pimecrolimus

REMS

Short-term and intermittent long-term management of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis unresponsive to or in patients intolerant of conventional treatment.

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Hypersensitivity;
Should not be applied to areas of active cutaneous viral infections (↑ risk of dissemination);
Concurrent use of occlusive dressings;
Malignant or premalignant skin conditions;
Immunocompromised;
Netherton syndrome (↑ absorption of pimecrolimus);
Lactation: Lactation.

Use Cautiously in:

Clinical infection at treatment site (infection should be treated/cleared prior to use);
Skin papillomas (warts) (allow treatment/resolution prior to use);
Natural/artificial sunlight (minimize exposure);
OB: Use during pregnancy only if potential maternal benefit justifies potential fetal risk;
Pedi:
Children <2 yr (safety and effectiveness not established)
.

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Derm: SKIN CANCER

Local: burning

Misc: LYMPHOMA

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

None reported.

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Cream: 1%

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

(Adults and Children ≥2 yr): Apply thin film twice daily; rub in gently and completely.

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Action ⬆ ⬇

Inhibits T-cell and mast cell activation by interfering with production of inflammatory cytokines.

Therapeutic effects:

Decreased severity of atopic dermatitis.

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: Immunosuppressant agents (topical)

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Minimally absorbed through intact skin.

Distribution: Local distribution after topical administration.

Metabolism/Excretion: Systemic metabolism and excretion are negligible with local application.

Half-Life: Not applicable.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(improvement in symptoms)

ROUTE	ONSET	PEAK	DURATION
topical	within 6 days	unknown	unknown

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Explain purpose and side effects of medication. Advise patient to read Patient Information before starting therapy. Instruct patient on correct technique for application. Apply only as directed to external areas. Wash hands following application, unless hands are areas of application.
Advise patient to notify health care provider of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult health care provider before taking other medications.
Caution patient to avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight, including tanning beds, while using cream.
Advise patient that pimecrolimus may cause skin burning. This occurs most commonly during 1st few days of application, is of mild to moderate severity, and improves within 5 days or as atopic dermatitis resolves.
Advise patient to notify health care provider if no improvement is seen following 6 wk of treatment or at any time if condition worsens.
Rep: Advise women of reproductive potential to notify health care provider if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.

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Indications ⬇