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Genital Warts Treatment

admin — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:09:00 +0000

If you have genital warts, no one needs to tell you about how detrimental they can be. Genital warts can be caused by many things, such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, cancer and benign skin tags. Over 90% of genital warts, however, are cause by two strains of HPV. A physician needs to see them and may perform some laboratory analyses to make the diagnosis.

Warts can be treated, even those caused by HPV. Sometimes physicians can focus on the diagnosis of the warts and preventing the spread of the virus, but don’t always prescribe proven remedies that can minimize the warts themselves.

There are two classes of medications you will want to be aware of to treat genital warts. Condylox minimizes genital warts by stopping rapidly dividing cells (antimitotic). This medication can be applied as a local cream and it comes in different strengths. Ask your physician about Condylox and which medication strength may be best for you.

Another class of medication is Aldara, a newer medication. It is an immune response modifier and works by interfering with an indirect method of wart growth, the local cellular consequences of the virus’ presence. This medicine is also applied in a topical cream, so discuss this option with you physicians to see what will work best for you.

Neither Aldara nor Condylox are guaranteed to make your warts completely disappear, but may make a significant impact in their overall size and number. The medications could be prescribed simultaneously, but this is seldom done. Consider trying both of them, separately, for some time to determine which is working better.

Genital Warts FAQs

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:15:00 +0000

Q:	What are genital warts?
A:	Genital warts are also known as venereal warts. They are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.

Q:	How do you get genital warts?
A:	Genital warts are caused by a strain of the human papilloma virus (HPV). You get it from having oral, genital or anal sex with a partner who has genital warts. Once acquired, the virus can generate warts within months of sexual contact or even years later.

Q:	How do genital warts feel?
A:	In some people, genital warts aren’t visible and have no symptoms. But most people experience burning or itching in the genital area, and there may be pain or bleeding with intercourse.

Q:	What do they look like?
A:	Individual genital warts look like small, flesh-colored bumps. When they grow in a cluster, they can have a rough-edged, cauliflower shape. In women, genital warts can grow on the vulva, the walls of the vagina, the skin between the genitals and the anus, and the neck of the uterus. In men, they grow on the penis, the scrotum or the anus. Genital warts can infect the mouth and/or throat in cases of oral sex.

Q:	How are genital warts treated?
A:	Sometimes genital warts go away by themselves, but often treatment is needed. The first step is to see a doctor if you think you may have genital warts, or if your sexual partner has them. Once the diagnosis of genital warts is confirmed, either topical treatments or surgery will be recommended.

	Topical treatments: Aldara (imiquimod), Podofilox (condylox) and Trichloroacetic acid (TCA).
	Aldara is a prescription cream applied to the genital warts. It builds up your immune system’s ability to combat the warts. Podofilox destroys the genital wart tissue and can irritate surrounding skin so must be applied with caution. TCA is a strong chemical treatment to burn the warts off and must be applied by a doctor.
	Don’t use over-the-counter creams or medications – they may cause burning and pain.)

	Surgical treatments: Large genital warts and those that don’t respond to topical medications require surgery. These options include: freezing with liquid nitrogen, burning them off, surgical removal, and laser therapy.

Q:	What about this new drug called Gardasil?
A:	Gardasil is a new vaccine (FDA approved in 2006) that protects against the strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer and genital warts. It is recommended for girls and women aged 9 to 26 and is most effective when administered before they become sexually active. It does not work as a treatment once you have HPV or genital warts.

Q:	What products does eDrugstore.md sell for the treatment of genital warts?
A:	We sell Aldara cream, one of the most commonly prescribed treatments, which clears up genital warts in as little as four weeks. Aldara can be applied by the patient at home and causes very little or no discomfort in most users. Aldara doesn’t destroy healthy skin although it may cause some drying, itching or peeling. Additional information can be found on the Aldara FAQ.
	Learn the facts about Aldara topical cream for genital warts.

Q:	Do genital warts eventually disappear completely?
A:	The warts themselves go away with treatment, but the virus that causes genital warts remains in your system and could lead to future outbreaks requiring repeat treatment of the warts.

Q:	I’m embarrassed about having genital warts. Do I have to see a doctor or can I treat them myself?
A:	You need to consult with a doctor in order to confirm the diagnosis and to discuss the appropriate treatment. You will also want to discuss the related health issues connected to the HPV virus (especially women) and how to prevent spreading genital warts to others. Another option is to use an online pharmacy such as Edrugstore.md

Q:	What are the health risks associated with HPV?
A:	Most cases of HPV do NOT lead to cervical cancer, however it is a possible complication for women with certain strains of HPV. If you have HPV, be sure to get regular Pap tests and pelvic exams. These can help detect cervical cancer at an early stage. A Pap test every 3 to 6 months may be recommended.

Q:	Is there any way to prevent getting genital warts or passing them to my partner?
A:	Because genital warts spread via skin to skin contact, using a condom helps prevent spreading the infection IF the condom covers the warts. But warts in places not covered by the condom can be spread. So it’s best to avoid sexual contact completely when genital warts are visible on you or your partner and wait until they have healed.

Q:	How can I treat genital warts safely when I’m pregnant?
A:	Some treatments for genital warts can cause birth defects so be sure to tell your health care provider that you are pregnant so a safe treatment can be prescribed. Very rarely, children of women with genital warts can be born with throat warts, which can be dangerous and require surgery.

Genital Herpes FAQ and Information

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:12:00 +0000

Q:	What is herpes?
A:	Herpes is the name for a family of 80 known viruses. Eight of them cause disease in people, the most common being herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2). HSV1 usually occurs above the waist (eg: cold sores) and HSV2 usually occurs below the waist (eg: genital herpes)

Q:	What does genital herpes look and feel like?
A:	The symptoms of genital herpes include clusters of sores, blisters, bumps and rashes in the genital area. Other symptoms may include burning during urination, tenderness, tingling, swollen lymph nodes, or soreness in the genital area.

Q:	Can I spread herpes if I don’t have any blisters or sores?
A:	Yes. In fact, up to 70% of people with genital herpes caught it from a partner without any symptoms. And many people who carry the virus haven’t yet had an outbreak so they don’t even know they have genital herpes.

Q:	How do I get genital herpes?
A:	You get genital herpes from a sexual partner who has the virus. It can be transmitted even if your partner doesn’t currently have visible signs of the virus. The virus penetrates the body through the skin, infecting the cells, which then reproduce copies of the virus. The genital herpes virus stays in your body for life. There is plenty of additional information at the Sexual Health web page.

Q:	How can I avoid giving genital herpes to my partner?
A:	You can reduce the risk of transmission if you:
	Avoid kissing or having sexual intercourse when the sores are present. Use condoms even when there are no lesions present. Avoid touching herpes sores. Wash your hands well after touching the sores. Don’t touch your face or genitals after touching the herpes lesions as they can spread to other parts of your body. Talk to your doctor about prescription Valtrex , which may lessen the risk of transmitting genital herpes. Learn more about Valtrex at the Valtrex FAQ.
Q:	Can medication prevent the spread of herpes?
A:	No drug has been proven to prevent the spread of herpes infection to other people. You or your partner should always use condoms or avoid sexual contact during a herpes outbreak.

Q:	How often will I have an outbreak of genital herpes?
A:	Everyone is different. But on average, most patients have 3 or 4 outbreaks a year. Most people eventually have fewer and less severe outbreaks as their immunity builds up over time.

Q:	What causes genital herpes to flare up into an outbreak?
A:	The medical community doesn’t know exactly what causes a recurrence, but many people with the virus cite causes such as stress, menstruation, skin irritation from sunburn, sunlight, fatigue, diet, surgery, and vigorous sexual intercourse.

Q:	How common is genital herpes?
A:	At least 50 million Americans have the virus that causes genital herpes and up to half a million new cases are diagnosed each year.

Q:	If I think I have genital herpes, do I have to get tested?
A:	Yes. Because once it’s confirmed, there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of genital herpes on your life. Prescription medication can relieve the uncomfortable symptoms and shorten outbreaks or even suppress them. Safer sex can prevent the spread of genital herpes. So talking to your doctor can help you decide how to treat your infection and prevent your partner from catching it. You should also try ordering a herpes medications from a reputable online pharmacy.

Q:	If I am pregnant and have genital herpes, will my baby get it?
A:	Women with genital herpes have healthy babies all the time. But if you become infected with herpes while pregnant or if you have an outbreak at the time of delivery, you may transmit the infection to the baby. So take precautions to ensure you don’t get herpes during pregnancy. If you do have genital herpes and become pregnant, it’s very important to discuss it with your doctor so measures can be taken that will protect the baby from infection.

Genital Herpes and Genital Warts – Information and Treatments

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:02:00 +0000

Sexually transmitted infections like genital herpes and genital warts carry more than just a health risk… they also carry a social stigma. Let’s face it. It’s hard to talk about them openly.

That’s why we’ve compiled this Sexual Health Information Center. It’s a place where you can come to learn the facts about genital herpes and genital warts in complete privacy. And where you can discreetly order treatments online, from the privacy of your own home.

Genital Herpes
Millions of people have genital herpes, and millions more acquire the virus every year. Which means your odds of acquiring the infection may be going up, unless you protect yourself and your sexual partner.

