Protopic review
Eczema - Atopic Dermatitis - Topical Treatment with Elidel or ProtopicAbout.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board Protopic and Elidel are two medications used to treat eczema that are classified as calcineurin inhibitors. Calcineurin is a chemical involved in the inflammation process, so blocking that chemical reduces inflammation. The calcineurin inhibitors change some of the functions of the immune system that specifically cause the rash of eczema, but don't suppress the whole immune system. They are chemically related to the oral medication cyclosporine, which can be used to treat psoriasis. The main side effect seen with use of Protopic and Elidel is itching and burning at the site immediately after application. These symptoms usually last about 15 minutes and resolve after a couple of days. In 2006, the FDA updated the labeling to include a warning about a possible risk of cancer with these medications. Because long-term side effects of Protopic and Elidel are not known, they should not be the first prescription treatment you try for eczema. They are often prescribed if topical steroids are not controlling your eczema symptoms. Protopic and Elidel should not be used if you have a skin infection including viral infections like chicken pox, herpes, or molluscum contagiousum.