Tacroz Ointment

Composition of Tacroz Ointment

Tacroz Ointment contains Tacrolimus (0.03% w/w). It belongs to the Topical calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant) class of medicines.

Uses of Tacroz Ointment

• Treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• especially moderate to severe eczema when topical corticosteroids are not suitable or as steroid-sparing therapy; helps relieve itching and inflammation during flares.

Key benefits

• Reduces itching and redness in eczema
• Controls inflammation during flares
• Steroid-sparing option for sensitive areas (face/skin folds) as advised
• Helps improve skin lesions and comfort

How Tacroz Ointment works

Tacrolimus is a topical calcineurin inhibitor that suppresses activation of T-lymphocytes and reduces release of inflammatory cytokines in the skin. This decreases inflammation, redness and itching associated with eczema without causing steroid-related skin thinning.

How to take Tacroz Ointment

For external use only. Apply a thin layer to affected skin as prescribed (commonly twice daily during flares) and rub in gently. Can be used with or without food; avoid applying on infected skin and avoid occlusive dressings unless advised. Wash hands after use; avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes; moisturizers may be used but typically applied after tacrolimus as advised.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

If you miss a dose of Tacroz Ointment, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can suppress the body's own steroid production when it is used for a long time over large areas, especially in children. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Tacroz Ointment

Most side effects of Tacroz are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Burning or stinging at application site
• itching
• redness
• warmth
• skin irritation
• folliculitis
• acne
• headache
• increased sensitivity to sun
• skin infection (worsening)

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Tacroz Ointment

Warnings and precautions

Use under medical supervision. Do not use in children below the age advised for the strength (0.03% is generally used in children ≥2 years and adults; follow doctor advice). Avoid use on active viral/bacterial/fungal skin infections (e.g., herpes, chickenpox) until treated. Minimize or avoid excessive sunlight/UV exposure and tanning beds; use protective clothing/sunscreen as advised. Not for use in immunocompromised patients unless doctor directs. Do not apply on malignant or pre-malignant skin lesions. If severe irritation, swelling, or signs of infection occur, stop and consult doctor.

Do not take Tacroz if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Not for untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections. Not for use in or around the eyes.

Interactions with other medicines

Additive immunosuppression with other immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, systemic tacrolimus, azathioprine, methotrexate); increased local irritation with alcohol-containing topical products; avoid concurrent phototherapy/UV treatment where possible. Clinically significant systemic drug interactions are unlikely with topical use but caution on large areas/under occlusion.

How to store Tacroz Ointment

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze. Keep cap tightly closed and protect from heat and excessive light. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Tacroz Ointment

Tacroz Ointment is effective at treating eczema (atopic dermatitis) when other treatment options have failed. Apply thinly to affected areas of skin only. Clean the affected area and dry well before applying Tacroz Ointment. Avoid contact with water after application. Inform your doctor if there's no improvement even after two weeks of treatment, or if the skin gets worse. Don't cover the area being treated with airtight dressings such as bandages unless directed by a doctor, as this may increase the risk of side effects. Stop using Tacroz Ointment and consult your doctor if your eczema becomes infected. Continuous long-term use of the ointment should be avoided. Use as prescribed by your doctor.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS

Therapeutic class:

Dermatological (Anti-eczema/Immunomodulator)

Drug class:

Topical calcineurin inhibitor (immunosuppressant)

Chemical class:

Macrolide lactams