Side Effects of pimecrolimus topical: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Side Effects of pimecrolimus topical
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Side Effects of pimecrolimus topical: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Side Effects of pimecrolimus topical: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Pimecrolimus topical cream has been found to be effective in treating a variety of inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, nickel allergic contact dermatitis, and vitiligo. 1 , 19 , 13 , 22 , 17 , 12 , 27 , 29 , 24 , 7 , 9 , 10 , 23 , 2 , 20 , 18 , 15 .

Reasons for side effects

Pimecrolimus topical cream is a type of drug called a calcineurin inhibitor, which has immunosuppressive effects. This means that it can weaken the immune system of the skin, which can lead to side effects. 16 , 21 .

Common side effects

Skin irritation

Pimecrolimus topical cream can cause irritation at the site of application, such as redness, itching, and burning. 16 , 21 .

Infections

Because pimecrolimus topical cream is immunosuppressive, it may increase the risk of skin infections. It can also increase the risk of herpes simplex virus infections. 16 , 21 .

Skin cancer

There have been reports that pimecrolimus topical cream may increase the risk of skin cancer, but there is no clear evidence. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Lymphoma

There have been reports that pimecrolimus topical cream may increase the risk of lymphoma, but there is no clear evidence. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Side effects management

Skin irritation

If skin irritation is severe, discontinue use and consult a doctor. 16 , 21 .

Infections

If you experience signs of infection, discontinue use and consult a doctor. 16 , 21 .

Skin cancer

To reduce the risk of skin cancer, it is important to have regular skin examinations. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Lymphoma

To reduce the risk of lymphoma, it is important to have regular health checkups. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Comparison between studies

Commonalities between studies

Many studies have shown that pimecrolimus topical cream is effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. In addition, many studies have shown that pimecrolimus topical cream is safer than topical steroids and has fewer side effects. 1 , 19 , 13 , 22 , 17 , 12 , 27 , 29 , 24 , 7 , 9 , 10 , 23 , 2 , 20 , 18 , 15 .

Differences between studies

The results of studies on the side effects of pimecrolimus topical cream may vary. Some studies have reported an increased risk of skin cancer and lymphoma, while other studies have not found such a risk. There is still a lack of data on long-term use of pimecrolimus topical cream, so its safety is not fully understood yet. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Precautions for application in daily life

It is important to use pimecrolimus topical cream correctly as instructed by your doctor. Do not use it on your own or for long periods of time. If you experience any side effects such as skin irritation or infection, stop using the cream immediately and consult your doctor. 16 , 21 .

Limitations of current research

There are still not enough studies on the long-term safety of pimecrolimus topical cream. More research is needed on the risk of skin cancer and lymphoma. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Future research direction

More research is needed on the long-term safety of pimecrolimus topical cream and on the risk of skin cancer and lymphoma. Studies involving patients with different diseases and age groups are needed for a deeper understanding of the effectiveness and safety of pimecrolimus topical cream. 14 , 16 , 21 .

Conclusion

Pimecrolimus topical cream is an effective drug for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, but it has immunosuppressive effects, so side effects such as skin irritation and infection can occur. When using pimecrolimus topical cream, it is important to use it correctly as instructed by your doctor and to be aware of side effects. 16 , 21 .

