Protopic Ointment treats the symptoms of eczema. It is in a class of medications called topical calcineurin inhibitors and works by stopping the immune system from producing substances that may cause eczema.

Use Protopic Ointment exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

• Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine unless you are treating eczema on your hands. 
• Apply a thin layer of Protopic ointment to clean dry skin and rub it gently. Use the smallest amount needed to control the symptoms of eczema.
• Use this medicine only on skin that is affected by eczema.
• After applying Protopic ointment, you may need a moisturizing cream or lotion to keep your skin from getting too dry. Ask your doctor about which cream or lotion to use.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after six weeks.
• You may get viral infections more easily, such as chickenpox or herpes (cold sores or shingles).

Before using Protopic Ointment, tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to tacrolimus ointment, injection, capsules, or other medications,
• If you have a skin infection or have had kidney disease, Netherton's syndrome, redness and peeling off most of your skin, any other skin disease, or any skin infection, especially chicken pox, shingles, herpes, or eczema herpeticum. Also, tell your doctor if your eczema rash has turned crusty or blistered or if you think your eczema rash is infected.
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using tacrolimus ointment.
• Alcoholic beverages while you are using Protopic ointment. Your skin or face may become flushed or red and feel hot if you drink alcohol during your treatment.
• You should know that good skin care and moisturizers may help relieve dry skin caused by eczema. Talk to your doctor about the moisturizers you should use, and apply them after applying ointment.

The most common side effects of Protopic Ointment include:

• mild burning, stinging or itching,
• skin redness,
• acne,
• cold or flu symptoms,
• headache, and
• feeling more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures

Tell your doctor immediately if you have any serious side effects, including:

• unusual tiredness, 
• back/joint/muscle pain, 
• the appearance of skin infections or sores,
• chest pain.

These are not all the possible side effects of Protopic. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. These are not all the possible side effects of Protopic. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What happens if you miss a dose of Protopic Ointment?

Apply the Protopic Ointment as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if you overdose on Protopic Ointment?

If someone overdoses and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing. Seek emergency medical attention.

Is it safe to have alcohol while on Protopic Ointment?

Drinking alcohol while using this medicine can cause warmth, flushing, or redness in your skin or face.