Imiquimod topical and Pain: What Users Say (Page 3)

• Per...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 11, 2019

For Human Papilloma Virus "I was prescribed this imiquimod medicine for HPV and wish I would have been given better instructions! I used two doses and am in the most excruciating pain I’ve ever been in. You only need a little bit and only on the warts themselves, NOT all around them!! I made this mistake and have been experiencing nausea, loss of appetite, tenderness and pain on external genitals, body aches, chills, headache, fatigue, swelling, all the symptoms that you DON'T want a medication to give you!! I think if I had been given clear instructions on how much to actually use, I don’t think I’d be in this much pain and agony. It hurts to walk, sit, go to the bathroom, the only time it feels better is when I’m in a warm bath. If you are prescribed this, DO NOT use the whole packet!!!! I hope this helps so nobody has to experience the same thing I am!! OUCH!!!"

• Per...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 5, 2015

For Human Papilloma Virus "I was prescribed Aldara by my GP for genital warts. I was instructed to use the cream 3x weekly (every other day) and to use it sparingly. I had approx 5 warts at the time of diagnosis, one large, about the size of a pea, and the others about the size of crumbs. I am on my 7th application (beginning Week 3), and already the warts have almost vanished. The largest one has reduced to the size of a crumb, and only one other remains. The 1st week and a half I had some discomfort (I couldn't wear underwear as the treatment area was quite sore and raw), but nothing torturous like other stories I've read online. My labia is swollen, and a few blisters have developed near the treatment area, but I assume this will subside after I stop applying the cream."

• Gan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 12, 2018

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "It’s day ten, and I have used Aldara continuously in the first four days and stopped on the fifth day because the pain was unbearable and I wanted to take a break. The burning urination was still there, along with the itchiness, white discharge, and burning sensation overall. Pain started to ease on day eight, and I had sex and didn’t feel any discomfort (just embarrassment, lol). Today, I took a look at my vagina, and I was happy to see that most of my GWs were either completely gone or had gotten smaller. I applied Aldara again since I have no pain or discomfort and will continue to take it. Again, hope this works and will keep you updated."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 24, 2018

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "After using it for 2 days, I noticed my warts shrinking and thought, hell yeah! By the end of the week, I can’t sleep because the small amount I’m putting in has burnt my penis, and it’s swollen and very red! It’s now been 3 weeks since I stopped using the product, and I still can’t touch my penis and pull back the skin without it bringing me to tears! The pain is unbelievable, and I will never forget it. Just walking around with underwear on hurts because it rubs."

• Itw...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 4, 2016

For Human Papilloma Virus "I had GW about 5 years ago, which has recurred again now. Recurrence is largely due to poor immunity. The pain from broken, damaged skin Aldara causes is unbearable, but worth it because it does work - slowly but eventually. I found relief by washing the area the next morning, or next day with a weak solution of apple cider vinegar diluted with warm water. This really helps soothe the skin and relieves itching. You can repeat as often as necessary."

• Why...
• January 5, 2019

For Human Papilloma Virus "So I was told I had a few little warts near my vagina and butt after I gave birth. I wanted to try something a little less dramatic than the acid, so I opted for the cream, and now I wish I had just let her use the acid. The first time I used it was no big deal. It was after the second time that I started to feel the burn and itching. I figured it was no big deal, a minor side effect. The next day I had a doc appointment, she looked at it before my pap and told me it looked fine. Then I went home, used it for the third time, and that will probably be the last time. The day after, I woke up to complete burning and itching, everything hurt: sitting, walking, peeing, even taking a bath burned like hell. I took one look at my vagina, and it was red, swollen, it looked almost like I had been burned. The pain was so bad I took a shower and cried the entire time. DON'T USE THIS CREAM. You will find a bunch of other women say this cream did nothing but cause them pain. I wish I had done my research."

• jen...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 18, 2019

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "4 weeks in and only one wart has shrunk. Most have stayed the same, and I have actually had lots more warts appear despite taking really good care of myself. The side effects are horrific - I have red, raw patches that feel like blisters and burns on my inner labia, which is odd because I've not applied the cream there and have no warts there! It is difficult to sleep at night because of the pain and itching. I've used Warticon in the past and had a much better experience - Aldara feels like I'm just putting acid on my genitals without any reward or success!"

