Indications
Elidel (active ingredient: pimecrolimus) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Atopic Dermatitis: Elidel is used for the short-term and intermittent long-term treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (eczema) in patients aged 2 years and older, who are not adequately responsive to conventional topical therapies.
Elidel belongs to a class of drugs known as topical calcineurin inhibitors, which work by inhibiting the activation of T-lymphocytes and the release of inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and symptoms associated with atopic dermatitis.
Uses and Dosage
Elidel Cream is applied directly to the skin and should be used twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Before using the medication, wash your hands with soap and water. Then, apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area of skin and rub it gently. After applying the medication, make sure to wash your hands again unless your hands are also being treated. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, it should be applied after using Elidel Cream.
To minimize irritation when using Elidel Cream, avoid getting it in your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not apply it to open wounds or infected areas. Also, do not cover the treated area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless instructed to do so by your doctor, and avoid bathing, showering, or swimming right after applying the medication.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Pimecrolimus:
- Burning
- Fever
- Chills
- Body aches
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Swollen glands
- Stinging
- Viral skin infection
Serious Side Effects of Elidel:
- A temporary feeling of warmth and/or burning
- Any other signs or symptoms that are different from your usual
- Blisters around the lips, nose, or chin (cold sores)
- Blisters, cracks, pain or swelling around the groin (genital herpes)
- Clusters of itchy or painful blisters around the face or neck (eczema herpecticum)
- Folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles, sometimes causing pustules)
- Irritation, itching or reddening
- Painful, red skin rash or blister-like sores (shingles)
- Rash, pain, feeling of prickling, dryness, flaking, swelling
Form and Strength
Elidel (Pimecrolimus) is available in the following forms and strength:
Elidel: Cream
- 1%
Caution
- ELIDEL Cream is not intended for long-term use, as there is an exceedingly small risk of developing skin cancer or lymphoma with its use. A link between ELIDEL Cream and cancer has not been established, but research suggests that there is a small risk associated with the use of pimecrolimus or tacrolimus skin medications.
- 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). If you have any of these conditions, you should speak to your doctor before using Elidel.
- Avoid sun exposure during treatment with Elidel, even when the medicine is not on your skin. If you need to be outdoors after applying Elidel, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.
- Before using Elidel Cream, tell your doctor if you have skin cancer or any type of skin infection, Netherton's syndrome, a weak immune system, kidney disease, or swelling, redness, or irritation over large skin areas.
- Elidel should not be used on areas of skin affected by any of these conditions. Avoid sun exposure during treatment with Elidel, even when the medicine is not on your skin. If you need to be outdoors after applying Elidel, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen.
- As Elidel can lower the white blood cells that help your body fight infections, it can make it easier for you to get sick from a virus. 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, you should tell your doctor right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Elidel safe to use during pregnancy?
Elidel is classified as a pregnancy category C medication, which means that its safety has not been established in pregnant women. Therefore, it is not recommended that Elidel is used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How often should Elidel be applied?
Elidel should be applied once or twice daily to the affected area, depending on the severity of symptoms. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and use the medicine exactly as directed.
How long does it take for Elidel to work?
The effects of Elidel can usually be seen within one to two weeks of starting treatment. However, it may take up to four weeks for the full effects to be seen.
Can I use Elidel on my face?
Yes, Elidel can be used on the face, but it should be used with caution. Elidel should be applied thinly and only to the affected areas, avoiding contact with the eyes, mouth, and other sensitive areas of the skin.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC557066/
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Elidel.aspx
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/e/elidel.pdf
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021302s018lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-22383/elidel-topical/details
- https://www.drugs.com/elidel.html
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