PIMECROLIMUS - TOPICAL

PIMECROLIMUS - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (pim-eck-row-LEE-muss)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Elidel

GENERIC NAME(S): pimecrolimus

Uses

USES: Pimecrolimus is used to treat certain skin conditions such as eczema (atopic dermatitis) in people who should not use or have not responded to other eczema medications (e.g., topical steroids). Eczema is an allergic-type condition that causes red, irritated, and itchy skin. This drug works by changing the skin's defense (immune) system, thereby decreasing the allergic reaction that causes eczema. Pimecrolimus belongs to a class of drugs known as topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). This medication is not recommended if you have a history of a certain rare genetic disorder (Netherton's syndrome). Also, this medication should not be used by anyone who has a weakened immune system (e.g., following an organ transplant).


How to use PIMECROLIMUS - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using pimecrolimus and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Wash your hands with soap and water before using this medication. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas of skin, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Rub the medication into the skin gently and completely. Wash your hands after using this product unless your hands are being treated. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, apply it after this medication. Pimecrolimus is for use on the skin only. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. 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. Do not bathe, shower or swim right after applying this medication. Use this medication exactly as directed. Your doctor may instruct you to stop using it once your eczema has cleared up and to start using it again if signs or symptoms reappear. Consult your doctor for details. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve after 6 weeks of using this medication or if your condition worsens at any time.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Mild burning or irritation at the application site may occur during the first few days of treatment. Headache may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if the following unlikely but serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat). A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using pimecrolimus, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current infections (e.g., mononucleosis), use of light therapy (e.g., UVA or UVB), skin infections (e.g., herpes, chickenpox, shingles, warts), immune system problems. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially: topical steroids, other ointments/lotions/creams. This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medication may be harmful if swallowed.

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ELIDEL 1% CREAM

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ELIDEL 1% CREAM

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ELIDEL 1% CREAM

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Faq for PIMECROLIMUS - TOPICAL

Pimecrolimus topical is used to treat atopic dermatitis (eczema) in patients who are 2 years of age and older.

Pimecrolimus belongs to a class of medications called calcineurin inhibitors. It works by reducing immune response and inflammation in the skin, which helps to relieve symptoms of eczema.

The common side effects of Pimecrolimus topical include burning, stinging, or itching at the application site. Other side effects may include headache, flu-like symptoms, and skin infections.

Apply a thin layer of Pimecrolimus topical to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently and completely. Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless you are treating the skin on your hands.

No, you should not apply Pimecrolimus topical to open wounds or broken skin. It is only meant to be used on intact skin affected by eczema.

The improvement in symptoms may be seen within a few days of starting treatment, but it may take up to 6 weeks to see the full benefits of Pimecrolimus topical. Consistent use is important for optimal results.

It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before using Pimecrolimus topical if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. They can determine if the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Yes, Pimecrolimus topical can be used in children who are 2 years of age and older. However, it should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Pimecrolimus topical can be used with other medications, but it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, to avoid potential drug interactions.


Warning

WARNING: Patients have benefited from use of pimecrolimus when it is used correctly. Long-term safety for this drug is not known at this time. There have been rare reports of cancers (e.g., skin cancer, lymphoma) in patients using pimecrolimus. It is not known whether pimecrolimus caused these cancers when used on the skin. Further studies to determine the long-term safety of this product are ongoing. In the unlikely event that unusual lumps, swollen glands, or growths (especially on the skin) occur, contact your doctor right away. The FDA recommends the following: This drug should be used only if other drugs have failed or if other medications are not considered appropriate by your doctor. Pimecrolimus should be used on the skin for short treatment periods only. If needed, treatment may be repeated with breaks in between. Use the smallest amount that will treat your condition properly, and apply only on the affected skin. Also, this medication should not be used in children younger than 2 years. As with all medications, discuss the risks, benefits, and proper use of this medication with your doctor.


Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.