Common Questions about Pimecrolimus (Elidel)

Is pimecrolimus 1% a steroid?

No, pimecrolimus is not a steroid. It is an immune-mediating medicine. Topical steroids (creams, ointments) are commonly used to treat eczema. Your doctor may prescribe Elidel (topical pimecrolimus) if your eczema does not respond to steroids.

Is pimecrolimus safe for the face?

Yes, pimecrolimus cream 1% is safe for the face and neck. However, you should avoid getting the medicine into your eyes, nose, ears, or mouth.

How quickly does pimecrolimus start working?

You should notice some improvement in eczema after one week of using topical pimecrolimus. The full benefits of pimecrolimus may be visible after about 3 weeks of use. Talk to your doctor if you don’t see any improvement after 6 weeks.

Can you use pimecrolimus daily?

Yes, you can use topical pimecrolimus twice daily for up to 6 weeks or as recommended by your doctor.

Does pimecrolimus help seborrheic dermatitis?

Yes, topical pimecrolimus can be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, a common type of eczema that affects the scalp.

Does pimecrolimus treat rosacea?

Pimecrolimus is not an FDA approved treatment for rosacea. However, some studies have found it benefits people with mild to moderate inflammatory rosacea.

What’s the difference between pimecrolimus and tacrolimus?

Both pimecrolimus (Elidel) and tacrolimus (Protopic) are topical calcineurin inhibitors that are used to treat atopic dermatitis. Protopic (tacrolimus) is an ointment and is usually prescribed for more severe eczema. Elidel (pimecrolimus) is a cream and is used to treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.

What is the price of pimecrolimus without insurance?

Without insurance,pimecrolimus can be as high as $287.17, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $89.20 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.

What is the price of pimecrolimus] with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on pimecrolimus—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for pimecrolimus. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.