Tacrolimus
About Tacrolimus
Tacrolimus is used to treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema). Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a common skin condition associated with inflamed and itchy skin patches. The symptoms include itchy, dry, flaky, swollen, rough and irritated skin.
Tacrolimus contains 'Tacrolimus' that works by suppressing the over-reaction of immune cells in the skin to a stimulus. Thus, it reduces allergic reactions and inflammation (redness and swelling).
Use Tacrolimus as prescribed. You are advised to use Tacrolimus for as long as your doctor has recommended it for you based on your medical condition. Some people may experience itching, burning sensation, redness, pain or skin tingling. Most of these side effects of Tacrolimus do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
Please tell your doctor if you are allergic to Tacrolimus or other medicines. If you are pregnant or a breastfeeding mother, it is advised to consult a doctor before using Tacrolimus. Avoid alcohol consumption with Tacrolimus as it may cause flushing (sudden reddening of face or skin that makes you feel warm and hot). Do not cover or wrap the treated area with a bandage or dressing. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as the fabric (bedding, clothing, dressings) in contact with Tacrolimus catches fire and burns easily.
Uses of Tacrolimus
• Atopic Dermatitis Treatment: Tacrolimus is often used to manage symptoms of atopic dermatitis, providing relief for itching and inflammation associated with this skin condition.
• Reducing Skin Inflammation: Tacrolimus can also be used to reduce overall skin inflammation, whether due to allergic reactions or other inflammatory conditions.
• Psoriasis Management: Tacrolimus can be effective in treating psoriasis by reducing the scaling and redness of the skin.
• Eczema Relief: Tacrolimus may be used to alleviate the symptoms of eczema, helping to soothe irritated skin and restore moisture.
• Post-Transplant Skin Care: Tacrolimus is sometimes prescribed for patients who have undergone organ transplants to prevent skin-related complications.
Medicinal Benefits
- Tacrolimus is a topical immunosuppressant (calcineurin inhibitor) containing Tacrolimus as its active ingredient, used for managing inflammatory skin conditions.
- It is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children above 2 years who do not respond adequately or are intolerant to topical corticosteroids.
- Tacrolimus works by selectively inhibiting calcineurin, which suppresses the overactive immune response in the skin, thereby reducing inflammation, redness, swelling, and allergic reactions.
- It provides relief from itching, skin irritation, and flare-ups, improving the appearance and comfort of affected skin areas.
- When used as prescribed, it may help prevent further flare-ups and maintain long-term control of atopic dermatitis symptoms.
Directions for Use
- Tacrolimus is for external use only.
- It is usually applied twice daily or as directed by your doctor.
- Check the label for directions before using this medicine.
- Clean and dry the affected area of the skin. Take a small amount of Tacrolimus on the fingertip and apply it as a thin layer on the affected area.
- Wash your hands before and after using Tacrolimus unless the treatment is for hands.
- If Tacrolimus accidentally comes into contact with the nose, mouth, eyes, or vagina, rinse with water thoroughly.
Storage
Side Effects of Tacrolimus
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Redness
- Pain
- Skin tingling
Drug Warnings
- Tacrolimus should not be used by individuals who are allergic to Tacrolimus or any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in those with severe skin infections or compromised skin barriers.
- If you're taking other immunosuppressants, topical steroids, or medications that affect the immune system, Tacrolimus should be used cautiously, as it may increase the risk of infections or side effects.
- Be sure to inform your healthcare provider if you're taking antifungal medications, antibiotics, antivirals, blood pressure drugs, or vitamin E supplements, as these may interact with Tacrolimus and affect its effectiveness or cause skin irritation.
- Tacrolimus should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using it if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, as the effects on the fetus or infant are not fully known.
- Tacrolimus is not recommended for children under 2 years. For children older than 2, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate use and dosage.
- Tacrolimus can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it's essential to use sun protection like sunscreen and protective clothing. Avoid smoking or being near flames after applying the medication, as fabrics in contact with it may catch fire easily.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Inform your doctor if you use oral corticosteroid (cortisone) or other topical products on the skin.
