What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Zyclara (Imiquimod)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Your doctor may prescribe Zyclara if you have specific skin conditions such as actinic keratosis (AK) on the face or scalp. AK manifests as rough, scaly patches resulting from prolonged sun exposure and poses a risk of progressing to skin cancer.
Imiquimod modifies the immune response. It stimulates both the innate and adaptive immune systems and induces the release of cytokines like interferon-alpha. These mediators bolster the immune response, aiding in the identification and elimination of abnormal cells, including those characteristic of actinic keratosis.
Fact Table
Formula
C14H16N4
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
~0.9% (topical)
Legal status
Prescription only (?)
Chemical Name
1-(2-methylpropyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinolin-4-amine
Elimination half-life
~30 hours
Dosage (Strength)
2.5%, 3.75%, 5% cream
Pregnancy
Use with caution
Brands
Zyclara, Aldara
Protein binding
~93%
PubChem CID
57469
MedlinePlus
a698010
ChEBI
CHEBI:37980
ATC code
D06BB10
DrugBank
DB00724
KEGG
D08067
Routes of administration
Topical
Directions
Zyclara is applied topically once daily to the affected area.
To treat actinic keratosis, Zyclara is typically applied for two weeks, followed by a two-week break, and then another two-week treatment cycle if necessary.
Wash and dry the area gently and thoroughly before applying Zyclara.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Zyclara is imiquimod.
Interactions
There are no significant drug-drug interactions between Zyclara and other medications
Cautions
Discontinue Zyclara and consult a healthcare provider if severe systemic reactions like allergic hypersensitivity occur. Symptoms include trouble breathing, hives, and swelling of the airway.
You and your doctor should monitor for local skin reactions such as redness, swelling, and erosion, which may necessitate treatment interruption.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of problems with your immune system because Zyclara can worsen these conditions.
Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds during Zyclara use to reduce the risk of increased sunburn susceptibility. Wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen when outdoors.
Side Effects
Adverse reactions to Zyclara include:
- Application site reaction
- Burning sensation
- Cardiac dysrhythmia
- Cerebrovascular accident
- Edematous skin
- Erythema
- Erythema multiforme
- Erythroderma
- Female genital edema
- Headache
- Heart failure
- Immune thrombocytopenia
- Influenza-like illness
- Myocardial infarction
- Peeling of skin
- Pruritus
- Scab of skin
- Skin discharge
- Skin ulcer
- Syncope
- Upper respiratory infection
References
Zyclara [package insert]. Bristol, TN: Graceway; March 2010.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 11615
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