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Home > Drug Category > Skin Medications (Topical/Oral) > Protopic Ointment and Equivalent

Protopic Ointment Information

Protopic Ointment (Tacrolimus) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. It is also used to prevent flare-ups of atopic dermatitis. It is typically used in adults and children 2 years and above with a competent immune system, who are not responding well to other medications such as corticosteroids. Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, red, and sometimes weeping or crusting patches of skin. It occurs due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, leading to a compromised skin barrier and an overactive immune response in the skin. The active ingredient in Protopic Ointment is tacrolimus, a member of a class of drugs known as topical calcineurin inhibitors. Tacrolimus works by modulating the immune response in the skin. In eczema, the immune system overreacts, leading to inflammation and the characteristic symptoms of the condition. Tacrolimus penetrates the skin and inhibits calcineurin, a protein essential for the activation of T-lymphocytes, which are immune cells that play a key role in the inflammatory process. By suppressing the activation of these immune cells, tacrolimus reduces the release of inflammatory chemicals, thereby alleviating the redness, itching, and dryness associated with atopic dermatitis. It also allows the skin to heal and reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups.

Protopic Ointment Side Effects

Some mild side effects of this medication include stinging, burning, or itching of the applied skin, acne, diarrhea, fever, headache, muscle pain, infected hair follicles, and skin rash. Stop using this topical medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Cysts (small sacs under the skin filled with fluid or pus); • Fever, chills, flu-like symptoms;
• Seizures;
• Signs of kidney problems such as nausea, vomiting, fever, swelling of hands and feet, fatigue, and dark urine

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Protopic Ointment Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to tacrolimus or any other ingredients in Protopic Ointment. Before applying this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections;
• Inherited skin barrier disease, such as Netherton's syndrome and lamellar ichthyosis;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Skin cancer and other cancers;
• Weak immune system

This medication can increase the risk of cancers; therefore, avoid long-term use and limit application to areas of atopic dermatitis. Avoid the intake of alcohol while using this medicine. Do not use this medication on infected skin or wound areas. Limit your skin's exposure to the sun and wear protective clothing when outdoors, as this medication can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Some other medications, such as antifungals, diltiazem, macrolide antibiotics, and other immune modulators, may interact with this topical medicine. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including other topical medications that you are using, before starting Protopic Ointment to prevent potential drug interactions.

Protopic Ointment is available in different dosage strengths for various age groups. Apply a thin layer of this ointment to the affected skin as directed by your doctor or as stated in the medication pack. Do not allow this medication to come into contact with your mouth. If this happens, seek medical attention immediately. Gently rub it in until fully absorbed. Do not cover the applied areas with bandages. Please wash your hands after use. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Protopic Ointment?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Protopic Ointment.