Tacrolimus (topical)

About tacrolimus (topical)

Tacrolimus (topical) suppresses inflammatory reactions in the skin and therefore works to reduce symptoms of eczema including inflammation, redness and itching. It is used as a short-term treatment for moderate to severe eczema in patients that have not responded to, or have not tolerated other therapies.

Before using tacrolimus (topical)

Before using tacrolimus topical make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver problems.
• If you have skin cancer.
• If you suffer from a condition called Netherton's syndrome (an inherited skin barrier disease).
• If you have generalised erythroderma (inflammation, reddening and scaling of the entire skin).
• If you have a weak immune system.
• If you have swollen lymph nodes (glands) at the start of treatment.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to tacrolimus, any of the other ingredients in the ointment, or to any other medicine, especially the antibiotics erythromycin, clarithromycin, azithromycin and telithromycin.
• If you have been prescribed light therapy at the same time as tacrolimus ointment.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  
  
• Tacrolimus (topical) is not recommended for use in children under 2 years.

How to use tacrolimus (topical)

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Apply tacrolimus (topical) exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Tacrolimus (topical) should be applied thinly to the affected area(s) of skin.
• Wash your hands after applying tacrolimus topical (unless it is your hands that are being treated).
• After a bath or shower, make sure your skin is completely dry before applying tacrolimus topical.
• If you forget to apply the ointment, apply it as soon as you remember and then continue as before. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Tacrolimus (topical) should not be used continuously for long periods of time.
• If you have a skin infection do not apply topical tacrolimus to these areas of skin.
• Avoid contact with the eyes and inside of the nose or mouth. If the ointment does get on these areas, it should be thoroughly wiped off and rinsed with water.
• The area of skin that is being treated should not be covered with bandages or wraps.
• Moisturing creams and lotions should not be used within 2 hours of applying tacrolimus (topical).
• Treatment should be continued until the eczema has cleared. An improvement is usually seen within one week, but if there has not been an improvement after two weeks you should see your doctor.
• Whilst you are using tacrolimus (topical), and for a while after you stop treatment, do not have any immunisations (vaccinations) without talking to your doctor first.
• Tacrolimus (topical) may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid strong sunlight and sun beds and use a sun protection cream higher than Factor 15. Wear loose fitting clothing that protects the skin from the sun.
• If you drink alcohol whilst using tacrolimus (topical), the skin or face may become flushed or red and feel hot.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
• Tacrolimus (topical) is for external use only. If you accidentally swallow any of the ointment go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you even if it is empty. Do not try to induce vomiting.

Can tacrolimus (topical) cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Alcohol intolerance is a common side-effect of tacrolimus (topical). Facial flushing or skin irritation may occur after drinking alcohol.

If you experience any other symptoms that you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store tacrolimus (topical)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines