Pimecrolimus (topical) Usage

Pimecrolimus (topical) is used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis
It is usually used only after topical corticosteroids or emollients have not worked for you.

How Pimecrolimus (topical) works

Pimecrolimus (topical) is an immunosuppressant that works by decreasing inflammation in the skin which causes redness and itching of the skin.

Common side effects of Pimecrolimus (topical)

Application site reactions (burning, irritation, itching and redness), Skin infection

Expert advice for Pimecrolimus (topical)

• Wash your hands before applying Pimecrolimus (topical). Apply a thin layer to the areas of skin affected by atopic dermatitis (eczema).
• Make sure your skin affected by atopic dermatitis (eczema) is completely dry especially after bath or shower.
• Limit sun exposure during treatment even when the medicine is not applied on the skin.
• Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages or dressings. You can wear normal clothing.
• Avoid getting Pimecrolimus (topical) in the eyes or mouth. If the Pimecrolimus (topical) gets on any of these areas, it should be thoroughly wiped off and/or rinsed off with water.
• Stop Pimecrolimus (topical) when the signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema) such as itching, rash, and redness go away or consult your doctor.
• Not recommended to be used for more than 6 weeks and if needed, treatment may be repeated with breaks in-between.
• Can’t be used if your immune system is weak (for example, if you have cancer or are taking steroids for a long time).
• Inform your doctor if you have any infection on your skin including chicken pox or herpes.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
• Many people see an improvement in their skin in as early as one week.
• Not recommended in children aged below 2 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) a steroid?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not a steroid. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) used in vitiligo?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for used in vitiligo. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Which is more effective, Pimecrolimus (topical) or tacrolimus?
Tacrolimus ointment is more effective, with a similar side effect compared with Pimecrolimus (topical) in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Ques. Q. Which is more effective, Pimecrolimus (topical) vs hydrocortisone topical?
Pimecrolimus (topical) is more effective, with a less side effect compared with hydrocortisone in patients with atopic dermatitis. Pimecrolimus (topical) can be applied to face and neck where prolonged intermittent treatment whereas hydrocortisone (topical corticosteroids) may be inappropriate.

Ques. Q. Which is more effective in atopic dermatitis, Tacrolimus or Pimecrolimus (topical)?
Tacrolimus ointment is more effective, with a similar side effect compared with Pimecrolimus (topical) in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Ques. Q. What are alternatives to Pimecrolimus (topical) cream?
Tacrolimus topical or steroid topicals i.e. hydrocortisone, betamethasone, clobetasol can be used as an alternative to Pimecrolimus (topical).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) used for perioral dermatitis?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of perioral dermatitis. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) used for rosacea?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of rosacea. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for alopecia?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of alopecia. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for ringworm?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of ringworm infection. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for scabies?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of scabies. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream for acne?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of acne. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for pityriasis alba?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of pityriasis alba. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Ques. Q. Is Pimecrolimus (topical) cream used for psoriasis?
No. Pimecrolimus (topical) is not approved for the treatment of psoriasis. It is an immunosuppressant, used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema).