Stop using tacrolimus and call your doctor if you have:

• worsened skin symptoms;

• signs of a skin infection (redness, swelling, itching, oozing);

• swollen glands; or

• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms.

Less serious side effects are more likely to occur. Continue using tacrolimus and talk with your doctor if you have any of these side effects:

• burning, stinging, tingling, or soreness of treated skin (especially during the first few days of treatment);

• swollen hair follicles;

• acne;

• upset stomach;

• muscle pain;

• headache; or

• feeling more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect tacrolimus topical?

Before using tacrolimus topical, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• cimetidine (Tagamet).

• erythromycin (Ery-Tab, E-Mycin, E.E.S. and others);

• an antifungal medicine such as ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), or fluconazole (Diflucan); or

• a heart medicine such as verapamil (Calan, Verelan), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor XR, Tiazac), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), or nicardipine (Cardene).

There may be other drugs or skin products that can affect tacrolimus. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about tacrolimus topical written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Tacrolimus topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Protopic. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Protopic 0.03 % ointment

• Protopic 0.1% ointment

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.