Tacrolimus topical

Generic name: Tacrolimus Topical
Dosage form: topical ointment (0.03%; 0.1%)
Drug class: Miscellaneous topical agents

Usage of Tacrolimus topical

Tacrolimus topical (for the skin) is used short-term to treat moderate to severe eczema in adults and children at least 2 years old.

tacrolimus topical is not for use in people who have a weak immune system.

Tacrolimus may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Tacrolimus topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic Reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tacrolimus topical may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

severe pain, burning, itching, or stinging;

new or worsened skin symptoms (warts, unusual rash or skin lesions, blistering or oozing);

a mole that has changed in size or color; or

symptoms of a viral skin infection--cold sores around your mouth, skin sores or blisters, scabs, itching, tingling.

Common side effects of tacrolimus topical may include:

burning, stinging, itching, or tingling of treated skin (especially during the first few days of treatment);

viral skin infection;

your skin being more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures;

acne, redness or crusting around your hair follicles;

upset stomach;

headache, muscle pain;

runny or stuffy nose; or

fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, cough, swollen glands.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Tacrolimus topical

You should not use tacrolimus if you are allergic to it.

Tacrolimus ointment in 0.03% or 0.1% strengths may be used by adults and children 16 years and older. Only the 0.03% strength should be used on a child 2 to 15 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever HAD:

skin cancer (melanoma);

a bacterial or viral skin infection (including herpes or chickenpox);

Netherton's syndrome (a genetic skin disorder); or

a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicines).

A small number of people using tacrolimus, or another similar medication have developed skin cancer or lymphoma. However, it is not known if tacrolimus causes cancer. Ask your doctor about your risk.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting this medicine.

Relate drugs

How to use Tacrolimus topical

Usual Adult Dose for Atopic Dermatitis:

Apply a thin layer to the affected areas 2 times a day and rub in gently and completely; discontinue use when symptoms resolveComments:-If itch, rash, and redness do not improve within 6 weeks, patients should be re-examined by their healthcare provider to cOnfirm the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis. Use: As second-line therapy for the short-term and noncontinuous chronic treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised patients who have failed to respond adequately to other topical treatments, or when those treatments are not advisable

Usual Pediatric Dose for Atopic Dermatitis:

Less than 2 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established2 to 15 years: 0.03% ointment: Apply a thin layer to the affected areas 2 times a day and rub in gently and completely; discontinue use when symptoms resolve0.1% ointment: Safety and efficacy have not been established16 years and older:0.03 or 0.1% ointment: Apply a thin layer to the affected areas 2 times a day and rub in gently and completely; discontinue use when symptoms resolveComments:-If itch, rash, and redness do not improve within 6 weeks, patients should be re-examined by their healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis. -Children aged 2 to 15 years should only receive the 0.03% formulation of this drug. Use: As second-line therapy for the short-term and noncontinuous chronic treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised patients who have failed to respond adequately to other topical treatments, or when those treatments are not advisable

Warnings

tacrolimus topical is not for long-term use. A small number of people using tacrolimus, or another similar medication have developed skin cancer or lymphoma. However, it is not known if tacrolimus causes cancer.

Use this medicine only on skin that is affected by eczema. Avoid applying to an area that may be affected with skin cancer.

What other drugs will affect Tacrolimus topical

Other drugs may affect tacrolimus topical, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Disclaimer

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