To learn more about genital herpes, visit the Genital Herpes FAQ page. It’s a great place to quickly learn the basics about an increasingly common infection. That way, when you see your doctor you can discuss genital herpes from a position of knowledge and jointly come up with a plan of action.

Valtrex for Genital Herpes:
Already know you have genital herpes? Want to know more about treatments? Prescription Valtrex is an oral tablet that not only reduces the number of outbreaks but may lower the risk of passing on the virus to your sexual partner.

Get more information on Valtrex and order Valtrex here.

Acyclovir for Genital Herpes:
Learn about Acyclovir here and how it works to treat the discomfort of genital herpes.

Genital Warts

Genital warts are the outward sign that you have acquired a strain of the HPV virus. With increasing concern about HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) and its connection to cervical cancer, it’s understandable that people want to avoid getting genital warts.

But what if you’ve already got them? How can you tell? What should you do about it? And how can you protect your sexual partner?

Click over to our Genital Warts FAQ page for an easy-to-read primer that will answer your questions.

To learn about a prescription medication that treats genital warts, see Aldara topical cream.

How eDrugstore.md Can Help
The products we sell for genital herpes (Valtrex, Acyclovir) and genital warts (Aldara) are FDA-approved prescription medications made in the US and dispensed by US licensed pharmacists. So you’re getting the genuine article when you order from eDrugstore.md.

And if you want to talk directly to us about the pain relief products or any other medications you see on this site, feel free to call toll free: 1-866-690-2007. The lines are open 24/7 to serve you.

Valtrex FAQ: Common Questions and Answers about Valtrex

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:59:00 +0000

Q: What is Valtrex?

A: Valtrex is a prescription antiviral drug that targets the herpes virus. Valtrex can help minimize outbreaks of genital herpes and reduce the risk of spreading genital herpes to others. In addition, Valtrex is used to promote healing of shingles (herpes zoster) and cold sores (herpes labialis).

Q: What is the active ingredient in Valtrex?

A: The active ingredient in Valtrex is valacyclovir hydrochloride, which interferes with reproduction of the herpes virus, thereby causing the virus to become inactive.

Q: Will Valtrex cure my genital herpes?

A: No. Valtrex does not cure genital herpes. In fact, there is no known cure for genital herpes. However, Valtrex can greatly reduce the frequency of genital herpes outbreaks. During an outbreak of genital herpes, Valtrex limits the ability of the virus to reproduce and helps minimize symptoms of the disease.

Q: Can Valtrex help me avoid passing genital herpes to my partner?

A: When used daily (as opposed to only when an outbreak occurs), Valtrex can reduce the risk of spreading genital herpes to your partner. In conjunction with a daily dose of Valtrex, always use the following safe sex practices to minimize the risk of spreading genital herpes:

Always use condoms during sexual contact.
Avoid sexual contact with your partner during an outbreak of genital herpes.

Q: What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Valtrex?

A: Make sure to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider before taking Valtrex, including the following:

All drug allergies, especially to any ingredient contained in Valtrex.
All other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
If you have had any organ transplant, bone marrow transplant, or kidney transplant.
If you have kidney disease or kidney problems.
If you are HIV-positive or if you have AIDS.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are 65 years or older.

Q: How should I take Valtrex?

A: Observe the following precautions while taking Valtrex:

Only take Valtrex under the supervision of your healthcare provider, whether you are taking it for genital herpes, cold sores or shingles.
Before you start taking Valtrex, read the patient information that comes with the medicine.
To treat outbreaks of genital herpes, start taking Valtrex at the first signs of an outbreak. Valtrex may not be as effective if you wait more than 72 hours after an outbreak occurs.
While using Valtrex to treat an outbreak of genital herpes, follow the entire course of the prescription even if the symptoms disappear.
When taking Valtrex to suppress or control outbreaks of genital herpes, take the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.
Take Valtrex orally with a full glass of water. It may be taken with or without food as directed by your doctor.

Q: What are the possible side effects of Valtrex?

A: Many people who use Valtrex to treat genital herpes, cold sores or shingles do not experience any serious side effects.

Some of the more common Valtrex side effects include: headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, sore throat and stomach pain. These Valtrex side effects are typically mild and normally do not result in the patient discontinuing treatment.
Some HIV-positive adults have reported headache, fatigue, and rash.
A few women have reported painful menstrual periods while using Valtrex.
A small number of elderly patients and patients with kidney problems have reported kidney failure or nervous system problems after taking Valtrex.

If you develop any Valtrex side effects that concern you, seek medical attention immediately.

Q: Are there possible allergic reactions to Valtrex?

