Generic Name: tacrolimus topical (ta
CRAW lih mus TAH pih kal)
Typical Brand Names: Protopic
What Is It Used For?
Protopic is used to cure atopic dermatitis (e.g., eczema) and
used as an immunosuppressant, which decreases the effects of your
body's immune system.
How Is It Used?
Apply a thin layer of tacrolimus topical to all skin areas that
your doctor has diagnosed as having eczema. A pea-sized amount
should cover an area about the size of a two-inch circle. Rub
the medication gently and completely into the skin. Use tacrolimus
topical twice a day, about 12 hours apart, unless otherwise directed
by your doctor.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing;
closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face;
or hives), stop using tacrolimus topical and seek emergency medical
attention or contact your doctor immediately.
Less serious side effects like: drowsiness, headache, nausea,
sleepiness, confusion, blurred mouth, upset stomach. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
Is It Safe?
Avoid tacrolimus topical without first talking to your doctor
if you have the congenital skin disorder Netherton's syndrome.
It is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not
known whether tacrolimus topical will harm an unborn baby. Do
not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if
you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant during treatment.
It also passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant.
Tacrolimus topical is not recommended for use during breast-feeding.
Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor
if you are breast-feeding a baby.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Talk to your doctor before taking another medicine that may affect
the immune system such as oral or injectable tacrolimus, cyclosporine,
mycophenolate mofetil or other immunosuppressant medication. You
may not be able to use tacrolimus topical, or you may require
a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking another
medicine that affects the immune system. Talk to your doctor and
pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter
medicines.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you have missed any dose, use it as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose (within
2 hours.), skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed.
Do not use a double dose of this medication. And try to keep your
doses at least 4 hours apart.
How Should It Be Stored?
Protopic should be kept at room temperature and away from moisture
and heat. Do not allow the medication to freeze. Keep out of the
reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Stay away from sunlight, tanning beds, and treatments with UVA
or UVB light. If you need to be outdoors after applying tacrolimus
topical, wear loose clothing that protects the treated area from
the sun. Also, ask your doctor what other type of protection from
the sun may be needed.
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.
