From the Research
Protopic (tacrolimus ointment) should be used for short periods, typically 2-4 weeks, until symptoms of atopic dermatitis improve, with a maintenance regimen of twice weekly application to prevent recurrence, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Considerations
- The treatment duration may vary based on the individual's condition, severity, and response to treatment.
- For children, treatment duration should be limited to 3 weeks with reassessment by a doctor.
- Long-term continuous use is generally not recommended due to potential side effects and concerns about systemic absorption.
- The medication works by suppressing the immune response in the skin, reducing inflammation and itching.
Evidence Summary
- A 2020 consensus based on a 15-year experience with topical tacrolimus in adult atopic dermatitis found that the application of tacrolimus ointment twice daily reduces AD severity and pruritus, and maintenance therapy with an intermittent application of tacrolimus to recurrent skin sites decreases frequency and severity of relapses 1.
- A 2018 review of the safety and benefits of tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of adult and pediatric atopic dermatitis found that available data suggest that TAC-O is effective and well tolerated, and can improve quality of life 2.
- A 2015 Cochrane review of topical tacrolimus for atopic dermatitis found that tacrolimus 0.1% was better than low-potency corticosteroids, pimecrolimus 1%, and tacrolimus 0.03%, and that both tacrolimus formulations seemed to be safe, with no evidence found to support the possible increased risk of malignancies or skin atrophy with their use 3.
Recommendations
- Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, as treatment duration varies based on your condition, severity, and response to treatment.
- If symptoms persist beyond the recommended treatment period, consult your healthcare provider for reassessment rather than continuing use indefinitely.
- Consider a maintenance regimen of applying Protopic twice weekly to prevent recurrence after initial improvement.