Pimecrolimus: functions, dosage, side effects, how to use it

What medicine is Pimecrolimus?

What is pimecrolimus for?

Pimecrolimus is used to treat several skin conditions such as eczema or other atopic dermatics. Usually this drug is used when the patient is unable to use or does not respond well to topical drugs such as topical steroids.

Eczema is an allergic condition that causes redness, irritation, and itching of the skin. This drug works to change the skin's immune protection system, so it can reduce the allergic reactions that cause eczema.

Pimecrolimus belongs to a class of dermatological drugs known as topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs).

This medicine is not recommended if you have a rare genetic disorder (Netherton syndrome). This drug should also not be used for anyone with a weakened immune system (such as after an organ transplant).

How is pimecrolimus used?

Follow the rules given by your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Read the drug manual and the Patient Information Leaflet available at the pharmacy, if available, before you get this medication and each time you buy it again. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Wash your hands with soap and water before using the medicine. Gently apply it to the affected area, usually 2 times a day or according to doctor's instructions. Rub the medicine gently and thoroughly. Wash your hands after using the medicine unless your hands are being treated. If your doctor recommends using a moisturizer, use it after applying this medication.

Pimecrolimus is used only for the skin. Avoid using the drug in the eyes, in the nose or mouth. Do not use the medicine on wounds or infected areas. Do not cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless instructed by your doctor. Do not shower, bathe, or swim after applying the medicine.

Use the medicine as instructed by the doctor. Your doctor may instruct you to stop using it after your eczema clears up and use it again when symptoms start to recur. Consult your doctor for more information.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 6 weeks of using the drug or any time when your condition worsens.

How is pimecrolimus stored?

This medication is best stored at room temperature, away from direct light and damp places. Don't keep it in the bathroom. Don't freeze it. Other brands of this drug may have different storage rules. Observe the storage instructions on the product package or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medicines down the toilet or down the drain unless instructed to do so. Discard this product when it has expired or when it is no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company about how to safely dispose of your product.

Pimecrolimus dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What is the pimecrolimus dosage for adults?

Adult dosage for atopic skin

Apply a small amount to the affected area 2 times a day and scrub gently and thoroughly.

What is the pimecrolimus dosage for children?

Dosage in children with atopic dermatitis

3 months - 2 years: use in this age group has not been approved by the FDA

> = 2 years: apply lightly on the affected area 2 times a day and rub gently and thoroughly

In what dosage is pimecrolimus available?

Pimecrolimus is available in dosages: cream, tropical: 1% (30 g, 60g, 100g)

Pimecrolimus side effects

What side effects can be experienced due to pimecrolimus?

Seek medical help immediately if you experience any of the following signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using pimecrolimus and call your doctor if you experience serious side effects such as:

• severe skin burning
• symptoms of a new skin infection (warts, unusual bruising, blisters or pus, burning or tingling feeling)
• worsening skin symptoms
• swollen skin glands, sore throat
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms

Less serious side effects include:

• mild burning or warm feeling of the treated skin
• headache
• flu symptoms such as congestion, sneezing
• swelling of hair follicles
• warts or pimples
• burning, stinging, tingling, or pain in the skin being treated (especially in the first few days after treatment)
• abdominal pain
• sore muscles
• sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures

Not everyone experiences the above side effects. There may be some unspecified side effects. If you have concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Pimecrolimus Drug Warnings and Cautions

What should be known before using pimecrolimus?

Before using certain drugs, consider the risks and benefits first. This is a decision you and your doctor will have to make. For this drug, pay attention to the following:

Allergy

Tell your doctor if you have any unusual or allergic reactions to pimecrolimus or other medications. Also tell your doctor if you have any other types of allergies such as to food, coloring, preservatives, or animal allergies. For over-the-counter products, read the labels on the packaging carefully.

Children

Sufficient studies on pimecrolimus have not shown problems in pediatric age groups that may limit its usefulness in children. However, the use of pimecrolimus in children under 2 years is not recommended.

Although studies of the relationship between age and the effects of pimecrolimus have not been applied to the elderly population, no elderly problem has been documented.

Is pimecrolimus safe for pregnant and lactating women?

There are no adequate studies regarding the risks of using this drug in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before using this medication. This drug is included in the risk of pregnancy category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The following references the pregnancy risk categories according to the FDA:

• A = Not at risk
• B = No risk in several studies
• C = May be risky
• D = There is positive evidence of risk
• X = Contraindicated
• N = Unknown

Pimecrolimus Drug Interactions

What medicines may interact with pimecrolimus?

Drug interactions can change the performance of your medications or increase the risk of serious side effects. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this document. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription / non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.

Can food or alcohol interact with pimecrolimus?

Certain drugs should not be used with meals or at certain foods because drug interactions can occur. Consuming alcohol or tobacco with certain drugs can also cause interactions to occur. Discuss your drug use related to food, alcohol, or tobacco with your health care provider.

What health conditions can interact with pimecrolimus?

Any other health conditions you have can affect the use of this drug. Always tell your doctor if you have other health problems, especially:

• cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL)

• Netherton syndrome (a rare skin disease)

• weakened immune system — should not be used in patients with this condition

• eczema herpeticum (varicelliform vkaposi eruption)

• herpes simplex virus infection

• lymphadenopathy (lymph node problems)

• lymphoma

• mononucleosis

• Skin cancer

• pappiloma of the skin (warts)

• viral infection (eg, chickenpox or shingles) - use with caution as they can make the situation worse

Pimecrolimus overdose

What should I do in an emergency or overdose?

In case of emergency or overdose, contact your local emergency services provider (112) or immediately to the nearest hospital emergency department.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, when it is nearing the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the usual dosing schedule. Don't double the dose.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.