Protopic
Designed to alleviate atopic dermatitis symptoms, formulated to target skin inflammation and to support to manage flare-ups.
- Categories
- Skin Care · Autoimmune Support
- Active ingredient
- Tacrolimus
- Supply
- Rx
- Route
- Cutaneous use
- Form
- Ointment
- Strengths
- 0.03 · 0.1%
Protopic details
- Condition
- Atopic Dermatitis
- Alternative names
- Prograf; Adoport
- Therapeutic class
- Calcineurin inhibitor
- Pharmacological class
- Immunosuppressant
- Contraindications
- hypersensitivity to tacrolimus; netherton syndrome
- Minor side effects
- application site burning; pruritus; erythema
- Moderate side effects
- folliculitis; skin infections; acne
- Serious side effects
- malignancy, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Ointment
- Administration route
- Cutaneous use
- Supply category
- Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
- Manufacturer
- Leo Laboratories
- Onset Time
- 1 week
- Duration
- As directed by physician
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C.
- Age restrictions
- Not for children under 2 years.
Precautions and warnings
avoid alcohol consumption during treatment; minimize exposure to natural or artificial sunlight
Patient summary
Designed to alleviate atopic dermatitis symptoms, formulated to target skin inflammation and to support to manage flare-ups.
Mechanism of action
Tacrolimus inhibits calcineurin, a phosphatase involved in T-lymphocyte activation. By preventing calcineurin activity, it suppresses the transcription of proinflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and skin lesions.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Monitor closely; use only if benefit justifies risk. Breastfeeding: Use with caution; consult clinical guidance.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Protopic
Protopic is a well-known treatment for atopic dermatitis, containing the active ingredient tacrolimus. This active ingredient is also sold under other names such as Prograf and Adoport. Produced by Leo Laboratories, this medication is provided in a tube with available strengths of 0.03% and 0.1%.
Protopic availability in Asia
Protopic is registered across 14 markets, including Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand, with availability also in Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. As with many medications, generic tacrolimus is often more affordable than the original brand, providing consistent access for expats and those living without easy access to a pharmacy. As this is a specialised topical treatment for sensitive skin conditions, it is best used under the guidance of a medical doctor.