Cream

Novartis

Elidel (pimecrolimus) is used to treat eczema

Do not take Elidel (pimecrolimus) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Elidel (pimecrolimus) or to similar medications.

Before using Elidel (pimecrolimus), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking or planning to take any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition if you have high blood pressure if you have cold sores or shingles, Netherton's syndrome, receiving any form of light therapy (phototherapy, UVA, or UVB) to your skin, skin infection.

Avoid sunlight, sun lamps, tanning beds and treatment with UVA or UVB light while using Elidel (pimecrolimus). If you need to be outdoors after applying the cream, wear loose fitting clothing that protects the treated area from the sun. Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages, dressings, or wraps.

Other: Irritation at the site or sites of application including stinging, feeling of warmth or burning, runny nose

How much medicine you use and how often you use it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Elidel (pimecrolimus) you are using, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop using Elidel (pimecrolimus) without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before using Elidel (pimecrolimus). Do not use more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. You can use moisturizers with Elidel (pimecrolimus). Because the skin of patients with eczema can be very dry, you should discuss good skin care practices with your doctor to keep your skin healthy and moisturized. If you use moisturizers, apply them after Elidel (pimecrolimus). If you are a caregiver applying this cream to a patient, or if you are a patient who is not treating your hands, wash your hands with soap and water after applying Elidel (pimecrolimus). This should remove any cream left on the hands. Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages, dressings or wraps. However, you can wear normal clothing. Do not bathe, shower or swim right after applying Elidel (pimecrolimus). This could wash off the cream. Do not use Elidel (pimecrolimus) for any disorder other than that for which it was prescribed. Do not use Elidel (pimecrolimus) in the eyes or swallow it. If your condition gets worse at any time or you see no improvement after 6 weeks of treatment, contact your healthcare provider.

Store Elidel (pimecrolimus) at room temperature in a cool dry place, protect from heat and light. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. Do not freeze. Make sure the cap on the tube is tightly closed.