Elidel

What is it?

Composition

Elidel contains the active substance pimecrolimus, which is responsible for its main action. This component is a calcineurin inhibitor and has an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effect, reducing the activity of T-lymphocytes and the release of cytokines, which play a key role in the development of inflammation.

In addition to pimecrolimus, the cream also contains other auxiliary components that provide the desired texture and stability of the drug, and also promote better absorption of the product into the skin. The main ones are:

• Mono- and diacylglycerides of caprylic and capric acids
• Ethanol
• Propylene glycol
• Sodium hydroxide
• Purified water

How to use?

Elidel should be used strictly as prescribed by a doctor, especially if it is a long-term use. The cream is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin, avoiding contact with the eyes, mucous membranes and open wounds. Treatment can be started immediately after the first signs of exacerbation of dermatitis appear.

Directions for use:

1. Before applying the cream, thoroughly wash and dry your hands and skin in the areas where the drug will be used.
2. Apply Elidel twice a day, morning and evening, with gentle circular movements until the cream is completely absorbed.
3. Continue treatment until symptoms disappear completely, but not longer than prescribed by the doctor. If there is no improvement after 6 weeks of use, you should consult a specialist.

How does it work?

Elidel works by blocking the activity of calcineurin, an enzyme involved in the activation of T-lymphocytes, cells of the immune system. T-lymphocytes play an important role in the bodys inflammatory response, which leads to the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, such as redness, itching and swelling.

When the cream is applied to the skin, pimecrolimus penetrates the superficial layers of the epidermis and begins to suppress the excessive activity of immune cells at the local level. This leads to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory molecules (cytokines), which in turn reduces inflammation and the symptoms associated with it.

Due to its specific mechanism of action, Elidel is effective in long-term control of eczema without causing skin atrophy, which is an advantage over some steroid ointments.

Indications

Elidel is indicated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (eczema) in patients when other treatments, such as corticosteroids, are not suitable or do not provide the required effect. The drug is indicated for both short-term treatment of exacerbations and long-term maintenance treatment to prevent relapses of the disease.

The main indications for the use of Elidel:

• Treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in adults and children from 2 years of age.
• Maintenance therapy to control the chronic course of dermatitis and prevent exacerbations.
• An alternative for patients in whom the use of corticosteroids causes undesirable side effects or is contraindicated.

Contraindications

Despite its effectiveness, Elidel is not recommended for use in a number of cases. The drug has limitations related to the patients health condition and the characteristics of the disease. It is important to strictly follow the doctors recommendations and take into account possible contraindications to avoid undesirable consequences.

The main contraindications for the use of Elidel:

• Hypersensitivity to pimecrolimus or any of the auxiliary components of the cream.
• The presence of acute bacterial, viral or fungal infections of the skin, since Elidel can aggravate the course of the infectious process.
• Patients with immune system disorders, such as immunodeficiency states.
• Age under 2 years, since the safety and effectiveness of use in infants have not been established.

Side effects

Although Elidel is considered safe for long-term use, it, like any other medication, can cause side effects. Most of these go away on their own and do not require discontinuing the drug, but it is important to be aware of possible reactions to treatment.

The most common side effects include:

• Burning or itching where the cream is applied, especially in the first days of use.
• Redness or rash on the skin, which may be a reaction to the drug itself or to its components.
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, which requires additional protection from ultraviolet rays.
• Less commonly, local infections such as folliculitis may occur, since suppression of immune activity in the skin can promote bacterial growth.