Protopic (Tacrolimus) for Psoriasis

Overview
Protopic is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis children and adults. Protopic is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat psoriasis on the face or genitals. Protopic is also known by its drug name, tacrolimus.

Protopic is an immunosuppressant, or drug that suppresses the immune system. It is believed that Protopic works in cases of psoriasis by controlling inflammation.

How do I take it?
Protopic is available as a topical ointment. Protopic is applied to the affected areas twice a day. Protopic should not be applied to broken or infected skin.

Avoid exposure to people with viruses such as chickenpox, shingles, and measles while using Protopic. If you believe you have been exposed to a virus, notify your doctor.

Ask your doctor about drinking alcohol while using Protopic.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds while using Protopic. Cover skin with clothing or sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher if you go out into the sunshine.

Do not wrap or apply bandages to the area treated with Protopic ointment unless your doctor instructs you to.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when using Protopic.

Side effects
Side effects of Protopic may include stinging, burning, or itching. These symptoms may ease after a few days when your body becomes accustomed to the drug.

In rare cases, Protopic may increase your risk of developing lymphoma or skin cancer. The risk is increased if you apply Protopic to broken or infected skin.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Protopic — RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/protopic-drug.htm