title: [Drug of month. Topical tacrolimus (Protopic)].
abstract: Tacrolimus is a potent inhibitor of immune mechanisms. It belongs to the macrolactam group. It inhibits the release of both Th1 and Th2 cytokines. It proves to be efficacious after topical application in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. In this indication, tacrolimus challenges topical corticosteroids. Irritation risks are present. The local immuno-depression can boost disseminated infections including herpes. The risk to promote photocarcinogenesis on the long term, and that bound to chronic resorption remain theoretical concerns that have not been assessed so far.
authors.affiliation: Service de Dermatopathologie, Université de Liège.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Piérard
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Piérard-Franchimont
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Paquet
mesh_terms: D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology / Q000473:pathology; D004361:Drug Tolerance; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000276:immunology / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors; D012869:Skin Absorption / Q000187:drug effects; D016559:Tacrolimus / Q000276:immunology / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018417:Th1 Cells / Q000187:drug effects; D018418:Th2 Cells / Q000187:drug effects; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D016559:Tacrolimus