Product Details: Elidel (Pimecrolimus)

Brand Name Options - Manufacturer: Novartis

Description

This medicine is a topical immunosuppressant used in certain patients to treat itching and swelling of the skin associated with eczema (atopic dermatitis). It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine comes with a medication guide. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: Wash your hands and the affected areas before applying this medicine. Completely dry the affected areas. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. DO NOT BANDAGE OR WRAP the affected area unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Wash your hands immediately after using this medicine, unless your hands are part of the treated area. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Do not freeze. Use this medicine regularly to receive the most benefit from it. Using this medicine at the same times each day will help you to remember. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, apply it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Cautions

DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. IT MAY TAKE 2 TO 3 WEEKS for this medicine to work. Do not stop using this medicine without checking with your doctor. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or use this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. DO NOT apply this medicine to open wounds or infected areas. BEFORE YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL OR DENTAL TREATMENTS, EMERGENCY CARE, OR SURGERY, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine. AVOID EXPOSURE TO THE SUN, SUNLAMPS, OR TANNING BOOTHS while you are using this medicine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period. THIS MEDICINE MAY LOWER YOUR RESISTANCE TO INFECTION. Prevent infection by avoiding contact with people with colds or other infections. Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have thoroughly washed your hands first. AVOID GETTING THIS MEDICINE IN YOUR EYES or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If you do get the medicine on any of these areas, rinse well with water. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any ointments, creams, or lotions. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, apply it after applying this medicine. CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN USING THIS MEDICINE IN CHILDREN because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the medicine. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while using this medicine.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS, that may occur while taking this medicine include burning, itching, redness, or irritation at the application site; ear pain; vomiting; diarrhea; and headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience swelling or tenderness of the glands in your neck or under your arms, sore throat, fever, cough, nasal congestion, stomach pain, warts, cold sores, painful areas or blisters on your skin, or painful menstrual periods. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include severe rash or hives, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Pimecrolimus