Generic Name: pimecrolimus topical
(PIH meh crow lih mus TAH pih kal)
Typical Brand Names: Elidel
What Is It Used For?
Elidel is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, commonly
known as eczema.
How Is It Used?
A thin layer of Elidel cream is applied to the affected skin twice
in a day; rub it gently once you have applied it. Elidel may be
used on all skin surfaces, including the head and neck. Elidel
should be used twice daily for as long as signs and symptoms persist.
Avoid the application once you get the desired result, if the
symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks, the patient should be re-evaluated.
The safety of Elidel Cream under occlusion, which may promote
systemic exposure, has not been evaluated. Elidel cream should
not be used with occlusive dressings.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
The most familiar side effect of Elidel is the feeling of warmth
or burning at the applied area; this is temporary and ends up
in a few days. But if it continues for more than a week consult
your doctor. Other common side effects include headache, and with
long-term intermittent use, common cold/stuffy nose, influenza,
sore throat, fever, viral infection, and cough.
In certain cases Elidel has been responsible for herpes skin
infections (like cold sores, chicken pox, or shingles), warts,
or swollen lymph nodes (glands). Consult your doctor if you are
pregnant because Elidel comes in the FDA pregnancy category C
drugs. This means that the effect of it on an unborn baby is not
yet justified.
Is It Safe?
Its pretty much safe except for the ones given below, who are
advised to let their doctors know that they have: liver or kidney
disease, have diabetes, suffer from seizures, or suffer from suicidal
thoughts. Babies exposed to Elidel during the third trimester
of pregnancy may develop medical complications.
Elidel passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant.
It is advised not to take this medication without first talking
to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during
treatment or if you are breast-feeding a baby. Also, if you are
over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side
effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness and low blood
pressure. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Do not use Elidel without first talking to your doctor if you
have the congenital skin disorder Netherton's syndrome. Before
using Elidel, tells your doctor if you: have a skin infection;
have a disease of the immune system; or are using any other type
of skin product (e.g., cream, ointment, lotion, etc.). You may
not be able to use Elidel, or you may require a dosage adjustment
or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed
above.
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it but skip it in
case it is the time to take the next dose. Take the next scheduled
dose in such a situation.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C-30°C
(59°F-86°F). Do not freeze.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Follow some of the basics if you are using Elidel; keep yourself
away from sunlight and sun lamps, tanning beds, and treatments
with UVA or UVB light. Wear lose clothes to protect the treated
areas from sun. Consult with you doctor all the requisite protection
steps do not use any other skin product on the or near the areas
treated with Elidel.
NOTE: The above 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 the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
