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Treating vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) or condyloma lesions

Patient Education
Last reviewed

What is 1% Fluorouracil (5-FU) (Fluoroplex™)?

1 % 5-FU cream is used on the skin to treat pre-cancerous and cancerous skin growths. It is a topical chemotherapy cream. It blocks the growth of fast-growing abnormal skin cells where it is applied.

This is an “off label use” for this medicine. An FDA-approved drug used for an unapproved use is called an “off-label” use to treat your disease or condition.

What is Imiquimod (Aldara™) cream?

Aldara™ is an immune modulator. It helps your body to fight the virus that can cause abnormal cells. It is used to treat genital warts. This medicine is also an “off-label” use.

How are the creams used vaginally?

At bedtime:

  1. Wash your hands.
  2. Cover the vulvar skin with either white petrolatum (Vaseline®) or zinc oxide ointment.
  3. Insert the cream with a vaginal applicator as ordered.
  4. Wash your hands after using the cream.

In the morning:

  1. Shower or bathe in warm water to remove any cream.
  2. Cover the vulvar skin with white petrolatum (Vaseline®) ointment.

How often should I use the medicine?

Your provider will give you instructions to follow in this format:
At bedtime ___ days of the week for ___ weeks.

Do not:

  • Use the cream during your period
  • Use tanning beds
    • Limit exposure so you do not get a burn from the cream.
  • Have intercourse for 2 days after using the cream
  • Use the medicine if you are pregnant.
    • Use an effective birth control while using this medicine.

Call your providers office if you:

  • Have pain or burning in the vulvar or vaginal area
  • Have pain or burning with urination
  • Are not able to urinate
  • Have blisters or sores in the vulvar or vaginal area

Follow-up appointments

You must keep your follow-up visits to be sure the cream is treating your lesions.