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Tacrolimus

Tacrolimus suppresses selected immune responses. Oral forms are used in transplant care, while topical forms may be used for dermatitis; these routes are not interchangeable.

Protopic

Atopic Dermatitis

0.03 · 0.1%

Tacrolimus 0.03% and 0.1% ointment, applied to the skin for atopic dermatitis. A calcineurin inhibitor rather than a topical steroid.

From$15.13/ tubeView

Prograf

Transplant Rejection

0.5 · 1 · 5mg

Tacrolimus 0.5mg, 1mg and 5mg hard capsules, used in the management of transplant rejection. A calcineurin inhibitor that holds T-cells back.

From$3.75/ tabletView

Key points

  • Oral tacrolimus has systemic immunosuppressive effects and usually requires blood-level, kidney, blood-pressure, glucose and electrolyte monitoring.
  • Tacrolimus ointment acts mainly at the application site and has different instructions and adverse effects from oral treatment.
  • Interactions can substantially change oral tacrolimus levels, increasing rejection risk or toxicity.

Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on route, indication, specialist or clinician review, prescription and pharmacy checks.

What tacrolimus is used for

Oral tacrolimus may be used to prevent transplant rejection. Topical tacrolimus may be used for selected atopic dermatitis when a clinician considers it appropriate.

How it works

Tacrolimus inhibits calcineurin, reducing T-cell activation. The degree of whole-body immune suppression differs greatly between oral and topical use.

Clinically meaningful forms

Capsules and other systemic forms belong to a transplant regimen and require specialist continuity. Ointment is applied to the skin and must not be substituted for an oral product.

Important safety checks

For oral treatment, review infections, vaccines, kidney and liver function, blood pressure, glucose, electrolytes and all interacting medicines or foods. For topical treatment, avoid infected skin and follow advice about sun exposure and treatment areas.

When to seek urgent care

Seek urgent help for fever with severe illness, confusion, seizure, fainting, chest pain, very little urine, severe weakness, facial swelling or breathing difficulty. Transplant patients should contact their team promptly after missed doses, vomiting or any medicine change.

Further reading

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