A: If you are allergic to acyclovir or to any other ingredient contained in Valtrex, make sure you inform your doctor before taking Valtrex. A very serious allergic reaction to Valtrex is unlikely, but talk to your doctor immediately if one develops. Possible symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

Difficulty breathing.
Rash, itching, or hives.
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face.
Severe dizziness.

Q: Are there any drugs I should avoid while taking Valtrex?

A: Before you begin taking Valtrex, inform your doctor about all other prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking, including herbal supplements. Valtrex side effects may be aggravated and could become more dangerous if the drug is used along with probenecidor cimetidine. Valtrex could also interact with medications used to treat kidney problems. Speak with your doctor before taking Valtrex if you are taking any such drugs or if you have a kidney problem.

Q: Is it safe to take Valtrex when I’m pregnant?

A: Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and wish to take Valtrex. It is important to weigh the potential benefits of the treatment against any risks and possible Valtrex side effects.

Q: Is it safe to take Valtrex when I’m breastfeeding?

A: Valtrex passes into breast milk. Consult with you doctor about breastfeeding before taking this medication.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Valtrex?

A: If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose of Valtrex, skip the missed one and resume your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose of Valtrex without consulting with your doctor.

Q: What should I do in case of an accidental overdose of Valtrex?

A: If you suspect an overdose of Valtrex, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Possible symptoms of overdose include a change in urine amount, sluggishness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

Q: How should I store Valtrex?

A: Store Valtrex in an airtight container at room temperature. As with any medication, keep Valtrex away from children and pets.

Q: How can I buy Valtrex discreetly, without embarrassment?

A: Internet pharmacies like eDrugstore.md offer a private and convenient way to buy Valtrex online. Visit the Valtrex product information page on eDrugstore.md for information about pricing and ordering.

For more information regarding genital herpes and other sexual health matters, visit the Sexual Health Online Knowledge Base at eDrugstore.md.

Acyclovir FAQs: Common Questions and Answers about Acyclovir

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 10:26:00 +0000

Q: What is acyclovir?

A: Acyclovir is a prescription antiviral drug that targets the herpes virus. Acyclovir can help minimize outbreaks of genital herpes and reduce the risk of spreading genital herpes to others. In addition, acyclovir promotes healing of chicken pox, shingles (herpes zoster), and cold sores (herpes labialis).

Q: What different formulations of acyclovir are available?

A: Acyclovir is sometimes sold under the brand name Zovirax. Acyclovir capsules, liquid, and tablets are used to treat genital herpes. Acyclovir ointment is prescribed to treat initial outbreaks of genital herpes and some herpes simplex infections of the skin and mucous membranes. Acyclovir cream is prescribed for cold sores on the lips and face only.

Q: Will Acyclovir cure my genital herpes?

A: No. Acyclovir does not cure genital herpes. In fact, there is no known cure for genital herpes. However, acyclovir can reduce the frequency of genital herpes outbreaks. During an outbreak of genital herpes, acyclovir provides pain relief and speeds up healing.

Q: Can acyclovir help me avoid giving genital herpes to my partner?

A: When used daily (as opposed to only when an outbreak occurs), acyclovir can reduce the risk of spreading genital herpes to your partner. Along with a daily dose of acyclovir, always use latex condoms to minimize the risk of spreading genital herpes. To reduce the chance of infecting your partner, avoid intercourse and other sexual contact while you have sores or any other symptoms of a genital herpes outbreak.

Q: What should I discuss with my doctor before taking acyclovir?

A: Make sure to discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider before taking acyclovir, including the following:

Any drug allergies.
All other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
If you have had an organ, bone marrow, or kidney transplant.
If you have kidney disease or kidney problems.
If you are HIV-positive or have AIDS.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you are 65 or older.

Q: How should I take acyclovir?

A: Observe the following precautions while taking acyclovir:

Use acyclovir only under the supervision of a doctor, whether you have genital herpes, cold sores, or shingles.
Before you start taking acyclovir, read the patient information that comes with the medicine. However, patient information provided by the manufacturer is not a substitute for the advice of a licensed physician or pharmacist.
To treat outbreaks of genital herpes, start taking acyclovir at the first sign of an outbreak (tingling, burning, or blisters).
While using acyclovir to treat an outbreak of genital herpes, follow the entire course of the prescription, even if the symptoms disappear.
Take acyclovir tablets orally, with a full glass of water. Acyclovir tablets can be taken with or without food, as directed by your doctor.
Drink plenty of fluids while you are on acyclovir.

Q: Are there any other drugs I should avoid while taking acyclovir?

A: Before taking acyclovir, inform your doctor about all other prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking, including herbal supplements. Acyclovir side effects may be aggravated and could become dangerous if you take it along with:

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
Interferon (Roferon-A)
Probenecid (Benemid)
Zidovudine (Retrovir)

Q: Are there any activities I should avoid while taking acyclovir?

