Topical Tacrolimus

What is topical Tacrolimus and how does it work?

Tacrolimus ointment is not a topical steroid. It is an ointment that reduces the inflammation in affected skin and works in a completely different way to other treatments such as topical steroids.

Topical tacrolimus can be used on Adults and Children (over 2 years) for the treatment of atopic eczema. It is also sometimes prescribed to treat other skin conditions for which it is not licensed such as psoriasis and vitiligo.

How often is topical Tacrolimus treatment and how do I apply it?

Topical Tacrolimus should be applied as a thin layer to affected areas of your skin. It can be used on most parts of the body; however it tends to work best on the face and neck.

Topical Tacrolimus should be applied to clean, dry skin that has not had an emollient applied to the area within an hour (to avoid diluting the tacrolimus and making it less effective).

Topical Tacrolimus is usually applied twice a day initially, once in the morning and once in the evening, then this is reduced to once daily after 2 weeks. Your healthcare professional will advise on maintenance treatment which includes reducing the strength of the topical Tacrolimus and/or the frequency of application.

What are the possible side effects of topical Tacrolimus treatment?

Topical Tacrolimus can cause a burning sensation and itching to the affected area however this usually improves within one week of use.

Absorption through the skin is extremely low. Common side effects include redness, feeling of warmth, pain, increased skin sensitivity (especially to hot and cold), skin tingling, rash and facial flushing or skin irritation after drinking alcohol.

There is a theoretical concern about an increased risk of skin infections. If you notice the appearance of crusting or small blisters, please contact your healthcare professional.

Tacrolimus can make you burn more easily in the sun. Therefore, sunblock should be used on a regular basis to sun exposed areas that have been treated. You should not use sunbeds or receive ultraviolet phototherapy whilst using topical Tacrolimus.

When should topical Tacrolimus treatment not be used?

Topical Tacrolimus should not be used if you have a skin infection (bacterial, fungal or viral), liver failure, previous sensitivity or adverse reaction.

If you are allergic to macrolide antibiotics (e.g. Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Erythromycin) topical Tacrolimus is not advised.

For children less than 2 year’s topical Tacrolimus treatment is not recommended.

Avoid using the ointment inside your nose or mouth or in your eyes. If the ointment gets on any of these areas, it should be thoroughly wiped off and/or rinsed off with water.

Do not cover the skin being treated with bandages or wraps.

Fire Hazard

This is a paraffin-containing product and there is a danger that smoking or being near a naked flame can cause it to catch fire. To minimize this risk do not smoke, use naked flames (or be near people who are smoking or using naked flames) or be near anything which may cause a fire whilst these products are in contact with your skin, clothes, dressings or bandages.

Ensure that your clothes and bedding are changed regularly as the paraffin soaks into the fabrics and can potentially be a fire hazard. You should also be careful to make sure that the paraffin does not soak into chairs, seating or other furniture.

For Further Information

Medicines Information Patient Helpline:

Tel: 0191 282 3016. Available 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). This helpline is available for patients of the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals, to answer any questions they may have regarding their medicines.