• Are...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 6, 2017

For Human Papilloma Virus "Got 3 tiny bumps the size of a grain of sand at the opening of the vagina 20 months ago, thought they were ingrown hairs, pinched off with tweezers. A month later had a lot of vigorous sex with my boyfriend, the next day had about 6 bumps in the same place. Went to the clinic immediately, the doctor said they were genital warts caused by a form of HPV, I was devastated. Went to the gynecologist 3 weeks later, warts spread, about 20, he biopsied a cluster. Tried apple cider vinegar, it was very painful. Biopsy came back negative for HPV, so went to a dermatologist. He said warts too, prescribed Imiquimod 5% cream. Used it Mon, Wed, Fri. Seemed like it took forever and got welts on the perineum, but warts were gone by 5 weeks. Got 1 bump 3 months later, used cream. Haven't had any for 13 months, but my boyfriend just developed them."

• Blo...
• October 28, 2017

For Basal Cell Carcinoma "I am just starting week 3 of 12 for BCC on my sideburn. The area turned into a scab almost immediately and is now about the size of a British penny-it has been sore at times, and I have noticed another spot below it that may just be an insect bite. I go running most days, and I'm pretty healthy. I did notice feeling a bit lethargic and my airways not being so clear, but I'm currently putting that down to the weather and my training regime. I will update as I progress."

• 28-...
• December 28, 2020

For Human Papilloma Virus "I developed a pretty large cluster of genital warts on the left side of my scrotum and inside of my groin. Dr. prescribed me imiquimod and told me '1-2 months.' I just finished my 4th week, and it was a BRUTAL month. The applied area feels like someone took a blowtorch to my groin. The skin feels absolutely fried and looks horrendous. Soreness came and went, plus a lot of clear drainage/discharge that had an awful odor. I've followed instructions carefully, applying 3 times a week, M/W/F, washing off before application and then in the morning (after 6-10 hours). I believe most of the smaller warts have been destroyed, but it's tough to tell because the skin looks like it's been burnt off. The pain hit unbearable levels the last few days. The bigger warts haven't been impacted at all. Today I couldn't even lay in bed comfortably because any movement irritates the skin. I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy. I'd recommend different treatments because this has been excruciatingly painful."

• Pai...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 8, 2016

For Human Papilloma Virus "After having liquid nitrogen treatment every week for six months, I gave up and lived with the warts on my bottom for two years. Then I decided to go back and was given Aldara cream. When the doc examined me, he counted 11 warts. After four weeks, he examined me again and found three warts and gave me another month's supply of cream. Two weeks later, I think I have one wart that has shrunk, so I expect that will disappear very soon. The cream has been very painful, and after using it for over a month, I find it difficult to use the toilet or wipe down there. Despite the pain, I'm glad I was given this cream, when I stop using it, the inflammation should clear up, and hopefully, the warts will be gone for good."

• Wor...
• February 24, 2014

For Human Papilloma Virus "My gynecologist offered me two choices: cryotherapy or the cream. I chose the instant freeze method because he said it was a faster alternative. Four of my small warts were frozen and the two large ones, about the size of my middle fingernail, he suggested that I use the Aldara cream for. The first application didn't burn at all, but it itched like crazy around 4 a.m. when I woke up, and the same for the next application. I didn't see any results, so I tried an ACV treatment for two hours one day. It hurt like hell, but I did notice a difference after that. The morning after my third application, I was literally able to wipe the warts away, but it damaged my skin terribly in two places!"

