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Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors (Immuno-Modulators)
A new topical therapy for atopic dermatitis is use of calcineurin inhibitors. These are believed to selectively suppress the immune response that creates the flare-ups. These are used as topicals and are not to be used for children below two years or in pregnant or breast-feeding women. The US FDA has approved two drugs for this use- pimecrolimus and tacrolimus.
These calcineurin inhibitors don't have side-effects such as thinning skin, loss of effectiveness or adrenal suppression as steroids do. Therefore they can be used for a longer period and also be used on places where the skin is thin. These drugs successfully reduce inflammation. There are few temporary side-effects of these drugs like burning, itching or feeling of warmth.
Care With Calcineurin Inhibitors:
You are recommended to apply them twice a day and protect yourself completely from the sun. If you have weak immune system, your doctor may not prescribe these topical ointments.
Article created on: June 24, 2006
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Treatment Of Atopic Dermatitis
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