A: Avoid the following activities while taking acyclovir to treat an outbreak of genital herpes:

Driving or using heavy machinery. Although uncommon, acyclovir may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution while engaging in these activities or others that require high levels of alertness.
Alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol while using acyclovir may increase the risk of dizziness.
Sexual contact. During an outbreak of genital herpes, acyclovir may not prevent the spread of infection to your partner. Patients are advised to avoid sexual contact while using acyclovir to treat genital herpes during an active outbreak.

Q: Are there any acyclovir side effects I should be aware of?

A: Many people who use acyclovir to treat genital herpes do not experience serious side effects. The most commonly reported acyclovir side effects are headache, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. These acyclovir side effects are typically mild, and normally do not result in the patient discontinuing treatment.

Q: What are the possible allergic reactions to acyclovir?

A: If you think you may be allergic to acyclovir, make sure you inform your doctor before taking this medication. A very serious allergic reaction to acyclovir is improbable. Possible symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

Difficulty breathing.
Hives.
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face.
Severe dizziness.

Q: Is it safe to take acyclovir when I’m pregnant?

A: Acyclovir is not likely to harm an unborn baby. However, if you are pregnant, talk to your doctor first before taking acyclovir.

Q: Is it safe to take acyclovir when I’m breastfeeding?

A: Acyclovir passes into breast milk. Consult with you doctor about breastfeeding before taking this medication.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of acyclovir?

A: Acyclovir works best when the amount of drug in your system stays at a relatively constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose of acyclovir, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless your doctor advises you to do so.

Q: What should I do in case of an accidental overdose of acyclovir?

A: If you suspect an overdose of acyclovir, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Possible symptoms of overdose include agitation, decrease in urine production, lethargy, coma, and seizures.

Q: How should I store acyclovir?

A: Store acyclovir in an airtight container at room temperature. As with any medication, keep acyclovir away from children and pets.

Q: How can I buy acyclovir discreetly?

A: Internet pharmacies, like eDrugstore.md, offer a discreet and convenient way to buy acyclovir online at substantially lower prices than brick and mortar drug stores. Visit the Acyclovir product information page on eDrugstore.md for information about the product and to order it online.

For more information on genital herpes and how acyclovir can help, visit the online knowledge base at eDrugstore.md.

Aldara FAQs: Common Questions And Answers About The Genital Wart Treatment

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:27:00 +0000

Q: What is Aldara?

A: Aldara is a medication used to treat a number of skin conditions and diseases, including genital warts, certain skin growths and a particular form of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma).

Q: Will Aldara cure my genital warts?

A: No, Aldara is not a cure for genital warts and new warts can appear even while you are using Aldara. It is a topical cream that helps to speed up healing of infected skin cells.

Q: How does Aldara work as a genital wart treatment?

A: Aldara cream stimulates the immune system to target the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that causes genital warts. It helps the body’s immune system fight the infection.

Q: What is the active ingredient in Aldara?

A: The active ingredient in Aldara is imiquimod, an immune response modifier.

Q: What other genital wart treatments are available?

A: Genital warts are one of the most common types of sexually transmitted diseases and are highly contagious. Genital wart treatments generally fall into one of two categories – medication and surgery.

Medication. Some of the more common, topical genital wart treatments are:
- Aldara (imiquimod), which works by boosting the immune system’s ability to fight genital warts.
- Podofilox, which works by breaking down genital wart tissue.
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a chemical treatment that burns off genital warts.
- Medications can easily be obtained through Edrugstore.md as an online prescription

Surgery. In cases where genital warts are large and/or when genital warts do not respond well to medication, the following surgical options may be considered:
- Cryotherapy is a procedure in which the wart area is frozen with liquid nitrogen, creating a blister. When the skin around the wound heals, the wart becomes part of the dead skin and falls off.
- Laser treatment involves using a laser beam to burn off the genital warts.
- Electrocautery uses an electrified probe to destroy or burn off genital wart tissue.
- Surgical excision is a more traditional procedure in which genital warts are surgically removed from the skin.

Q: How should Aldara be applied as a genital wart treatment?

A: Aldara cream should be used three times a week until the genital wart disappears, for a maximum of 16 weeks. Apply Aldara directly on the genital wart area only. Aldara should be applied in a thin layer and rubbed in until the medication is completely absorbed. Aldara cream should be applied just before normal sleeping hours and should be left on the genital wart area for at least six hours. Wash your hands before and after applying Aldara. Aldara should be washed off with a mild soap solution after 6 to 10 hours.

Make sure that Aldara cream does not touch your lips, eyes or nose. Your healthcare provider should show you how to properly apply Aldara to the genital wart area.

Q: What else should I know about using Aldara as a genital wart treatment?

A: Some patients may experience skin irritation while using Aldara. If this occurs, discontinue the treatment until the irritation goes away. In addition, keep the following in mind while using Aldara as a genital wart treatment:

Apply enough Aldara cream to cover the genital warts only. Excessive use of Aldara is not recommended.
Do not use Aldara if you are recovering from any surgery or if you are applying any other medicine to the skin.
Aldara has not yet been scientifically proven to work on patients whose immune systems are suppressed. Aldara cream should be used cautiously by individuals who suffer from autoimmune diseases.
Before using Aldara as a genital wart treatment, consult a physician and provide your complete medical history, including any other health conditions you may have. Make sure to indicate any other medications – prescription as well as over-the-counter – you may be taking. Inform your doctor if you’ve suffered from external genital warts in the past. Aldara must not be applied until your skin has healed from any other skin condition.
Avoid exposure to sunlight as much as possible while using Aldara.
For men who have genital warts on an uncircumcised penis, the foreskin must be pulled back and thoroughly cleaned before applying Aldara.
After applying Aldara, do not cover the genital wart area with an airtight bandage. Cotton underwear or a cotton gauze dressing may be used to cover the area.
If you forget to apply Aldara, put it on as soon as you remember and then keep to the regular schedule. Do not apply extra Aldara if you miss a dose by accident.
Keep Aldara cream away from children.

Q: Why should I avoid going out in the sun while using Aldara?

A: Aldara makes the skin more photosensitive and therefore more susceptible to sunburn. It is best to avoid both direct and indirect sunlight while using Aldara. Avoid exposure to artificial UV rays as well. Use sunblock and wear protective clothing when you go out. Those suffering from sunburn should discontinue or avoid using Aldara as a genital wart treatment until the sunburn heals.

Q: What are the possible side effects of using Aldara as a genital wart treatment?

A: Aldara can be applied easily and generally causes little discomfort. The most commonly reported side effects of using Aldara cream as a genital wart treatment are skin reactions. These include:

itching
redness
peeling skin
swelling
edema (swelling due to excess fluid)
ulceration
soreness

On rare occasions, Aldara users can also experience flu-like symptoms or an upset stomach. Contact your doctor if you have any unpleasant Aldara side effects.

Q: Are there any special precautions that women should take if they intend to use Aldara for genital warts?

A: Yes, women who use Aldara to treat genital warts should make sure the cream does not touch the inner vaginal tissue. This may cause burning, severe skin irritation and/or pain while urinating. Also, Aldara may be harmful to an unborn baby and could pass into the milk of lactating mothers. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and are considering using Aldara, inform your doctor.

For more information about Aldara, other genital wart treatments, and other sexual health matters, visit our Sexual Health Articles database.

Acyclovir: A Bedtime Story

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:14:00 +0000

"Acyclovir." Ron studied the label and realized he had completely forgotten how to pronounce it. Acyclovir. As if it mattered. The pills rattled in their little container, sounding like stones, a tiny avalanche of memory weights holding him down. Because you were stupid, he told himself. Because you put your faith in someone you thought you could trust–

No. No, this is on you, he reminded himself. It was your trust. Your judgment. Your problem. He read the label again: Acyclovir. Ay-SIGH-cloe-veer. Like a chant going through his head. Acyclovir, Acyclovir… permanent part of your life now.

At thirty years old, he thought he was driving through life with a good grip on the steering wheel, revving away, going far. He was already the head of his division at the advertising agency and waiting for the loan for the condo he wanted to buy with Nancy, and then came the shock.

(Tiny bottle rolling in his hands. Acyclovir. "Take 3 times daily…")

His regular doctor was his brother-in-law, his sister’s husband. Jeez, he couldn’t go to HIM with this problem. So he had gone to a downtown clinic, where they gave him the results, and it had felt like a hangman’s trapdoor opening up underneath him. "You have genital herpes." He had felt a rush of shame, wondering how was he going to tell Nancy and – and–

Fool. Because he did not cheat. He did not play around. There was only one inescapable conclusion. It was her. She had cried and said it just happened the one time, it meant nothing, but he waited in the kitchen while she packed. She gave him the line that she would always love him, a note that rang like tin in his ears. He stared at her in incredulous disbelief as she closed the door behind her.

The irony, he thought, is people won’t know it was her. They’ll assume I’m the irresponsible one. They’ll assume I’m some kind of male slut.

He wound up getting the Acyclovir not from the clinic but from a true angel of mercy.