• 555...
• November 23, 2017

For Human Papilloma Virus "HPV base of penis about 15+ years ago. 7 to 8 warts ranging in size from a small dot like this '.' to 2 to 3 mm further out from the base. 1st had liquid N2 applied.. came back within 6 months. Prescribed Aldara (new on the market at the time & I don't think the side effects were well or widely known?) I was told a small amount once/day, 14 days. By the evening of the 2nd day, fever and chills started. The application site was irritated. Day 5 was agony. Felt as if skin, including scrotum, had been peeled off! (didn't put it there). Fever, achy (immune response in high gear!) Stopped treatment, pain continued to worsen for 2 days. 2 weeks to heal....BUT HPV completely gone 15+ years. I would recommend stopping at the first sign of irritation, waiting, applying again, stopping, etc."

• Kia...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 23, 2015

For Human Papilloma Virus "So when I first did my research, I was scared because I saw the word cancer. I thought to myself, I'm too young for cancer, just graduating. When I went to my doctor, they gave me this cream. The first few days were okay, then I started getting sensitive everywhere, including my breasts, and felt really sick to my stomach, can't really hold food down. My genitals are red and bleeding, the warts area is cleared for the most part, just my actual vaginal area that is killing me. It burns to go to the bathroom, nonstop pains, and every time I move. Hopefully, I am able to get better."

• Sea...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 17, 2020

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "Was prescribed Aldara to treat two genital warts. One large and one small. I had read a few reviews and was a little worried about using it, would be worth the pain. Just over three weeks in, and the smaller one is completely gone and the skin is almost healed apart from a little redness, the other has almost disappeared. No real noticeable side effects. Felt a little run down one or two days, but it is December. I was quite aware of the area in that there was some slight discomfort and the occasional itch, but nothing close to pain. The skin itself did get quite red, and there was some dry skin. But nothing major. If it helps, I was very careful not to spread the cream onto any particularly sensitive areas. Was very careful about washing both before and after and have been taking a good multivitamin. Overall, I'd say a very positive experience."

• Jma...
• January 6, 2016

For Human Papilloma Virus "I had a common wart on my palm that decided to spread like wildfire, and I ended up with over 20 small warts between both of my palms. Freezing, salicylic acid, nor Carac cream could get rid of these little suckers. Not to mention that freezing them off hurt like anything, considering how many nerves are in your palms. Finally, the doctor decided to inject Novocaine and actually scrape and cauterize 3 larger ones. This was also painful, but she did get rid of them, and after some persuading, I was given the imiquimod cream to take over a 16-week period. This stuff works. I've been using this 3 nights a week for 5 weeks, and the small warts are practically gone, with the larger ones significantly smaller/almost eliminated, as well."

• AGa...
• May 13, 2021

For Human Papilloma Virus "So when I started it, the area around the wart started getting inflamed on the second use only. By the third use, I noticed some yellow stuff coming off of the skin touching the wart, and it had become painful, so I gave it a break of 3 days. After a week, it healed. In week 2, it had become even bigger than I first started, probably because I started using it while it was still growing. I also started covering my extremely sensitive area with doctor tape so that when I apply the medicine on the wart, it doesn’t touch the sensitive area, which helped A LOT. However, the wart was still there. Fortunately, on the 3rd day of the 2nd week, half of it was gone, and by the 3rd week, it was gone like it was never there. This cream definitely works, and the pain was bearable and temporary. It needs to be used in a very small quantity, and if you feel that the pain is getting unbearable, just give yourself a break of 2-3 days after every week. Vaseline can be used in areas surrounding the wart to protect the good skin."

• Bur...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 28, 2020

For Human Papilloma Virus "I discovered about 6 genital warts on my scrotum, went to my campus health provider, and was prescribed the 5% version of this cream. It said use 3 times a week on one place and every day on my prescription bottle, so I used it every day for 10 days - dumbest move I’ve ever made in my entire life. Tbh I’m only writing this so no one else does the same thing. I have been only able to sleep maybe 5 hours a night sparsely in the past 4 nights, my scrotum looks like it has been infected with herpes and received 3rd-degree burns. When I walk places, it’s like I’m being stuck with needles in my scrotum. I just put some Aloe Vera on it before typing out this, so hopefully that’ll help the recovery, and I’ll be able to walk like a normal person again soon. But, whatever you do, if you’ve been using it for consecutive days - stop, and if you plan on doing it - I promise you it’s not worth it. I guess this is what I get for thinking I could tough it out."

