Generic
Pimecrolimus 1% Topical
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Pimecrolimus 1% Topical is an immunosuppressant used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema). It suppresses the activity of certain immune cells that cause skin inflammation (redness and swelling), relieving itching and improving rashes.
Description
Pimecrolimus is a macrolactam and a derivative of ascomycin. It is an immunosuppressant which inhibits the activation of T-cells and prevents the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells. It is used for short-term or intermittent long-term treatment for mild to moderate atopic eczema.
Indications
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Therapeutic class
Dermatological Skin Care
Pharmacological class
Topical Calcineurin Inhibitor (Immunosuppressant)
Pharmacology
Pimecrolimus is a macrolactam that inhibits T-cell activation and prevents release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells. It reduces cytokine production and modulates cutaneous inflammatory responses, relieving itching and rashes in atopic dermatitis.
Mechanism of action
Reduces skin inflammation by inhibiting T-cell activation and inflammatory mediator release.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Atopic dermatitis: Apply a thin layer of 1% cream onto affected areas twice daily
- Stop treatment if no improvement after 6 weeks or if eczema worsens
- Hepatic impairment: Dose reduction necessary
Pediatric Dose (>2 years):
- Same as adult: Apply a thin layer of 1% cream onto affected areas twice daily
- Stop treatment if no improvement after 6 weeks or if eczema worsens
Administration
- For external use only
- Clean and dry the affected area before application
- Wash hands after applying (unless hands are the affected area)
- Do not cover with airtight dressings (increases risk of side effects)
Missed dose
If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next application; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Application site reactions (burning, irritation, itching, and redness)
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only
- Avoid contact with water (shower, swimming) right after application
- Avoid continuous long-term use
- Discontinue if infection develops and consult doctor
- Inform doctor if no improvement after 2 weeks or if skin worsens
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to pimecrolimus or any ingredient
- Children under 2 years
- Immunocompromised patients
- Netherton's syndrome
Drug interactions
- CYP3A4 isoenzyme inhibitors: In patients with widespread and/or erythrodermic disease
- Potentially fatal: Increased risk of infections when used with live vaccines
Food interactions
Not food-related (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies have shown harmful effects; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Safe during breastfeeding; human studies show insignificant transfer to breast milk and no harm to the baby.
Pediatric use
Contraindicated in children under 2 years; consult your doctor.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients; consult your doctor.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Dose reduction necessary in kidney disease; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Dose reduction necessary in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No overdose information available; consult your doctor if overused.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Pimecrolimus 1% Topical