Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
TACROLIMUS - TOPICAL
(tack-row-LEE-muss)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Protopic
Uses
Tacrolimus (topical) is used to treat a skin condition called eczema (atopic dermatitis) in patients who have not responded well to, or who should not use, other eczema medications (e.g., topical steroids).
How To Use
Wash your hands before and after applying this medication. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area of skin twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Rub the medication into the skin gently and completely. This medication is for use on the skin only. When applying this medication after a shower or bath, make sure your skin is completely dry. Do not bathe, shower, or swim immediately after applying the medication. This could wash it off of the treated area. It is very important to continue using this medication for at least 7 days after your condition starts to improve. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless directed to do so by your doctor. Only the weakest strength product should be used in children 2 to 15 years old. Use of this medication in children less than 2 years of age is not recommended.
Side Effects
Skin burning, itching, or redness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: acne, headache, unusual fatigue, nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: upset stomach, appearance of any skin infections or sores (e.g., chicken pox, shingles, lip sores, tumors, or warts). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: muscle pain, swollen glands (especially in the neck, under the arms, or in the groin area). In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: any skin infections, viral infections (e.g., herpes, mononucleosis), cancer, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, use a sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: other skin products, cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), St John's wort, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), protease inhibitors (e.g., indinavir, ritonavir), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include tremor, diarrhea, blurred vision, dizziness, and nausea.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), with brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) permitted away from light and moisture.
