Protopic
Tacrolimus ointment for atopic dermatitis. It calms the skin and helps clear redness and itching.
- Category
- Skin Care
- Active ingredient
- Tacrolimus
- Route
- Cutaneous use
- Form
- Ointment
- Strengths
- 0.03% 10gm
Protopic is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.
No prescription needed: we place your order for Protopic on your behalf.
- Condition
- Atopic Dermatitis
- Alternative names
- tacrolimus
- Therapeutic class
- Calcineurin Inhibitor
- Pharmacological class
- Topical Immunosuppressant
- Known off-label uses
- vitiligo
- Contraindications
- uncontrolled cutaneous viral or fungal infections
- Minor side effects
- local burning; skin redness; pruritus
- Moderate side effects
- local tingling; skin dry; folliculitis
- Serious side effects
- cutaneous malignancy risk increase, requires immediate medical attention
- Dosage forms
- Ointment
- Administration route
- Cutaneous use
- Originator
- Astellas Pharma
- Onset time
- 1–2 weeks
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C. Do not freeze.
- Age restrictions
- Approved for children over two years and adults based on formulation strength.
Patient summary
Tacrolimus ointment for atopic dermatitis. It calms the skin and helps clear redness and itching.
Mechanism of action
Suppresses cytokine transcription in local T-lymphocytes, resolving localised cutaneous swelling and inflammation.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use if potential benefits justify risks. Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor.
FAQ
Is the Protopic sold here the original brand?
No. Protopic is the original brand, made by Astellas Pharma, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient (tacrolimus) at the same strength. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.
How much does Protopic cost in South Africa?
It depends on the pack size. Protopic comes in a 0.03% 10gm strength, in packs of 1 to 5 tubes, and the price of every option is shown above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted. Larger packs cost less per tube.
Payment and prices →Is Protopic sold under other names?
On Direct Meds the same ingredient is also sold as Prograf.
What is Protopic used for?
Protopic contains tacrolimus, used for atopic dermatitis.
How long does Protopic take to work?
Tacrolimus usually starts to work within 1 to 2 weeks. How quickly it works can differ from one person to another.
What side effects can Protopic cause?
The common side effects of tacrolimus are local burning, skin redness and itching (pruritus). Less common ones include local tingling, skin dry and folliculitis. Serious but less common side effects include cutaneous malignancy risk increase, which needs urgent medical attention.
Can I buy Protopic over the counter in South Africa?
Online, yes: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Protopic. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Where can I buy Protopic in South Africa?
On Direct Meds: choose the strength and pack, then check out. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →What you will receive
Protopic names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.
- A generic containing Tacrolimus at the strength you pick.
- Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
- Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.