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PROTOPIC - ORDER ONLINE
Protopic is an immunosuppressant used which is applied topically to treat itching and swelling associated with a certain skin condition known as atopic dermatitis.
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PROTOPIC INFORMATION
Taking Protopic
Before applying protopic wash your hands. Apply a thin layer of protopic to the affected area of skin twice a day or as instructed by your doctor. Rub the protopic into the skin gently and completely. Protopic is a topical medication for use on the skin only.
When applying protopic after a shower or bath, dry your skin completely. Do not bathe, shower or swim immediately after applying protopic as this could wash it off.
It is very important to continue using protopic for at least 7 days after your condition starts to improve.
Do not cover the area treated with protopic with plastic or waterproof bandages unless instructed to by your doctor.
Only the weakest strength protopic should be used in children 2 to 15 years old. Use of protopic in children less than 2 years of age is not recommended.
Side effects
Side effects that may occur while using protopic include skin burning, itching, or redness. If any of these side effects persist or get worse, tell your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur while using protopic: acne, headache, unusual fatigue, nasal congestion.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur while using protopic: upset stomach, appearance of any skin infections or sores (e.g., chicken pox, shingles, lip sores, tumors, or warts).
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur while using protopic: muscle pain, swollen glands (especially in the neck, under the arms, or in the groin area).
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to protopic, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to protopic include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
Before using protopic tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you are using, especially : other skin products, cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), St John's wort, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), protease inhibitors (e.g., indinavir, ritonavir), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil). Do not start or stop any medication without doctors approval.
Precautions
Before using protopic, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: any skin infections, viral infections (e.g., herpes, mononucleosis), cancer, allergies (especially drug allergies).
Protopic can make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, use a sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when going outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds. Protopic should be used only when clearly needed if you are pregnant. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Protopic passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Talk to your doctor before breast-feeding.
Overdose
If an overdose of protopic is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of protopic, use the missed dos as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed protopic dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Protopic Storage
Protopic should be stored at room temperature between 77 degrees F (25 degrees C), with brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) permitted away from light and moisture.
Keep protopic out of the reach of children.
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