• Sht...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 24, 2020

For Human Papilloma Virus "I had a pretty severe case of warts under the foreskin, made worse by early misdiagnosis and steroid cream (don't do that). I started Aldara 5% 2.5 weeks ago, applying 3 days per week. First week nothing, just irritation, itching, but no change. Week 2, some pain came in, minor blisters, and clear fluid discharge. Between week 2 and week 3, there has been a 50% reduction in the area and size of the warts. Very pleased so far. Will report back in another couple of weeks."

• Bar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 8, 2022

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "I got diagnosed with genital warts a few weeks ago. My doctor recommended Aldara. I thought the cost was unbearable for me, but I had to try it out as I had been told it's the best you can have for sensitive areas. I applied as the doctor had recommended, ensuring I maintained cleanliness down there to avoid infection. I had a really bad reaction to it (sores, itching, inflammation, and pain), but I knew I wanted to clear the warts. By the second week, the small warts had cleared, and now I'm only dealing with the warts on my labia minora. This cream is doing wonders. I'd thought my life of intimacy had come to an end, but now I'm hopeful to also clear the virus."

• cbe...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 4, 2022

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "The medication has definitely shrunken the size of my warts, even made most of them disappear. Be very cautious when applying this, only apply to the actual wart, not the skin around the wart. It will cause extreme blistering and pain if it's on healthy skin for too long. If that happens, stop treatment till the blistering goes away and apply a smaller amount directly onto the wart with a Q-tip."

• Geo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 30, 2021

Imiquimod topical for Human Papilloma Virus "Saw the GP about small bumps on my butt. He said they were warts and put DCP on them. They went away after 6 weeks but came back. Then I used Aldara after seeing a dermatologist. The Aldara will cause pain and bleeding after a while, but just keep at it for a few months and the warts will go. They have not come back, and the dermo said they are unlikely to return. The virus supposedly leaves your body after a while, so don’t worry about it. The pain and bleeding are annoying, but better than having warts on my genitals."

• Alw...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 14, 2017

For Human Papilloma Virus "I have had HPV for a couple of years now, and I'm 21 now. My GW signs didn't show until I turned 19. I was dealing with pain from my gastroesophageal reflux disease, feeling hopeless and being embarrassed to go to the doctor. I finally went, and she applied some cream two times. I came to see her, and it did nothing. I was hopeless, embarrassed of my warts because they have raised and are big. I went to her and asked to cut them off. But now I see that if I would have researched more, I wouldn't be going through the pain of getting them poked with burning numbing meds that don't work fully because I could feel her cutting them. It was horrible. I damn near don't want to have sex anymore because of this surgery, smh. I should have just used imiquimod, and now it's been 5 days. I'm healing good."

• Smi...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 6, 2021

For Human Papilloma Virus "The doctor prescribed this to help battle the HPV warts. I have been on this for 1 week, and it has been the longest week of my life. I was told to take it 3x a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday before bed. I made sure to shower before applying it and used Dial soap to make sure no perfumes or other stuff interacted with the cream. By the 2nd day, the pain was unbearable. By the end of the week, I was on the phone with the doctor's office. Even walking is extremely painful... it literally feels as if my skin is burning off. I have never cringed so much in my life..."

• Bra...
• August 7, 2018

For Keratosis "It's a relief to find here that all the side effects others have listed I also am experiencing. I went 7 or 8 days before taking 2 days off. I'm bald and so, for now, the treatment area is all on the top of my head. I have about 30 growing red bumps; the pain and itching are manageable. The worst part is flu-like symptoms, low energy (can barely take care of daily essentials), loss of appetite, and inability to sleep (this side effect just started last night, so hoping it subsides quickly). I'm about 2 weeks in now with 3 or 4 weeks to go. Yes, it's highly unpleasant for many, but still, as others have commented, perhaps the best alternative to lesser effective treatments. BEFORE YOU TAKE THIS MEDICINE: If possible, have someone that will grocery shop for you and walk the dogs, etc. There will be days when you're too weak and nauseated to do this if you're like me."