Keywords
Benefit Keywords
Vitiligo treatment
1
Safer for sensitive skin
2
Good safety profile
Improved quality of life
Reduced pruritus
Steroid-sparing
3
AD treatment
4
Irritant dermatitis treatment
5
Pruritus resolution
6
Improved atopic dermatitis
7
advantageous in problem zones
proactive treatment
safe and efficacious
8
AD treatment
Skin barrier restoration
9
Effective SD treatment
Reduced recurrence
10
Improved quality of life
11
SD treatment
Safe treatment
12
Pruritus relief
Skin dryness relief
13
Effective eczema treatment
14
Atopic dermatitis treatment
Psoriasis treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis treatment
15
Atopic dermatitis treatment
16
Barrier repair
Reduced inflammation
17
Improved repigmentation
Safe
18
Facial SD treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis treatment
19
Vitiligo treatment
20
OLP treatment
Reduced inflammation
22
effective for rosacea
well-tolerated
23
Mild side effects
Reduced flares
24
Atopic dermatitis treatment
25
Vulvar pruritus treatment
26
Improved quality of life
Reduced pruritus
27
Dermatitis treatment
Steroid-sparing
29
Risk Keywords
Transient epidermal thinning
2
Corticophobia/steroid aversion
TCS side effects
3
Mild side effects
7
lymphomas
potential safety risks
skin cancers
8
Side effects
10
Burning sensation
11
Lymphoma
Skin cancer
Systemic immunosuppression
14
Herpes simplex virus infection
Malignancy
16
Immunosuppressant toxicity
Steroid side effects
17
Erythema
Pruritus
18
Side effects
20
Cutaneous infections
Skin irritation
21
Cream adherence issues
22
transient local irritations
23
Cosmetic safety
Immune system weakening
25
Steroid resistance
26
Skin atrophy
28
Topical glucocorticoids
29
Literature analysis of 29 papers
Positive Content
27
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
1
Article Type
8
0
0
7
29
1.

Efficacy and safety of pimecrolimus cream 1% in adult patients with vitiligo: results of a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study.

Author: DawidMarkus, VeensaluMarge, GrassbergerMaximilian, WolffKlaus

Vitiligo treatment

Pimecrolimus cream 1% has shown similar efficacy to clobetasol propionate 0.05% in treating vitiligo. This study will compare pimecrolimus cream 1% to placebo in a double-blind, intrapatient study.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

2.

Evaluation of the atrophogenic potential of hydrocortisone 1% cream and pimecrolimus 1% cream in uninvolved forehead skin of patients with atopic dermatitis using optical coherence tomography.

Author: AschoffRoland, SchmittJochen, KnuschkePeter, KochEdmund, BräutigamMatthias, MeurerMichael

Safer for sensitive skin
Transient epidermal thinning

Hydrocortisone 1% cream caused transient epidermal thinning after 2 weeks of treatment, while pimecrolimus 1% cream did not significantly affect epidermal thickness. This suggests that pimecrolimus may be safer for treating atopic dermatitis in sensitive areas.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Topical therapy of atopic dermatitis with a focus on pimecrolimus.

Author: LugerT, PallerA S, IrvineA D, SidburyR, EichenfieldL F, WerfelT, BieberT

Good safety profile
Improved quality of life
Reduced pruritus
Steroid-sparing
Corticophobia/steroid aversion
TCS side effects

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as pimecrolimus, are effective in treating atopic dermatitis (AD). They have similar anti-inflammatory effects to topical corticosteroids, reduce pruritus, and improve quality of life. Pimecrolimus is steroid-sparing and has a good safety profile, making it a preferred therapy for children and sensitive skin areas.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

4.

A randomized study of the safety, absorption and efficacy of pimecrolimus cream 1% applied twice or four times daily in patients with atopic dermatitis.

Author: LingMark, GottliebAlice, PariserDavid, CaroIvan, StewartDaniel, ScottGraham, AbramsKen

AD treatment

This study compared the safety, efficacy, and systemic absorption of pimecrolimus cream 1%, a non-steroid inhibitor of inflammatory cytokines, when administered twice daily (recommended dose) and four times daily for treating moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Treatment with pimecrolimus cream 1% clears irritant dermatitis of the periocular region, face and neck.

Author: MensingC O, MensingC H, MensingH

Irritant dermatitis treatment

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus cream 1% in treating irritant periocular dermatitis, extending to the face and neck in some patients.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

Topical pimecrolimus 1% for the treatment of pruritic external auditory canals.

Author: DjalilianHamid R, MemarOmid

Pruritus resolution

Topical pimecrolimus appears to be more efficacious than aural toilet in the treatment of pruritic ears.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

7.

The treatment of facial atopic dermatitis in children who are intolerant of, or dependent on, topical corticosteroids: a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Author: HoegerP H, LeeK-H, JautovaJ, WohlrabJ, GuettnerA, MizutaniG, HultschT

Improved atopic dermatitis
Mild side effects

Pimecrolimus cream 1% effectively controls eczema and pruritus in children with facial dermatitis intolerant of/dependent on topical corticosteroids and is well tolerated.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

Topical calcineurin inhibitors in the treatment of atopic dermatitis - an update on safety issues.

Author: Czarnecka-OperaczMagdalena, JenerowiczDorota

advantageous in problem zones
proactive treatment
safe and efficacious
lymphomas
potential safety risks
skin cancers

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, are effective treatments for atopic dermatitis, a common skin disorder. These medications are particularly useful for patients who cannot tolerate or have experienced side effects from topical corticosteroids.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

9.

Unmet medical needs in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in infants: An Expert consensus on safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus.

Author: LugerThomas, AugustinMatthias, LambertJulien, PaulCarle, PincelliCarlo, TorreloAntonio, VestergaardChristian, WahnUlrich, WerfelThomas

AD treatment
Skin barrier restoration

This study concluded that pimecrolimus offers a safe and effective alternative to TCS in infants aged 3 months and above, and labeling restrictions in this age group are no longer justified.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

10.

The Efficacy and Safety of Pimecrolimus in Patients With Facial Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Author: AlsmeiratOdeh, LakhaniSom, EgaimiMusab, IdrisOsama, ElkhalifaMohamed

Effective SD treatment
Reduced recurrence
Side effects

Pimecrolimus 1% topical cream is effective in treating facial seborrheic dermatitis (SD) and has lower recurrence rates, although it has more side effects than other topical treatments.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

11.

Corticosteroid therapy in the treatment of pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis.

Author: FröschlBarbara, ArtsDanielle, LeopoldChristine

Improved quality of life
Burning sensation

Topical calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, are effective and cost-effective alternatives to topical corticosteroids in treating atopic dermatitis in children.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

12.

Experience with repetitive use of pimecrolimus: exploring the effective and safe use in the treatment of relapsing seborrheic dermatitis.

Author: TatlicanSemih, ErenCemile, OktayBilgen, EskiogluFatma, DurmazlarPelin Kartal

SD treatment
Safe treatment

Retreatment of seborrheic dermatitis (SD) with pimecrolimus 1% cream was effective and safe, resulting in shorter cure times and longer remission times compared to the first treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

13.

Comparison of clinical efficacy of topical pimecrolimus with betamethasone in chronic skin lesions due to sulfur mustard exposure: a randomized, investigator-blind study.

Author: PanahiYunes, MoharamzadYashar, BeiraghdarFatemeh, NaghizadehMohammad Mehdi

Pruritus relief
Skin dryness relief

Topical pimecrolimus is as effective as betamethasone in relieving pruritus and skin dryness in patients exposed to sulfur mustard.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

14.

[Topical pimecrolimus and tacrolimus and the risk of cancer].

Author: Sánchez-PérezJ

Effective eczema treatment
Lymphoma
Skin cancer
Systemic immunosuppression

There is no scientific evidence suggesting an increased risk of skin cancer, lymphomas, or systemic immunosuppression associated with topical use of pimecrolimus or tacrolimus. However, the possibility of long-term cutaneous and/or systemic side effects cannot be ruled out.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Spanish

15.

Assigning new roles to topical tacrolimus.

Author: RallisEustathios, KorfitisChrysovalantis, GregoriouStamatis, RigopoulosDimitris

Atopic dermatitis treatment
Psoriasis treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis treatment

This review summarizes the off-label uses of topical tacrolimus in dermatology. Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment may be effective for seborrheic dermatitis, facial and intertriginous psoriasis, and allergic contact dermatitis, but further research is needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

18.

The efficacy of pimecrolimus 1% cream plus narrow-band ultraviolet B in the treatment of vitiligo: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Author: EsfandiarpourIraj, EkhlasiAli, FarajzadehSaeedeh, ShamsadiniSaadollah

Improved repigmentation
Safe
Erythema
Pruritus

A study of 50 patients with vitiligo found that combining narrow-band UVB (NB-UVB) with pimecrolimus cream resulted in greater repigmentation of facial lesions compared to NB-UVB alone.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Pimecrolimus 1% cream, methylprednisolone aceponate 0.1% cream and metronidazole 0.75% gel in the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis: a randomized clinical study.

