Pimecrolimus (Elidel) skin cream
What is pimecrolimus skin cream?
PIMECROLIMUS (Elidel® ) is used to treat certain skin conditions including atopic dermatitis (eczema). Generic pimecrolimus cream is not available.
What should my health care professional know before I receive pimecrolimus cream?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- cold sores or shingles
- Netherton’s syndrome
- receiving any form of light therapy (phototherapy, UVA, or UVB) to your skin
- skin infection
- an unusual or allergic reaction to pimecrolimus, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Pimecrolimus cream is applied to the skin; avoid contact with the eyes. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas. Rub in gently and completely. Usually, you will continue using the cream until the areas heal. Wash your hands before and after use, unless you are treating your hands. Do not cover the treated skin with bandages or other dressings. Do not use your medicine more often than directed or for other types of skin conditions unless directed by your health care provider.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with pimecrolimus cream?
- alcoholic beverages or medications containing high percentages of alcohol
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about other skin products you are using. Do not apply pimecrolimus at the same site as other skin preparation without advice.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using pimecrolimus cream?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
- chickenpox infection
- cold sores or shingles
- extreme tiredness
- hives
- infection at site of application
- skin bleeding or change in your skin’s appearance (color, change in a mole or freckle, new growth)
- swollen glands (lymph nodes)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- irritation at the site or sites where you apply pimecrolimus including stinging, feeling of warmth or burning
- runny nose
What should I watch for while taking pimecrolimus cream?
Improvements to your skin may occur after the first few weeks of treatment. Even though your skin looks better, it is important to keep using the cream as instructed by your health care provider. If you do not notice an improvement in your condition or if your condition gets worse within the first few weeks of treatment, tell your health care professional.
Avoid sunlight, sun lamps, tanning beds and treatment with UVA or UVB light while using pimecrolimus cream. If you need to be outdoors after applying the cream, wear loose fitting clothing that protects the treated area from the sun. Ask your health care provider what other type of sun protection you should use.
Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages, dressings, or wraps. Unless otherwise instructed by your health care provider, do not apply another type of skin product on top of pimecrolimus cream. However, you can wear normal clothing over the treated areas.
Do not bathe, shower, or swim right after applying pimecrolimus cream. This could wash off the cream.
While you are using pimecrolimus cream, drinking alcohol may cause the skin or face to become flushed or red and feel hot. Let your prescriber know if you notice such reactions.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store the skin cream at room temperature, 15 - 30 degrees C (59 - 86 degrees F).
[ Last Revised: 3/15/2005 8:38:00 AM ]
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