Pimecrolimus

Do not use Pimecrolimus to areas of the skin affected by an active viral infection such as cold sores (herpes simplex) or chickenpox. Pimecrolimus may be associated with an increased risk of severe herpes simplex skin infection (eczema herpeticum). Therefore if you develop painful sores anywhere on your body, tell your doctor immediately. If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, it is advised to consult a doctor before using Pimecrolimus. Pimecrolimus is not recommended for children below 2 years of age. Avoid using Pimecrolimus on open wounds, windburned, sunburned, irritated, or dry skin. Do not cover or wrap the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor advises, as it may cause harmful effects. Avoid contact of topical Pimecrolimus with nose, mouth, or eyes as it may irritate. If Pimecrolimus comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as the fabric (bedding, clothing, dressings) that is in contact with Pimecrolimus catches fire and burns easily.  If you have a weakened immune system (immunocompromised), have erythroderma (redness of almost the entire body), or a skin condition called Netherton’s syndrome (a disorder that affects the skin, hair and immune system), and skin malignancies (tumours), please inform your doctor before starting Pimecrolimus. Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight, sun lamps, and tanning beds while using Pimecrolimus. If you are outdoors after applying Pimecrolimus, wear loose-fitting clothing, and appropriate sunscreen, and minimise the time you spend in the sun.

Drug-Drug Interaction: Pimecrolimus may interact with antifungals (fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole), calcium channel blockers (diltiazem, verapamil), antiulcer (cimetidine) antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin,  metronidazole),  androgenic hormones (danazol),  immunosuppressant  (cyclosporine), HIV protease inhibitors (indinavir, ritonavir, delavirdine), anti-TB (isoniazid), an antidepressant (nefazodone, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine), oral contraceptives (birth control pills).

Drug-Food Interaction: Pimecrolimus may interact with alcohol. Therefore, avoid the consumption of alcohol with Pimecrolimus.

Drug-Disease Interaction: If you have skin areas that have cancers or pre-cancers, Netherton's syndrome, skin infections (including chickenpox or herpes), or a weak immune system, inform your doctor before taking Pimecrolimus.

• Eat foods rich in quercetin (a flavonoid), such as apples, cherries, broccoli, spinach and blueberries.

• Consuming food rich in probiotics helps in developing the immune system against allergies.

• Limit intake of food that might trigger allergies, such as dairy products, soy, eggs, and nuts.

• Avoid the consumption of foods with excess sugar as it may flare up inflammation.

• Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and fish in your diet.

• Reducing stress and maintaining a regular sleep pattern would be helpful.

• Avoiding getting in contact with harsh soaps, detergents and rough fabrics.

• Use mild soap while taking baths and prefer warm baths. Avoid harsh products on your skin.

• Do not scratch or pick your skin to avoid getting the affected area infected.

• Avoid contact of Pimecrolimus with nose, mouth or eyes. In case Pimecrolimus comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly.

• If you have extensive eczema, you may need to stop using Pimecrolimus before having any vaccinations. Your doctor will be able to tell you if this is necessary.

• Consult your doctor if no improvement occurs after 2 weeks or if your eczema gets worse.

• Do not apply Pimecrolimus to areas of the skin affected by an active viral infection such as cold sores (herpes simplex) or chickenpox.

• Do not use Pimecrolimus without a break for a long time unless told to do so by the doctor.