ProTopic:
TACROLIMUS - TOPICAL
(tack-row-LEE-muss)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Protopic
USES:
ProTopic is an immunosuppressant used topically to treat
itching and swelling associated with a certain skin
condition (atopic dermatitis).
HOW TO USE:
Wash your hands before and after applying ProTopic. Apply
a thin layer of ProTopic to the affected area of skin
twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Rub ProTopic
into the skin gently and completely. ProTopic is for
use on the skin only. When applying ProTopic after
a shower or bath, make sure your skin is completely
dry. Do not bathe, shower, or swim immediately after
applying the med. This could wash it off of the treated
area. It is very important to continue using ProTopic
for at least 7 days after your condition starts to
improve. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not
cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages
unless directed to do so by your doctor. Only the weakest
strength product should be used in children 2 to 15
years old. Use of ProTopic in children less than 2
years of age is not recommended.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Skin burning, itching, or redness may occur. If any of
these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious
side effects occur: acne, headache, unusual fatigue,
nasal congestion. Tell your doctor immediately if any
of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: upset
stomach, appearance of any skin infections or sores
(e.g., chicken pox, shingles, lip sores, tumors, or
warts). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these
highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur:
muscle pain, swollen glands (especially in the neck,
under the arms, or in the groin area). In the unlikely
event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek
immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic
reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness,
breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not
listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of:
any skin infections, viral infections (e.g., herpes,
mononucleosis), cancer, allergies (especially drug
allergies). ProTopic may make you more sensitive to
the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, use a sunscreen,
and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Avoid sunlamps
and tanning beds. ProTopic should be used only when
clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks
and benefits with your doctor. ProTopic passes into
breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing
infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
med you may use, especially of: other skin products,
cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin,
erythromycin), St John's wort, azole antifungals (e.g.,
itraconazole, ketoconazole), protease inhibitors (e.g.,
indinavir, ritonavir), calcium channel blockers (e.g.,
diltiazem, verapamil). Do not start or stop any medicine
without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. ProTopic may
be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include
tremor, diarrhea, blurred vision, dizziness, and nausea.
NOTES:
Do not share ProTopic with others.
MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a 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 ProTopic at room temperature between 77 degrees
F (25 degrees C), with brief storage between 59 and
86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) permitted away from
light and moisture.
