Pimecrolimus Topical Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 4, 2024.

Usual Adult Dose for Atopic Dermatitis

Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily and rub in gently and completely

Comments:

• Therapy should be discontinued when signs (e.g., itch, rash, redness) resolve.
• If symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks, patients should be reexamined by their health care provider to confirm the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis.

Use: As second-line therapy for the short-term and noncontinuous chronic treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised patients, who have failed to respond adequately to other topical prescription treatments, or when those treatments are not advisable

Usual Pediatric Dose for Atopic Dermatitis

2 years and older:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily and rub in gently and completely

Comments:

• The long-term safety and effects of this drug on the developing immune system are unknown.
• Therapy should be discontinued when signs (e.g., itch, rash, redness) resolve.
• If symptoms persist beyond 6 weeks, patients should be reexamined by their health care provider to confirm the diagnosis of atopic dermatitis.

Use: As second-line therapy for the short-term and noncontinuous chronic treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in non-immunocompromised patients, who have failed to respond adequately to other topical prescription treatments, or when those treatments are not advisable

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

US BOXED WARNINGS:

• LONG-TERM SAFETY OF TOPICAL CALCINEURIN INHIBITORS HAS NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED. Prolonged systemic use of calcineurin inhibitors for sustained immunosuppression in animal studies and transplant patients following systemic administration has been associated with an increased risk of infections, lymphomas, and skin malignancies. These risks are associated with the intensity and duration of immunosuppression. Although a causal relationship has not been established, rare cases of malignancy (e.g., skin and lymphoma) have been reported in patients treated with topical calcineurin inhibitors; therefore, continuous long-term use of topical calcineurin inhibitors in any age group should be avoided, and application limited to areas of involvement with atopic dermatitis

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 2 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug may be used on all skin areas, including the head and face, neck and intertriginous areas, except on mucous membranes.
• Continuous long-term use of this drug should be avoided, and application should be limited to areas of atopic dermatitis.
• This drug should not be used with occlusive dressings to avoid the risk of systemic exposure.
• The hands should be washed after application.
• Emollients can be applied after using this drug.
• Application should be initiated at the first sign of itching, and/or persistent redness, and/or thickening of the skin, to prevent progression to flares of atopic dermatitis.

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer