PIMECROLIMUS
- TOPICAL
(pim-eck-row-LEE-muss)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S)
Elidel, Pimecrolimus, Elidelicine
USES
Elidel (Pimecrolimus) is used to treat certain skin conditions
such as eczema (atopic dermatitis), in people who
have not responded well to, or who should not use
other eczema meds (e.g., topical steroids). Atopic
dermatitis is an allergic-type condition that causes
red, irritated, and itchy skin.
HOW TO USE
Wash your hands before and after using Elidelicine.
Apply a thin layer of Elidel onto the affected
areas of skin usually twice daily; or as directed
by your doctor. Rub the med into the skin gently
and completely. Elidel is for use on the skin
only. Avoid getting Elidel in your eyes or on
the inside of your nose or mouth. Use Elidel
exactly as directed. Your doctor may instruct you
to stop using Elidelicine once your eczema has
cleared up and to restart the med if signs or symptoms
reappear. Consult your doctor for details. If you
do not notice any improvement in your condition
after 6 weeks of using Elidelicine or if your
condition worsens at any time, contact your doctor
promptly. Do not apply Elidel 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.
SIDE EFFECTS
Temporary mild skin burning/irritation or headache
may occur within the first few days of Elidel treatment.
If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify
your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any
of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:
warts/sores or new growths on the skin, cough,
fever. If you notice other effects not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially
of: skin infections (e.g., herpes, chickenpox,
warts), immune system problems (e.g., HIV, organ
transplants), any allergies. Elidel is not recommended
for use if you have a history of Netherton's syndrome.
Elidel combined with skin exposure to sunlight
or ultraviolet light (e.g., tanning beds) may increase
your risk of serious side effects. Avoid prolonged
sun exposure and wear protective clothing when
outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. Do not
swim, shower, or bathe right after applying Elidel. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, apply
it after applying Elidelicine. Use of Elidel
is not recommended for children less than 2 years
of age. Elidel should be used only when clearly
needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and
benefits with your doctor. It is not known if Elidel passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
med you may use, especially: other topical meds.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor
or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE
If Elidel overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. Elidelicine may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES
Do not share Elidel with others. Laboratory and/or
medical tests may be performed to monitor your
progress. Elidel has been prescribed for your
current condition only. Do not use it later for
another skin problem unless told to do so by your
doctor. A different med may be necessary in those
cases.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a Elidel dose, use it as soon as you remember.
If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the
missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE
Store Elidel at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Do not freeze.
