Treating vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN) or condyloma lesions

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. This means it is an FDA-approved drug used for an unapproved use to treat your disease or condition.

What is Imiquimod (Aldara™) cream?

Aldara™ is an immune modulator. It helps your body 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.