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.
