Why is Protopic Ointment prescribed?

Tacrolimus (Protopic) ointment is used to treat patients with severe atopic dermatitis (a skin condition causing the skin to itch and dry out and sometimes develop red, scaly rashes). It is usually prescribed when the patient has not responded to previous medications. It is also used in the treatment of severe refractory uveitis after bone marrow transplants and in vitiligo (a skin condition due to the lack of melanin, causing pale white patches to develop)

What does it do?

Tacrolimus is classified as a topical macrolide immunosuppressant. The exact mechanism of action of Tacrolimus is not determined. It has been observed that when it is applied to the skin, it works by slowing down the activity of cells in your body’s immune system, reducing the speed of growth of atopic dermatitis on your skin.

How should I apply it?

Protopic ointment is available in two concentrations. The 0.1% ointment is available in 30g and 60g tubes while the 0.03% ointment is available in 60g and 120g tubes. It is intended only for topical administration and it is must be used in the quantity and duration advised by your doctor.

To apply Protopic ointment:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the ointment.
2. Ensure the portion of your skin to be treated is clean and dry.
3. Apply a thin layer of Protopic ointment to all affected areas of your skin and rub it into your skin gently. Use the smallest amount needed.
4. Wash your hands with soap and water again to remove any medication or its residue from your skin. If using Protopic ointment on your hands, make sure to not wash away any medication.
5. Taking a bath or swimming right after applying Protopic ointment is not advised. The ointment may be washed away and not elicit any medicinal effect.
6. You may use moisturizers with Protopic ointment. However, check with your doctor or pharmacist if your moisturizer is suitable with the medication. Apply the moisturizer after applying Protopic ointment.

Exercise caution when exposing yourself to sunlight or in areas or devices, which emit ultraviolet light such as tanning booths and sunlamps. If sun exposure is inevitable, wear protective clothing to protect the treated area from the sun. Do not cover your skin with bandages, dressings, or wraps.

In cases of accidental application of Protopic ointment to your eyes, nose, or mouth, flush these areas with plenty of water to prevent any untoward effects. In cases where the ointment is swallowed, consult your doctor immediately.

Apply this medication as prescribed and do so at the same time each day to ensure the improvement of your symptoms and obtain the most benefit from it.

What if I missed a dose?

The desired effects of prescribed medications will only be achieved if used properly. As much as possible, strictly follow your doctor’s prescribed dosing schedule. However, if you miss a dose, apply one immediately and adjust the time of your next dose depending on your doctor’s advice. Never apply two doses at the same time just to make up for your missed dose.

What are the special precautions before using Protopic ointment?

Long-term use should be avoided due to reports of some patients developing rare cancers (skin and lymphoma). There is not enough evidence to determine if Protopic ointment caused the cancers to develop. However, studies show that patients using Tacrolimus ointment, including Protopic ointment, have a greater risk of developing cancer.

Use Protopic ointment only for the recommended duration and frequency. If your symptoms have not improved or have worsened within 6 weeks of treatment, inform your doctor.

Do not use Protopic ointment in children younger than 2 years old. For children aged 2-15 years old, use the 0.03% preparation of Protopic ointment.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies or sensitiveness to the medication. Also inform your doctor or pharmacist of all your prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Also, inform your doctor of your medical history, especially current and previous skin infections such as Netherton’s syndrome, chickenpox, shingles, herpes or eczema. Also, tell them if you have any kidney problems or are immunocompromised, as Protopic can alter your immune response to fight infections, which makes you susceptible to viral infections. If you are exposed to any viral infections while using Protopic ointment, consult your doctor immediately.

Tell your doctor regarding any previous surgeries you have undergone or will undergo, including dental procedures.

Tell your doctor if you regularly consume alcoholic drinks, as drinking alcohol while using the medication may cause redness and irritation on your skin and face.

For the drug label information of Protopic ointment, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects include:
• Acne
• Cold or flu-like symptoms
• Itching
• Mild stinging of your skin
• Redness or soreness of your skin
• Sensitiveness to hot or cold temperatures
• Skin tingling

Serious side effects include:
• Chickenpox or other blisters
• Cold sores
• Severe rashes
• Skin infection
• Swelling of your extremities
• Swollen glands

Is it safe to use it with another drug?

Interactions of Protopic ointment with other drugs have not been formally studied and caution must be exercised, especially when using the following medications:

• Albenza
• Alteplase
• Aminophylline
• Atazanavir
• Atorvastatin
• Cardizem CD
• Cimetidine
• Conivaptan
• Coumadin
• Delavirdine
• Diflucan
• Diovan
• Erythromycin
• Gleevec
• Indinavir
• Isoniazid
• Isoptin SR
• Nicardipine
• Nizoral
• Norvasc
• Quinidine
• Rasilez
• Ritonavir
• Samsca
• Serzone
• Sporanox
• Symmetrel
• Tenormin
• Tolcapone
• Tramadol
• Vancomycin
• Vildagliptin
• Vorinostat
• Zyloprim

This information does not reflect all possible interactions or adverse effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist in situations of possible drug interactions and inform them of a list of products you currently use. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns regarding this medication.

How should I store it?

Store it at room temperature with a clean environment away from light, moisture, and extreme temperatures such as in your car.

Keep away from children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom.

Do not discard this medication down the toilet or into a drain unless given instructions to do so. When the product is expired or no longer needed, discard it properly in the trash.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

Immediately call an ambulance and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

It is currently unknown whether Tacrolimus ointment can cause harm to the fetus when administered to pregnant women or if it affects reproduction.

Tacrolimus ointment is found to be excreted in breast milk which may cause potentially severe adverse reactions.

The use of Protopic ointment should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor to weigh its risks and benefits.

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