Pimecrolimus is used to treat mild to moderate eczema or atopic dermatitis (a skin condition characterised by patches of red and itchy skin) when conventional treatments, such as topical corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory medicines), are ineffective or inappropriate to use.
Apply Pimecrolimus exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a cream.
To use the cream, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Clean and dry the affected area before application.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area(s) and rub gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
- Wash your hands after using.
- Replace the cap of the tube.
Avoid contact with your eyes and mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.
Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.
You may stop using Pimecrolimus when you no longer have skin itching or redness. Do not use this medicine continuously for a prolonged period or for longer than prescribed by your doctor.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens during treatment.
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- weak immune system
- generalised erythroderma (a skin condition where almost the entire skin of your body becomes red, inflamed and scaly)
- Netherton's syndrome (a rare disorder that mainly affects the skin, hair and immune system)
- severely inflamed or damaged skin
- skin cancer
- bacterial or viral skin infections e.g. cold sores, chicken pox
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Pimecrolimus to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Do not apply on skin that is broken, infected, or discharging fluid or pus.
You should avoid or minimise exposure to the sun or UV rays while using this medicine. Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when going outdoors.
Pimecrolimus may cause any of the following side effects: headache, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, fever, and application site reactions (e.g. warmth or burning sensation, pain, redness, itching, stinging).
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- skin ulcers, lump or growth
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may rarely cause skin reactions (e.g. rash, itching, swelling, flushing, burning sensation) while using Pimecrolimus.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Do not freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.