ELIDEL
16 Aug 2019
Generic Name : PIMECROLIMUS TOPICAL
ABSTRACT –
Elidel is used to treat skin diseases like Eczema in patients who are not allowed to have other eczema medications like topical steroids. The drug is known to work as an immunosuppressant by reducing the immunity of the body so that the growth of atopic dermatitis is reduced on the skin. It relieves the patients with symptoms like redness, itching, and irritation on the skin. This medication belongs to the class of drugs called as Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (TCIs).
DOSAGE –
- Elidel has to be taken as directed by the doctors.
- Adult and pediatric dosages:
Apply a thin layer of cream on the infected area twice a day and rub it gently.
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Vomiting
- Breathlessness
- Dryness in throat
- Feeling of discomfort or illness
- Change in hearing
- Cold or flu-like symptoms
- Congestion (ear or nasal)
- Pain in the ear
- Ear drainage
- Fever
- Hoarseness
- Itching
- Joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle ache and pain
- Nausea
- Pain
- Runny Nose and cough producing mucus
- Diarrhea
- Wheezing
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, hands, or feet
- Itchy, fluid-filled and raised bumps on just one area of the body
- Fast heartbeats
- Rashes
- Joint pain, stiffness or swelling
- Trouble in breathing or swallowing
- Blistering and irritation on the skin
- Blurred vision
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
MODERATE INTERACTIONS OF ELIDEL ARE:
- Duvelisib
- Fostamatinib
- Sirolimus
- Tacrolimus
- Temsirolimus
Elidel has no major interactions and has moderate interactions with 5 different drugs.
PRECAUTIONS –
- Pharmacist must be consulted before the consumption of this drug as it contains components and inactive ingredients which may lead to allergic reactions.
- It is utmost necessary to discuss any medical history related to skin infections, chicken pox, shingles, use of light therapy, and weakness in immune system,
- Skin becomes more sensitive towards sun while using this cream. So, sunlight, tanning booths and sunlamps should be avoided.
- In case of skin blisters or severe redness while using this medication, doctor should be consulted immediately.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION WITH ELIDEL:
- Use of Elidel in pregnancy should be avoided.
- Studies in animal pregnancy have shown adverse effects on fetus. But no adequate studies have been found in humans to access the damage involved.
- Do not nurse while on drug course, as this drug may transfer through breast milk and may harm a newborn.
WARNINGS –
- The use of Elidel is not recommended for those who have a medical history of rare genetic disorders like Netherton’s syndrome.
- This medication is not to be prescribed to patients who has recently gone for organ transplant.
- Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.