Combining Protopic with Regular Skincare Products
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Fri Nov 08, 2013 8:00 pm

Does anyone here regularly use Protopic? (This medication helps with eczema)

Some background. I apparently (dermatologist never made a definitive diagnosis) have adult-onset eczema. She told me this is unusual, as I should have had some childhood episodes. It only strikes in the winter, or if I'm on a spicy-food kick.

Protopic actually works wonderfully, but I'm not sure how to fit it into my normal routine. I'm afraid to combine it with Vit C or Retin A, much less copper peptides, so end up just using a moisturizer whenever I have a flare-up.

Any ideas? Anyone with experience? I'd really like to continue using my current products, but am at a loss at how to mix these together.

Sun Nov 10, 2013 12:43 pm

Here is a link to the Protopic Drug Safety Sheet that might help: http://www.fda.gov/downloads/drugs/drugsafety/ucm088996.pdf It does say you can use moisturizers after applying the ointment but to limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing over treated areas when exposure cannot be avoided and avoid UV light treatments as Protopic may make you more sensitive to the sun. Another link says, "Stay out of the sunlight as much as possible during your treatment, even when the medication is not on your skin."

I'm not sure I would use anything potentially irritating while using the ointment as some of the possible side effects include hair bumps, increased sensitivity of the skin to hot/cold/pain/touch, stinging, itching or burning in the area of treatment etc. but your doctor would know best.

There was also this possible side effect included that says:

People using this medicine have experienced symptoms such as facial flushing or skin irritation shortly after drinking alcohol. It is recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol while using this medicine.

Unrelated to skin care, it also mentioned that if you get are getting a vaccine or are nursing:

Tacrolimus may lessen your response to a vaccine making the vaccine less effective. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations while you are using this product without the consent of your doctor.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.This drug may pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Therefore, breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug

And under special dietary instructions, "Talk to your doctor about eating grapefruit and drinking grapefruit juice while you are taking this medicine."

Not sure how much help that is, lagay, but hopefully someone who has had experience with the ointment will pop in with their suggestions.

Wed Nov 13, 2013 8:29 am

Thanks for the medication info--I actually wasn't aware that I should increase my protection from the sun. I'm pretty good with the sunscreen though, so I'm not worried about that.

I was worried about combining Protopic with Vitamin C and Retin A, but I keep it away from the treated area. I hope that is enough!!

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