Drug information of pimecrolimus

pimecrolimus

Drug group:

Pimecrolimus 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. Pimecrolimus topical (for the skin) is used to treat severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) when other medications have not worked well.

Mechanism of effect

Mechanism in atopic dermatitis is not known; however, pimecrolimus inhibits T-cell activation by blocking the transcription of early cytokines.

Pharmacodynamic

Pimecrolimus is a chemical that is used to treat atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Pharmacokinetics

After topical application, blood levels are routinely at or below the limit of quantification. In vitro studies indicate that plasma protein binding is 74% to 87%.No evidence of skin-mediated drug metabolism.

Drug indications

Atopic Dermatitis

Dosage

Adults and children 2 yr of age and older Topical Apply a thin layer to the affected skin twice daily. Reevaluate patient if symptoms persist beyond 6 wk of treatment.

Drug contraindications

hypersensitivity to drug or its components.

Side effects

nausea , Headache , constipation , abdominal pain , vomiting , Diarrhea , Rhinitis , fever , Nasopharyngitis , pharyngitis , application-site reaction

Alerts

Although a causal relationship has not been established, rare cases of malignancy (eg, skin, lymphoma) have been reported in patients treated with topical pimecrolimus. Avoid continuous long-term use of topical pimecrolimus and limit application to areas of atopic dermatitis

Points of recommendation

1-Avoid contact with eyes and areas of active cutaneous viral or bacterial infections.
2-Stop using when signs and symptoms resolve.
3-If signs and symptoms persist beyond 6 wk, reexamine patient to confirm atopic dermatitis diagnosis.
4-Avoid long-term continuous application

Pregnancy level

C

Related drugs

Tacrolimus


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