Acyclovir and a New Way of Thinking

He began talking to her months ago, a conversation that felt like a movie cliche. The balcony of Megan’s apartment was one over, one up on the brownstone crossword of their building. She had thrown up her hands in frustration over her plants, and it became a running gag between them. She sucked at growing plants, which prompted his gentle but relentless teasing. "How can you be a third-year resident, and you can’t keep a fern alive?" he joked.

"Oh, shut up!" she laughed. "Not all of us were raised on farms!" She rushed into her apartment and came out with two "paddles" (a whisk and a serving spoon), saying she was going to shock them back to life. He laughed. She laughed. They became friends. Advice on plant food and light exposure had turned to friendly arguments over who was best for the Democrats and did he happen to see that documentary at the Odeon? Maybe if he had been single months ago, he might have asked her out. She was a brunette with a few extra pounds but shapely, nice smile, big brown eyes.

There was something else, something darker… You don’t meet too many girls who walk with a limp.

Sitting on the balcony in his deck chair, still holding the bottle of Acyclovir, he remembered her explanation one day. Given simply, deadpan voice, the eyes not looking away, very sure because they had seen enough and could look at anything now. "My ex liked to break things when he got angry. He got angry a lot with me."

He said he was sorry, secretly wondering how a person who makes it through med school, who’s clearly intelligent, allows their self-esteem to erode like clay washed away by a steady tide. Yeah, well, there are all kinds of blindness, aren’t there? We can delude ourselves to avoid seeing the betrayals, big and small.

(Acyclovir, read the label. "Take tablets 3 times daily for…")

He had been stupid again. He wasn’t raised religious, but he had the irrational urge to punish himself. He couldn’t punish Nancy – Nancy was gone. So he was left to stew in his own loneliness and self-loathing, wondering how the hell do you explain this the next time you meet someone special? More horrifying was the thought that he simply wouldn’t. Ever. Meet. Anyone.

So he had only half-listened as the clinic doctor had explained his condition was manageable, that there were treatments – he might have even mentioned Acyclovir among them, but Ron didn’t recall. He had just stashed away the aldara prescription without filling it and that was weeks ago, and now he didn’t even know where it was. Too bad. Suffer. You live with it, jerk.

Until he was sitting on Megan’s balcony, sipping Kenyan coffee, and as he moved to check one of her plants, he made a deep, hissing intake of breath over pain. Sores. She asked what was the problem, he said it didn’t matter, he had a doctor, but she saw through that one easily. She wouldn’t let the matter drop.

She was gentle. She was professional. There was not a whiff of eroticism, hell, there couldn’t be as he let down his pants and underwear and sat on the edge of a table – vulnerable, ashamed. Not the way he wanted any woman to see him, even if she was a doctor. She had a pair of latex gloves from work and inspected the sores. God, he hadn’t cried in front of a woman since Dad died.

"I’m writing you a prescription for Acyclovir," she said, nodding that he could put his pants back on. "You can take Acyclovir in tablets, capsules or liquid, but you should be okay with the tablets. And Acyclovir is a lot more convenient and less messy than creams. The creams can sometimes cause itching, burning or dryness."

"Look, uh… You’re a good friend. I want you to know I didn’t get this from…"

She snapped off the gloves and put a hand on his shoulder. "Ron. Focus. Acyclovir. You might experience some side effects, but they tend to be mild. You should tell your regular doctor or online pharmacy you’re taking this and let him know about your condition."

"Okay, thanks," he muttered. "Look, I want to explain–"

"You don’t have to," she said with a gentle smile. "One: your apartment’s not that far away, and I heard the argument. Two: this is not about being a good or bad person. You got a disease and however you got this, you have a treatment option: Acyclovir."

He went to the pharmacy later that afternoon for the Acyclovir and then stared at the bottle as a realization dawned on him. Slowly. That for every moment of despair he had faced alone, there were infinite possibilities for compassion and relief, and yes, these depended, too, on judgment, on choosing who to talk to. But the odds… the odds were in his favor. You are more than this problem, he told himself. People can be infinitely kinder than their failings and trespasses, and even foolish Nancy was still more than just her betrayal.

Can’t forgive her, but you can let go of the anger. You can take your Acyclovir. You can get on with your life.

When he did ask Megan to dinner, knowing he was taking a risk with their friendship, she leaned in and kissed him. "You already know I’ve been stupid," he said shyly. "Okay, not me, but I’m paying for someone else’s mistake…"

She shushed him and said in a soft voice full of meaning. "I got news for you, honey. Doctors can be stupid, too." But I have full trust in Edrugstores doctors.

It was not all they had to share, but maybe it was good that they did. He took his Acyclovir that evening and thought for a long time about common experiences, his sexual health and tender threads, watching her sleep…

Did Your Prince Charming Turn Out to Be a Frog? Kiss Genital Warts Goodbye with Aldara

admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:02:00 +0000

Got a case of genital warts? If so, you’re not alone. Genital warts are spreading at a faster rate than any other STD. While that’s not comforting news, there is something you can do to stop the pain, discomfort, and embarrassing outbreaks. The solution is a topical cream called Aldara.

