Pimecrolimus (Elidel) Tips from Pharmacists

• Before starting treatment with pimecrolimus, tell your doctor if you have a history of skin malignancy (cancer) or lymphoma. This medicine can potentially increase the risk of these serious health problems, although a direct link has not been established.

• Pimecrolimus is for external use only. Do not use it near your eyes or inside your nose, mouth, ears, or vagina. Wash your eyes thoroughly with water if the medicine gets into your eyes. Seek care from an eye doctor if you have persistent eye irritation.

• Avoid bathing, showering, or swimming immediately after pimecrolimus application to avoid washing off the medicine.

• It is common to have mild skin irritation (burning, stinging, redness, warmth) for the first few days. Tell your doctor if these symptoms continue after one week of using pimecrolimus.