Protopic® Ointment 0.03% 10g

What is Protopic 0.03% ointment used for​​​?

Protopic contains the active ingredient Tacrolimus. Tacrolimus belongs to a group of medications known as topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCI). TCIs are used to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis) by acting on the skin's immune system to reduce inflammation, redness and itching of the skin. They are non-steroidal alternatives for treatment of Eczema.

Protopic ointment comes in 2 different strengths - 0.03% and 0.1%. Protopic 0.03% ointment can be used by adults, adolescents and children from the age of 2 years, while Protopic 0.1% ointment can only be used by adults and adolescents 16 years of age and above.

Dosage and how to use​

• Follow the instructions on your medication label and use this medication as prescribed by your doctor. 
• Before application, wash your skin and hands with a gentle, eczema-approved cleanser and dry the whole area to be treated.
• Apply eczema-approved moisturiser after washing and drying the skin.
• 2h after applying your moisturiser, apply a thin layer on the affected areas according to your doctor’s instructions.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after application.
• Avoid applying the medication too near your eyes, mouth and nose (unless specifically instructed) as it may cause irritation
• Flush the area thoroughly with water if the medication accidentally gets into your eyes, mouth, and nose
• Do not cover the treated skin with bandages, dressings or wraps. You can wear normal clothing.
• If you feel that the medication is not working well, do not apply more than instructed. Check with your doctor.

How much topical medication should I be applying?

It is important to get the dose right when using topical medications to avoid the risk of over (or under) application. The standard measure called the fingertip unit (FTU) can be used to help you measure the amount of topical medication to apply to a particular area of the body.

Rule of thumb: One hand-sized area (i.e., the area of one side of the hand) of skin requires 0.5 fingertip unit of ointment.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forgot to apply a dose of this medication, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the dose if it is almost time for the next dose. Apply your next dose at the usual time. Do not apply two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Protopic?

Certain side effects of this medication are common and may even disappear during treatment. If any of the following side effects do not go away or are severe, consult your doctor.

The most common side effects at the site of application are warm sensation (sometimes burning), stinging or itching of the skin. This is usually mild to moderate and most common during the first few days of treatment. It usually lessens as your skin heals.

What precautions should I take?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• You suspect that you have an infection on your skin e.g. chickenpox or herpes
• You have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised)
• You are on ultraviolet light therapy, using sun lamps or tanning bed     
• You have a history of skin cancer     

Handling and storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep this medication away from children.
• Throw away all expired medications. Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

The above information answers some common questions about this medicine. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

References

https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/medications/117/Topical-Calcineurin-Inhibitors