Common Protopic uses
This medicine is an immunosuppressant used topically to treat itching and swelling associated with a certain skin condition (atopic dermatitis).
 

Before using Protopic
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, calcium channel blockers, St. John's Wort, and cimetidine. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have a history of Netherton's Syndrome. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you have infected atopic dermatitis (e.g., eczema herpeticum, herpes simplex, and varicella zoster). Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.
 

Protopic Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. TO USE THIS MEDICINE: apply a small amount of medicine to the affected area. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Wash your hands after applying this medicine, unless your hands are part of treated area. DO NOT BANDAGE OR WRAP the affected area unless directed otherwise by your doctor. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, apply it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
 

Protopic Cautions
DO NOT STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE without first checking with your doctor. Continue to apply this medicine for one week after your symptoms have improved. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. DO NOT TAKE SELDANE (terfenadine) OR HISMANAL (astemizole) while taking this medicine. AVOID EXPOSURE TO THE SUN, SUNLAMPS, OR TANNING BOOTHS while you are using this medicine. FOR WOMEN: THIS MEDICINE HAS BEEN SHOWN TO CAUSE HARM to the human fetus when given my mouth or by injection. IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine topically during pregnancy. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
 

Possible side effects of Protopic
SIDE EFFECTS, that may occur while taking this medicine include burning, tingling, itching, rash, acne, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience increased sensitivity to pain or touch; back pain; indigestion; weakness; nasal congestion; painful menstrual period in women; or muscle pain. IF YOU EXPERIENCE difficulty breathing; tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or if you develop a severe rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
 

Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions
 

If you take too much Protopic
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
 

Additional Protopic information
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.