What is Imiquimod?
Imiquimod helps treat infections, such as warts, by destroying diseased cells. It does this by stimulating your immune system to track damaged cells. Plantar warts are commonly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which produces proteins on the outer layer of your skin, usually on your feet.[1]
While warts can go away without treatment, it can take around two years for them to fully heal. Using Imiquimod can help speed up this process and treat them within a few weeks.
Imiquimod is an off-label treatment for warts, meaning itโs not officially licensed to treat them. This doesn’t mean it’s not safe; off-label prescribing is a common practice that can be done when your doctor thinks a certain medication will be safe and suitable for you.
How does Imiquimod work?
Imiquimod helps your immune system find and get rid of bad cells. It does this by tracking cells that are infected or damaged, and supporting the release of molecules like cytokines that help signal your immune system to destroy them. Essentially, it helps your immune system clear infections more effectively.[1]
How long does Imiquimod take to work?
Imiquimod is absorbed slowly through your skin, sometimes taking a few hours to be completely absorbed. Itโs important that you don’t get your feet wet during this time to avoid the cream being washed away.
Plantar warts can take a long time to heal, so it might take a while before you see the results.
The treatment is initially prescribed for six weeks, so by this time, your verruca should have gone. But if it persists, let your doctor know โ they might keep you on the treatment for longer.
What doses of Imiquimod are there?
Imiquimod only comes in a concentration of 5%. Youโll typically apply a thin layer once a day.
How we source info.
When we present you with stats, data, opinion or a consensus, weโll tell you where this came from. And weโll only present data as clinically reliable if itโs come from a reputable source, such as a state or government-funded health body, a peer-reviewed medical journal, or a recognised analytics or data body. Read more in our editorial policy.