Pimecrolimus (On The Skin)

Pimecrolimus (pim-e-KROE-li-mus)

Treats a skin condition called atopic dermatitis.

Brand Name(s):

Elidel
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to pimecrolimus.

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently and completely.
• Use the medicine only until your symptoms clear up. Then, start using the cream again if the symptoms appear again. Call your doctor if your symptoms get worse, or if they do not improve within 6 weeks.
• This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use on skin areas that are cut, scraped, or infected. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor has told you to.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using cimetidine (Tagamet®), an antibiotic (such as erythromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, Diflucan®, Ery-Tab®, Sporanox®, Nizoral®), or heart or blood pressure medicine (such as verapamil, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Lotrel®, Plendil®, Procardia®, Tiazac®).
• Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have ever had shingles, chickenpox, herpes, or eczema. Tell your doctor if you have a skin disease called Netherton's syndrome.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
• Do not use this medicine on children who are under 2 years of age.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Fever
• Skin itching, redness, or infection

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Burning, warmth, or irritation where the cream is applied
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Skin warts
• Swollen glands in the neck

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.