Tacrolimus ointment is a topical immunosuppressant drug used to treat skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. It’s an immunosuppressive agent that helps the body reduce the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory mediators.
This article looks at the benefits of using tacrolimus ointment for skin conditions, how to apply it, precautions to take when using it, and if you can buy tacrolimus over the counter.
Table of Contents
What is tacrolimus ointment?
Tacrolimus ointment is an immunosuppressant drug that is applied topically to the skin. It is used to treat a variety of skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo.
In atopic dermatitis, the skin becomes inflamed and itchy. The patient may also experience dry skin and redness. The cause of this disease is not fully understood. It is thought that an overactive immune system may be involved.
In psoriasis, the skin also becomes inflamed and itchy. Patches of skin often appear scaly and red. The cause of psoriasis is also not fully understood. It is thought to involve abnormalities within certain cells of the skin.
Tacrolimus ointment is used to reduce inflammation in both conditions. It is applied to the affected areas of the skin once or twice a day.
How Does Tacrolimus Ointment Work?
Tacrolimus ointment is a topical immunosuppressant, which means it is applied to the skin and helps to reduce the body’s autoimmune response. It acts by inhibiting T-cell function and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that cause inflammation. In people with atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo, tacrolimus ointment can reduce inflammation, itching, and the formation of scabs on the skin.
Tacrolimus ointment is a type of immunosuppressive agent. Immunosuppressive agents are drugs that reduce the body’s autoimmune response. This can help people with certain conditions caused by an overactive immune system, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo.
Benefits of Using Tacrolimus Ointment
Tacrolimus ointment is used to treat skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. It can reduce the itching, scaling and blistering associated with these conditions.
- Atopic Dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition. It causes redness, swelling, itching and sometimes scaly, dry skin. The condition is common in infants, children and adults.
Tacrolimus ointment is the preferred treatment for atopic dermatitis in adults and children over two years old. It is applied twice a day and can be used alongside other topical or systemic treatments.
- Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a common, non-contagious, skin condition that causes red scaly patches on the skin. These patches can vary in size and can be on any part of the body. They can also be on the scalp, palms and soles of the feet. Some people may also have inflamed, sore joints.
Tacrolimus ointment is used to treat psoriasis in adults and children over two years old. It is applied once or twice a day. This is combined with other topical treatments such as vitamin D ointment, coal tar and salicylic acid.
How to Apply Tacrolimus Ointment?
You should apply tacrolimus ointment to the affected areas of the skin once or twice a day.
It is important to read the instructions for use on the packaging of the ointment.
Tacrolimus ointment should be applied to the affected areas of skin and rubbed in gently until it is fully absorbed. Avoid getting the ointment in the eyes, nose, mouth, or on the inside of the ears.
You should wash your hands before and after application. If you touch other parts of your skin or someone else’s skin, use clean gloves to avoid cross-contamination.
The ointment should not be used on the face. Instead, it should be applied to the upper arms and upper back.
Side Effects of Using Tacrolimus Ointment
Tacrolimus ointment is generally safe to use and has few side effects. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of.
Tacrolimus ointment may cause a burning sensation, irritation, stinging or a rash. If this occurs, you should stop using the ointment and consult a doctor.
Tacrolimus ointment can interact with other medications. You should let your doctor know what medications you are already taking if you are prescribed tacrolimus ointment.
You should not apply tacrolimus ointment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can You Buy Tacrolimus Ointment Over the Counter?
You can buy tacrolimus ointment over the counter in some countries. However, it is a prescription-only medication in the US, Canada, and the UK.
You can buy it online or from a chemist if you have a valid prescription from your doctor.
If you do buy tacrolimus ointment online, you should make sure that it’s authentic. You can do this by checking the packaging, brand name and expiry date.
You should also make sure that the website you buy it from is legitimate and trustworthy. You can do this by checking the website’s address and reviews.
Bottom line
Tacrolimus ointment is a topical immunosuppressant drug used to treat skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. It is applied to the skin once or twice a day and can be used alongside other topical or systemic treatments. It is a safe and effective treatment for these conditions, but it does have some side effects.
Tacrolimus ointment should be applied to the affected areas of the skin once or twice a day. It is important to read the instructions for use on the packaging of the ointment. The ointment should be applied to the affected areas of skin and rubbed in gently until it is fully absorbed.
If you have a skin condition and your doctor recommends tacrolimus ointment, it is important to follow the dosage and application instructions correctly to get the best results.
