What is Elidel: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Elidel overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Elidel

Generic Names:

  • Pimecrolimus

Uses:

  • Treats atopic dermatitis, which is a form of eczema.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Dermatological Agent

Forms:

  • Cream

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What form(s) does Elidel come in

  • Cream

What are common Elidel doses?

  • Tube 30GM of 1%

  • Tube 60GM of 1%

  • Tube 100GM of 1%

Common Elidel prescriptions

  • Elidel
    30gm of 1% tube

  • Elidel
    60gm of 1% tube

  • Elidel
    100gm of 1% tube of cream

How to take Elidel

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you apply this medicine, unless you are treating your hands.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply this medicine. Do not bathe or swim right after you use this medicine. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, put it on it after this medicine.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you apply this medicine, unless you are treating your hands.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply this medicine. Do not bathe or swim right after you use this medicine. If your doctor recommends a moisturizer, put it on it after this medicine.

  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

Elidel contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to pimecrolimus.

Elidel warnings

  • This medicine should not be used every day for a long period of time. Stop using it when your eczema gets better. Ask your doctor what to do if the eczema comes back.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other skin problems (including Netherton syndrome) or a weak immune system.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Virus infections, such as chicken pox, shingles, cold sores, or warts

  • A few people who have used this medicine have developed cancer of the lymph glands or skin. It is not known if this medicine caused the cancer.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds. Do not receive light therapy (phototherapy) during treatment.

Elidel interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other skin problems (including Netherton syndrome) or a weak immune system.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Virus infections, such as chicken pox, shingles, cold sores, or warts

  • A few people who have used this medicine have developed cancer of the lymph glands or skin. It is not known if this medicine caused the cancer.

  • This medicine should not be used every day for a long period of time. Stop using it when your eczema gets better. Ask your doctor what to do if the eczema comes back.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds. Do not receive light therapy (phototherapy) during treatment.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Elidel side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Swollen, painful, or tender glands in your neck, armpit, or groin

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Skin infection or severe skin redness, swelling, or burning

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild burning, warmth, itching, or soreness when you apply the cream

  • Runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat