Protopic 0.1% Ointment

Protopic 0.1% Ointment contains tacrolimus 0.1%, a topical calcineurin inhibitor used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and adolescents who have not responded adequately to, or cannot tolerate, conventional topical treatments. Unlike topical corticosteroids, tacrolimus works through a different immune-modulating mechanism and does not carry the risk of skin thinning (atrophy) associated with long-term steroid use, making it a useful option for sensitive areas such as the face, eyelids, and neck.

As Protopic 0.1% Ointment is a prescription-only medicine, it is supplied through DoctorOnCall only after an online consultation with a doctor, who will confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity and location of your eczema, and determine whether tacrolimus is an appropriate and safe treatment for you.

Tacrolimus works by inhibiting calcineurin, an enzyme involved in activating T-cells (a type of immune cell), which in turn reduces the release of inflammatory chemical messengers that drive the redness, itching, and skin barrier disruption seen in atopic dermatitis; because it targets the immune response rather than causing generalised suppression of skin cell turnover as steroids do, it does not cause the skin-thinning effect associated with prolonged corticosteroid use.

Apply a thin layer of Protopic 0.1% Ointment to the affected areas of skin twice daily, gently rubbing it in until fully absorbed, and continue treatment until the skin clears; once clear, your doctor may advise reducing to a maintenance regimen of two applications per week to prevent flare-ups, and hands should be washed after application unless the hands themselves are being treated.

The typical dose for adults and adolescents (16 years and above) is a thin layer of Protopic 0.1% Ointment applied twice daily to affected areas until clearance, with your doctor guiding any adjustment to frequency for maintenance therapy; do not apply more often or in a thicker layer than prescribed.

Protopic 0.1% Ointment is generally stable for around 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when unopened, so always check the expiry date printed on the tube or carton before use.

Store Protopic 0.1% Ointment below 25°C to 30°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

• Known hypersensitivity to tacrolimus or any other ingredient in the ointment
• Use on skin with an active, untreated bacterial, viral, or fungal infection
• Use under occlusive dressings or bandages unless specifically advised by your doctor
• Conditions associated with a weakened immune system, or a personal history of skin malignancy, without specific doctor approval
• Use on Netherton’s syndrome or other conditions with significantly impaired skin barrier, due to increased systemic absorption risk

• Alcohol may cause facial flushing or skin warmth when combined with Protopic 0.1% Ointment
• Concurrent use of other topical treatments on the same area should only be done under medical advice
• Phototherapy (UV light treatment) is not recommended while using tacrolimus, as combined use may increase skin cancer risk
• Live vaccines should be discussed with your doctor before administration during treatment

• Apply only a thin layer — more product does not improve results and may increase side effects
• Minimise sun exposure and use sunscreen or protective clothing on treated areas, as tacrolimus can increase photosensitivity
• Avoid using occlusive dressings or bandages over treated skin unless directed by your doctor
• Do not apply to skin with active infection until it has been treated and cleared
• Attend follow-up appointments so your doctor can monitor your skin’s response and adjust the regimen as needed
• Wash your hands after application unless your hands are the area being treated

Protopic 0.1% Ointment is intended for patients whose eczema is not adequately controlled with, or who cannot use, standard topical corticosteroids, and its steroid-free mechanism makes it particularly suited to delicate areas like the face and neck where long-term steroid use raises thinning concerns. As a prescription immunomodulator, ongoing doctor follow-up is part of safe, effective treatment, and DoctorOnCall’s doctors remain available for review through further online consultations as needed.