to sun (xeroderma pigmentosum)
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

There are no contraindications to using Zyclara.

It can take several weeks of regular use on the affected skin to see the full benefits of imiquimod cream.

When Zyclara is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Zyclara cream is available in pump bottles or unit-dose packets. Pump bottles are available in strengths of 2.5 and 3.75% while the packets are only in a strength of 3.75%.

Imiquimod cream is also available under another brand name called Aldara.

Zyclara should be stored at room temperature in an upright position, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Zyclara is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Bausch Health.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Zyclara.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Zyclara.

It is unknown if Zyclara is safe in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Zyclara passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. If you breastfeed while using Zyclara, avoid contact of treated skin with your baby’s mouth or eyes.