Dermatology Protopic^®

INFORMATION FOR THE PATIENT

Read this important information before you start using Protopic and each time you refill your prescription. This summary is not meant to take the place of your doctor’s instructions. If you have any questions or want more information about Protopic, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

What is Protopic?
Protopic is a prescription medicine that is used to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children age 2 years and older. You should use Protopic for short or intermittent long periods of treatment. Intermittent means starting and stopping repeatedly as directed by your doctor. Protopic can be applied to all affected areas of the skin including the face and neck. Protopic should be used only to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis) that has been diagnosed by a doctor. Do not use Protopic to treat any other skin condition unless you have been told to do so by your doctor.

Do not use Protopic if you are

• breast-feeding
• allergic to any medicines including tacrolimus or any of the ingredients of Protopic. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What Should I Tell My Doctor Before Using Protopic?
Before you start using Protopic, be sure to tell your doctor if you are:

• using any other prescription medicines.
• receiving any form of light therapy (phototherapy or UV) to your skin.
• using any over-the-counter medicines or any natural/herbal remedies.
• using any other type of skin product.
• pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Can I Use Protopic While Taking Other Medicines?
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking any new medicines while using Protopic. Before you use any other ointments, lotions, or creams on your skin, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.

How Do I Use Protopic?

• Wash your hands before applying Protopic.
• If your hands are not being treated, wash your hands with soap and water after applying Protopic. This should remove any ointment left on the hands.
• Apply a thin layer of Protopic to all skin areas that your doctor has diagnosed as eczema. Try to cover the affected areas completely. Most people find that a pea-sized amount squeezed from the tube covers an area about the size of a two-inch circle.
• Protopic should be applied twice a day, about 12 hours apart.
• 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 Protopic. This could wash off the ointment.
• Before applying Protopic after a bath or shower, be sure your skin is completely dry.

Protopic comes in two strengths (0.03% or 0.1%). The 0.1% strength is for use in patients age 16 and over. The 0.03% strength is for patients age 2 and over. Your doctor will decide what strength is best for you. Protopic must be used only on your skin. Do not swallow Protopic.

How Long Should I Use Protopic?
Protopic usually begins to provide relief from the symptoms of eczema within 1 week. It is important to use Protopic as instructed by your doctor. If you do not notice an improvement in your eczema or if your eczema gets worse within the first few weeks of treatment, tell your doctor.

What Should I Avoid While Using Protopic?
Avoid sunlight and sun lamps, tanning salons, and treatment with UVA or UVB light. If you need to be outdoors after applying Protopic, wear clothing that protects the treated area from the sun. In addition, you should ask your doctor what other type of protection from the sun you should use.

What Are The Most Common Side Effects Of Protopic?
As with all medicines, Protopic can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Protopic are stinging, a burning feeling or itching of the skin that is being treated with Protopic. These side effects are usually mild to moderate and usually go away after the first few days of using Protopic. Less common side effects include acne, swollen or infected hair follicles, headache, increased sensitivity of the skin to hot or cold temperature, or flu-like symptoms (common cold, congestion, upper respiratory infection).