From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL STUDIES Three randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, multi-center, Phase 3 studies were conducted in 589 pediatric patients ages 3 months-17 years old to evaluate ELIDEL ® (pimecrolimus) Cream 1% for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis The answer is pimecrolimus (ELIDEL) Cream 1%.
- It is used for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.
- Studies support its use in patients 2 years and older. 1
From the Research
For eczema treatment, pimecrolimus, tacrolimus, and moderate-potency topical corticosteroids like triamcinolone 0.1% or mometasone furoate 0.1% are among the most effective options, as they improve and maintain multiple eczema outcomes with high-certainty evidence 2. When choosing a topical steroid for eczema, consider the severity of the condition and the area of the body affected.
- For mild cases or sensitive areas like the face, low-potency options such as hydrocortisone 1% or desonide 0.05% are preferable.
- For moderate or severe eczema, moderate-potency topical corticosteroids probably result in more participants achieving treatment success, defined as cleared or marked improvement on Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) of clinician-reported signs of eczema, compared to mild-potency topical corticosteroids 3.
- For severe or thick-skinned areas, higher-potency options like fluocinonide 0.05% or betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% may be needed, but there is uncertain evidence to support any advantage of very potent over potent topical corticosteroids 3. Some key points to consider when using topical corticosteroids for eczema include:
- Applying a thin layer to affected areas once or twice daily for 1-2 weeks during flares.
- Limiting use to the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms, typically 2-4 weeks maximum for medium to high-potency steroids, to avoid side effects like skin thinning.
- Applying after bathing when skin is slightly damp and following with a moisturizer to enhance effectiveness.
- Topical steroids work by reducing inflammation, suppressing immune responses, and constricting blood vessels in the skin, which helps relieve itching, redness, and swelling associated with eczema flares. It's also important to note that topical calcineurin inhibitors like pimecrolimus and tacrolimus can be effective alternatives to topical corticosteroids, especially for sensitive areas or for patients who are concerned about the potential side effects of topical corticosteroids 4.