Generic name: tacrolimus topical [ ta-KROE-li-mus ]
Brand name: Protopic
Dosage form: topical ointment (0.03%; 0.1%)
Drug class:Miscellaneous topical agents
What is 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.
Warnings
This medicine is not for long-term use. A small number of people using tacrolimus or pimecrolimus skin medications have developed skin cancer or lymphoma. However, it is not known if either of these medicines 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.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use tacrolimus if you are allergic to it.
Not approved for anyone younger than 2 years old.
Tacrolimus ointment in 0.03% or 0.1% strengths may be used by adults and children 16 years and older. Only the 0.01% strength should be used on a child 2 to 15 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
skin cancer;
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 medicine)....
