Tacrolimus Ointment

What is in this leaflet

This leaflet answers some common questions about Tacrolimus Ointment.
It does not contain all of the available information. It is not intended to replace the advice of your pharmacist or doctor.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine; you may need to read it again.

What tacrolimus is used for

Tacrolimus ointment is used to treat moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) when other treatments have not worked or are not suitable.
It helps to reduce inflammation and itching by suppressing the immune response in the skin.

Your doctor may prescribe tacrolimus ointment for another reason—if so, follow their advice.

Before you take tacrolimus

When you must not use it

• Do not use tacrolimus ointment if you are allergic to tacrolimus or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
• Do not use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding unless your doctor recommends it.
• Tacrolimus ointment is not recommended for children under 2 years unless specifically prescribed.

Before you start to use it

Tell your pharmacist if you:

• have liver disease
• have a weakened immune system
• have any skin infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
• are planning pregnancy

Using other medicines

Tell your pharmacist if you are using any other medicines, especially:

• corticosteroid creams or ointments
• other immunosuppressive medicines
• medicines that increase sensitivity to sunlight (e.g. some antibiotics, diuretics) These medicines may interact with tacrolimus ointment.

How to take tacrolimus

How much to use

Follow the label or the instructions provided by your pharmacist.
Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected skin areas twice daily, or as directed by your doctor.

How to use it

• Wash and dry your hands before applying the ointment.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and gently rub in.
• Wash your hands after applying, unless treating your hands.
• Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless advised by your doctor.

When to use it

Apply tacrolimus ointment at the same times each day, as prescribed.

How long to use it

Continue using tacrolimus ointment for as long as your doctor or pharmacist tells you.
Do not stop using it suddenly unless advised by your doctor.

If you forget a dose

If you forget to use tacrolimus ointment, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume as normal. Do not apply a double dose.

If you use too much (overdose)

Tacrolimus ointment is for external use only. If you or anyone else swallows it, immediately telephone your doctor, the Poisons Information Centre (☎ 13 11 26 in Australia), or go to Accident & Emergency.

While you are taking tacrolimus

Things you must do

• Use tacrolimus ointment exactly as prescribed.
• Tell any healthcare professional you start tacrolimus treatment.

Things you must not do

• Do not use more than the prescribed amount.
• Do not use on open wounds, infected skin, or mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, genitals).

Things to be careful of

• Avoid exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds while using tacrolimus ointment. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen if outdoors.
• Do not use with occlusive dressings unless advised by your doctor.

Possible side effects

Common (≥1 %)	Less common / rare (<1 %)
Burning or stinging at application site	Skin infection
Itching, redness	Acne
Flu-like symptoms	Swollen glands
Headache	Hypersensitivity reactions
Cough, cold symptoms	Photosensitivity (sunburn)

Most side effects are mild and short-lived.
Stop using tacrolimus ointment and seek medical advice if you experience severe or worrying symptoms.

Storage and disposal

• Store below 25 °C in a dry place, protected from light.
• Keep the tube tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Return any unused medicine to your pharmacist for safe disposal.

Product description

What it looks like

• Ointment: white to off-white ointment supplied in a plastic container with a calibrated actuator that delivers 0.5g per full pump.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Tacrolimus 0.03% or 0.1%.
• Inactive ingredients: White soft paraffin & Liquid paraffin

Sponsor / Further information

Prepared by Gardens Compounding Pharmacy
Suite 1.5, 470 Wodonga Pl,
Albury NSW 2640
Phone (02) 6023 3666 compounding@awardpharmacies.com

This leaflet was updated on 24 July 2025.
This CMI is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.