Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: PIMECROLIMUS - TOPICAL (pim-eck-row-LEE-muss)
BRAND NAME(S): Elidel
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Pimecrolimus is used to treat certain skin conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), in people who have not responded well to, or who should not use other eczema medications (e.g., topical steroids). Atopic dermatitis is an allergic-type condition that causes red, irritated, and itchy skin.
HOW TO USE: Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. Apply a thin layer of this medication onto the affected areas of skin usually 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. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. Use this medication exactly as directed. Your doctor may instruct you to stop using this medicine once your eczema has cleared up and to restart the medication if signs or symptoms reappear. Consult your doctor for details. If you do not notice any improvement in your condition after 6 weeks of using this medicine or if your condition worsens at any time, contact your doctor promptly. Do not apply this medication to open wounds or infected areas. Do not cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless directed to do so by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Temporary mild skin burning/irritation or headache may occur within the first few days of treatment. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: warts/sores or new growths on the skin, cough, fever. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: skin infections (e.g., herpes, chickenpox, warts), immune system problems (e.g., HIV, organ transplants), any allergies. This medication is not recommended for use if you have a history of Netherton's syndrome. This medication combined with skin exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light (e.g., tanning beds) may increase your risk of serious side effects. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. Do not swim, shower, or bathe right after applying this medication. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, apply it after applying this medicine. Use of this medication is not recommended for children less than 2 years of age. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Eczema - Get information about eczema causes, skin symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Types include dyshidrotic, atopic dermatitis, nummular, varicose and seborrheic eczema.
- Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
- Atopic Dermatitis - Get information on atopic dermatitis (a type of eczema) causes, symptoms, diagnosis, management, treatment and medications. Learn if this itchy skin rash is contagious.
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