Aldara cream works by pumping up the body’s immune system. In the medical community it’s referred to as an "immune response modifier". Call it what you like, Aldara works. By first building and strengthening your immune system, Aldara can then wipe out cells plagued by genital warts.

Although Aldara is not a complete cure for genital warts, it is very effective in healing them when an outbreak occurs, allowing you to get on with your life. Sure there are other ways to treat genital warts, such as laser surgery or by freezing them off, but these methods can be costly, uncomfortable, and may require numerous visits to your doctor’s office.

Aldara cream allows you to safely treat your condition from the comfort and privacy of home, and can be easily obtained from a reputable online pharmacy.

What Causes Genital Warts?

Genital warts are the result of a virus called HPV- the human papilloma virus. Once the virus invades your body, it’s there for good. Aldara cannot destroy HPV but instead works to alleviate the annoying symptoms.

Whenever the warts are present, you’re more likely to spread the HPV virus to your partner. During this highly contagious time, it’s important to restrain from any sexual contact and continue to treat the genital warts with Aldara. Even though Aldara can heal your skin, it does not lessen your chances of spreading the virus.

Is It Safe to Use Aldara Long-Term?

Yes, it is. Unlike some prescriptions, Aldara doesn’t have a long list of bothersome side effects. In fact, Aldara can safely be used by most patients whenever a case of genital warts occurs. Just be sure to observe the affected area after the first few applications of Aldara. If any skin sensitivities occur, it is best to inform your doctor.

The most common side effect of Aldara is redness where the warts appear. Other side effects include: itching, peeling, flaking, and inflammation surrounding the genital warts. If symptoms are severe, you may have a hypersensitivity to the ingredients in Aldara.

Sunlight sensitivity can also occur while using Aldara cream. If your skin becomes sunburned after minimal exposure, it is best to wear protective clothing or avoid the sun during peak hours when using Aldara.

Aldara can also lessen the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms. This is another reason to avoid sexual activity when the warts are present. Not only are you more likely to spread HPV but there is a greater risk of becoming pregnant too.

Healing time for genital warts can vary greatly among patients. The average recovery time with Aldara is about ten weeks. Some patients using Aldara have reported results in as little as four weeks, while it can take up to sixteen weeks for stubborn cases of genital warts to disappear.

Whatever your reaction time to Aldara, it’s important to apply the cream on a consistent basis. Missing a treatment or only applying the ointment sporadically can lead to a longer recovery time or less optimal results.

How Often Should I Apply Aldara Cream?

Aldara topical cream is most often used three times per week to heal genital warts. It is most effective when applied on a regular basis. Be sure to apply Aldara cream every other day for best results.

Rub Aldara onto the genital warts before bedtime until the cream is no longer visible. Allow at least six hours of rest for the healing to occur. Aldara can easily be washed off in the morning with warm water and soap. Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.

It’s important to note that Aldara is used strictly for external genital warts and perianal warts. Do not use Aldara to treat any type of internal genital warts. Doing so can cause serious skin reactions.

Aldara and Other Skin Disorders

Besides eliminating nasty genital warts, Aldara is used to treat other skin disorders such as actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma.

Actinic keratosis can occur when the skin is damaged from prolonged and repeated sun exposure. The end result is scaly growths on the skin that usually erupt in areas receiving direct sunlight exposure. The growths can appear in various shapes and may grow up to an inch in diameter. Actinic keratosis is more prevalent among fair skinned individuals. If left untreated, actinic keratosis can lead to skin cancer in some patients.

Superficial basal cell carcinoma or sBCC is the most common type of skin cancer today. sBCC is caused by exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or by indoor tanning booths. Identifying sBCC lesions can be tricky since the sores vary greatly in appearance. If you suspect you may have sBCC, you should first contact a dermatologist who can properly diagnose your condition.

Your dermatologist can suggest the proper application frequency when using Aldara to treat actinic keratosis or superficial basal cell carcinoma. How often you need to apply Aldara and the length of use will depend on the severity of your skin disorder.

Order Aldara Cream from a Licensed Online Pharmacy

If you’re considering Aldara cream to treat genital warts or some other type of skin disorder, you can safely place your order with edrugstore.MD Our highly trained staff can answer any questions or concerns you may have about using Aldara.

We also have an

Aldara FAQ page

that contains the most common questions pertaining to Aldara. Our

health articles section

is another valuable resource for learning more facts about Aldara cream. Why not visit us today for more information? The only thing you have to lose is your genital warts.