Drug-Food Interaction: Avoid consumption of alcohol with Tacrolimus as it may cause flushing (sudden reddening of face or skin that makes you feel warm and hot).
Drug-Disease Interaction: If you have liver failure, any skin tumours, a weakened immune system, Netherton’s syndrome (a rare hereditary disorder that affects hair, skin and immune system), lamellar ichthyosis (extensive scaling of skin), generalised erythroderma (inflammatory scaling and redness of entire skin), swollen lymph nodes, infected lesions, cutaneous Graft Versus Host Disease (an immune reaction of the skin in patients who had bone marrow transplant), or if you notice any changes in the appearance of your skin, please inform your doctor before using Tacrolimus.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid alcohol consumption with Tacrolimus as it may cause skin or face to become flushed or red and feel hot.
Pregnancy
cautionTacrolimus is a Category C pregnancy drug and is given to a pregnant woman only if the doctor thinks the benefits outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy before using Tacrolimus.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorPlease consult a doctor if you are a breastfeeding mother before using Tacrolimus.
Driving
safe if prescribedTacrolimus usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
consult your doctorSince it is a topical medication, the absorption into the bloodstream is generally lower compared to oral medications. This means the impact on liver function is typically less significant. However, in cases of severe liver disease, caution is still recommended because there may still be some systemic absorption. It's best to consult your healthcare provider before using it, as they can assess your specific liver condition and determine if the medication is safe for you. Regular monitoring might still be advised to ensure it doesn't cause any adverse effects.
Kidney
consult your doctorAs Tacrolimus is a topical medication, it has minimal systemic absorption. However, in cases of severe kidney disease, caution is advised due to the possibility of some absorption affecting kidney function. Always consult your healthcare provider before use, as they may recommend monitoring kidney function during treatment for added safety.
Children
cautionTacrolimus is not recommended for children below two years of age. For children above two years, Tacrolimus should be used in dose and duration advised by a doctor only.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Consume anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to help reduce skin inflammation.
- Avoid common food triggers such as dairy, eggs, soy, gluten, and nuts, and consider an elimination diet.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness.
- Prefer probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and kefir to support gut health, which can improve skin condition.
- Apply fragrance-free moisturisers regularly to maintain hydration and protect the skin’s barrier.
- Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps, shampoos, and detergents to prevent skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton to minimise skin irritation; avoid wool or synthetic materials.
- Practice stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce flare-ups.
- Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice on managing eczema and medication use.
Special Advise
- Please consult a dermatologist if the skin condition does not improve even after two weeks of treatment with Tacrolimus.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Atopic dermatitis: It is also known as eczema, a common skin condition associated with inflamed and itchy skin patches. It occurs when an overactive immune system responds aggressively to exposed irritants. It usually affects the inner elbows, arms, the back of the knees, or the head, but can occur anywhere. Eczema is not contagious. Scratching irritates and inflames the skin, which may cause infections that require antibiotic treatment. The symptoms include itchy, dry, flaky, swollen, rough and irritated skin.
FAQs
Tacrolimus is used to treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema).
Tacrolimus contains Tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant that works by suppressing the overreaction of immune cells in the skin to a stimulus. Thus, it reduces allergic reactions and inflammation (redness and swelling).
Tacrolimus may cause a burning sensation of the skin at the application site as a temporary side effect. However, if the burning sensation persists or worsens, please consult a doctor.
You are recommended to avoid or limit exposure to the sun for a long time or artificial light, such as tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen before going out in the sun.
You are not recommended to take a shower, swim or bath immediately after applying Tacrolimus as water may wash off this medicine.
Tacrolimus is flammable and can catch fire; hence, avoid smoking or going near naked flames after applying the ointment of tacrolimus.
You are recommended to use Tacrolimus for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen even after using Tacrolimus for two weeks, please consult a doctor.
