Elidel

Common use

Elidel is an immunosuppressant. It works by decreasing your body's immune system to help slow down the growth of atopic dermatitis (eczema) on your skin. Elidel cream is a prescription medicine used on the skin for treatment of mild to moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children at least 2 years old.

Dosage and direction

Use Elidel exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take Elidel by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Wash your hands before and after applying Elidel cream, unless you are treating eczema on your hands. If you are applying the medicine to another person, wash your hands with soap and water afterward. Apply a thin layer of Elidel cream to clean, dry skin and rub in gently. Use the smallest amount needed to control the symptoms of eczema. Use Elidel only on skin that is affected by eczema.

Precautions

To make sure Elidel is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: skin cancer; a bacterial or viral skin infection (including herpes or chickenpox); Netherton's syndrome (a genetic skin disorder); or a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Elidel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to get sick from a virus. Tell your doctor if you have been exposed to any illness, or if you have any signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, or flu symptoms.

Contraindications

You should not use Elidel if you are allergic to pimecrolimus, or if you have a bacterial or viral skin infection (including herpes or chicken pox).
Not approved for anyone younger than 2 years old.
Do not breastfeed.
It is not known if pimecrolimus topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Use Elidel only on skin that is affected by eczema. Avoid applying to an area that may be affected with skin cancer.

Possible side effect

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Elidel: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have: severe pain, burning, itching, or stinging; new or worsened skin symptoms (warts, unusual rash or skin lesions, blistering or oozing); a mole that has changed in size or color; or symptoms of a viral skin infection - cold sores around your mouth, skin sores or blisters, scabs, itching, tingling.
Common Elidel side effects may include: burning, stinging, or soreness of treated skin (especially during the first few days of treatment); viral skin infection; runny or stuffy nose; headache; or fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, cough, swollen glands.

Drug interaction

Other drugs may affect pimecrolimus topical, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Missed dose

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.