Author: CicekDemet, KandiBasak, BakarSelma, TurgutDilara

Facial SD treatment
Seborrheic dermatitis treatment

Pimecrolimus cream 1% was more effective than methylprednisolone aceponate 0.1% cream and metronidazole 0.75% gel in treating facial seborrhoeic dermatitis. Metronidazole was associated with more side effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

20.

Two therapeutic challenges: periocular and genital vitiligo in children successfully treated with pimecrolimus cream.

Author: Souza LeiteRubens Marcelo, Craveiro LeiteAdriana Aragão

Vitiligo treatment
Side effects

Two children with vitiligo of the eyelids and genital vitiligo were treated with pimecrolimus 1% cream. The treatment resulted in almost full repigmentation of the lesions, suggesting that pimecrolimus may be a good treatment option for these specific areas in children.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

21.

[Safety information for tacrolimus: present and future].

Author: Sánchez-PérezJ

Cutaneous infections
Skin irritation

Topical tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant, can cause irritation at the application site, the most common side effect. Although there is no evidence of increased skin cancer, lymphomas, or systemic immunosuppression, long-term side effects are still possible.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Spanish

22.

[Pimecrolimus (Elidel) for therapy of lichen ruber mucosae].

Author: ScheerM, Kawari-MahmoodiN, NeugebauerJ, KüblerA C

OLP treatment
Reduced inflammation
Cream adherence issues

This study found that topical pimecrolimus ointment may be effective in treating oral lichen planus (OLP). The ointment reduced inflammation and discomfort in patients with OLP. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : German

23.

Pimecrolimus 1% cream for the treatment of rosacea.

Author: KimMoon-Bum, KimGun-Wook, ParkHyun-Je, KimHoon-Soo, ChinHyun-Woo, KimSu-Han, KimByung-Soo, KoHyun-Chang

effective for rosacea
well-tolerated
transient local irritations

1% pimecrolimus cream is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for mild to moderate inflammatory rosacea. In a 4-week study of 30 patients, 1% pimecrolimus cream significantly reduced rosacea clinical scores and erythema index.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

26.

Efficacy of topical pimecrolimus in the treatment of chronic vulvar pruritus: a prospective case series--a non-controlled, open-label study.

Author: SarifakiogluEvren, GumusIlknur Inegol

Vulvar pruritus treatment
Steroid resistance

Chronic vulvar pruritus is a distressing condition often treated with potent topical steroids. This study will explore alternative treatments due to the potential for side effects and steroid resistance.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

27.

Pimecrolimus 1% cream for pruritus in postmenopausal diabetic women with vulvar lichen simplex chronicus: a prospective non-controlled case series.

Author: KelekciHandan Kiymet, UncuHikmet Gulsen, YilmazBulent, OzdemirOrcun, SutNecdet, KelekciSefa

Improved quality of life
Reduced pruritus

Topical pimecrolimus 1% cream was effective and safe in treating pruritus vulvae in postmenopausal women with vulvar lichen simplex chronicus.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

28.

Lichen striatus in adults and pimecrolimus: open, off-label clinical study.

Author: CampanatiAnna, BrandozziGiuliano, GiangiacomiMirella, SimonettiOriana, MarconiBarbara, OffidaniAnna Maria

Skin atrophy

Lichen striatus, a self-healing linear dermatosis, is more extensive and itchy in adults than in children. Topical steroids are commonly used for treatment, but prolonged use can lead to side effects such as cutaneous atrophy.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

29.

A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled pilot study comparing topical immunomodulating agents and corticosteroids for treatment of experimentally induced nickel contact dermatitis.

Author: BhardwajSachin S, JaimesJuan P, LiuAn, WarshawErin M

Dermatitis treatment
Steroid-sparing
Topical glucocorticoids

Topical glucocorticoids are effective for most inflammatory skin disorders but have limitations due to local and systemic side effects. Tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, immunomodulators, provide steroid-sparing options for long-term topical treatment of allergic contact dermatitis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.