Tacrolimus ointment: the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory cutaneous disease

Topical tacrolimus (FK506, Protopic™) has been developed and marketed for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD). Tacrolimus works as an inhibitor of calcineurin, which creates a downregulation of the inflammatory cascade. Numerous trials have shown the efficacy and safety of tacrolimus in treating AD in both adults and children. Additionally, comparison data with other medications commonly used for AD, such as topical steroids and pimecrolimus, show improved efficacy of tacrolimus. A comprehensive review of the off-label uses of tacrolimus in other dermatoses, including psoriasis, lichen planus and seborrhoeic dermatitis, is provided. The efficacy of tacrolimus in treating these diseases is based on Phase IV clinical trials and on case reports or series in the literature. Overall, tacrolimus has proven to be a safe and useful topical therapy for many inflammatory dermatological conditions, with AD being the principal indication.