What is Elidel?

Elidel (pimecrolimus) is an immunosuppressant. It works by decreasing your body's immune system to help slow down the growth of atopic dermatitis (eczema) on your skin.

Elidel Cream is used to treat severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) when other medications have not worked well.

Important information

You should not use Elidel if you are allergic to pimecrolimus, or if you have a bacterial or viral skin infection (including herpes or chicken pox).

Before using Elidel Cream, tell your doctor if you have skin cancer or any type of skin infection, Netherton's syndrome, a weak immune system, kidney disease, or swelling, redness, or irritation over large skin areas.

Avoid applying Elidel Cream to an area that may be affected with skin cancer.

Elidel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to get sick from a virus. Tell your doctor if you have been exposed to any illness, or if you have any signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, or flu symptoms.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 6 weeks of treatment.

Before using Elidel

You should not use Elidel if you are allergic to pimecrolimus, or if you have a bacterial or viral skin infection (including herpes or chicken pox).

To make sure Elidel is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions:

skin cancer or any type of skin infection;
Netherton's syndrome (a genetic skin disorder);
a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicines); or
swelling, redness, or irritation over large skin areas.

How should I use Elidel?

Use Elidel only on the skin, exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Elidel Cream is not for long-term use.

Use Elidel only on skin areas affected with eczema. Stop using the medicine once your symptoms have cleared up, unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

Elidel Cream is for use on the skin only (topical). Do not get the cream in your eyes, nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum.

Wash your hands before and after using this medicine, unless you are using the medication to treat a hand condition.

Apply the medicine only to clean, dry skin. Use the smallest amount needed to apply a thin layer to the skin areas diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. Rub in gently.

Do not cover the treated skin with a bandage. Bandaging can increase the amount of drug you absorb through your skin and may cause harmful effects. Do not bathe, shower, or swim right after applying Elidel. Water may wash off the medicine.

Right after applying Elidel, you may need to rub in a moisturizing cream or lotion to keep your skin from getting too dry. Ask your doctor about which cream or lotion to use.

Elidel can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to get sick from a virus such as chicken pox or herpes (cold sores or shingles). Tell your doctor if you have been exposed to any illness, or if you have any signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat, or flu symptoms.

Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 6 weeks of treatment.

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Keep the medicine tube tightly capped when not in use.