Drug
Tacrolimus
Pronounced
"tack-row-LEE-muss"
Side Effects
Stinging, burning, soreness, or itching in the area of treated skin may occur during the first few days of treatment. Headache, acne, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), stomach upset, flu-like symptoms (such as fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, muscle aches), or increased sensitivity of the skin to hot/cold/pain/touch may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: unusual tiredness, back/joint/muscle pain, appearance of any skin infections or sores (such as chicken pox, shingles, lip sores, tumors, warts), chest pain.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using tacrolimus, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other macrolide medications (such as sirolimus); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: swollen lymph nodes (for example, due to lymphadenopathy, mononucleosis), use of light therapy (such as UVA or UVB), skin or other cancers, skin infections (such as herpes, shingles), other skin conditions, kidney disease.
This drug may make you more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Your face or skin may flush red and feel hot. Limit alcoholic beverages.
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.