Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Tacrolimus Ointment requires a valid prescription.
Tacrolimus Ointment
Generic Name: TACROLIMUS EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULES
Tacrolimus is the active ingredient in tacrolimus extended-release capsules.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Tacrolimus Ointment Used For?
- Skin conditions
- Dermatological disorders
How Does It Work?
A complex of tacrolimus-FKBP-12, calcium, calmodulin, and calcineurin (a ubiquitous mammalian intracellular enzyme) is then formed and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin is inhibited.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- The risk appears to be related to the intensity and duration of immunosuppression rather than to the use of any specific agent.
- Examine patients for skin changes and advise to avoid or limit exposure to sunlight and UV light by wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor.
- The risk of PTLD appears greatest in patients who are EBV seronegative, a population which includes many young children.
- Monitor EBV serology during treatment. 5.2 Serious Infections Immunosuppressants, including tacrolimus extended-release capsules, increase the risk of developing bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections.
- Serious viral infections reported include: Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (especially due to BK virus infection) JC virus-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections: CMV seronegative transplant patients who receive an organ from a CMV seropositive donor are at highest risk of CMV viremia and CMV disease.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Tacrolimus extended-release capsules is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to tacrolimus [see Adverse Reactions ] .
- Known hypersensitivity to tacrolimus. ( 4 )
Drug Interactions
Tacrolimus Ointment may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a dermatologist on Zospital
Consult a dermatologist on Zospital before starting Tacrolimus Ointment. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Skin & Dermatology Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Tacrolimus Ointment – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Tacrolimus Ointment, its uses, dosage and safety.
Tacrolimus Ointment is commonly prescribed in India for: Skin conditions, Dermatological disorders. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Tacrolimus Ointment is sold in India under brand names such as Protopic, tacrolimus. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Tacrolimus Ointment is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Tacrolimus Ointment can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Insomnia. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Fatal, Hepatotoxicity, Nephrotoxicity, Agranulocytosis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
A complex of tacrolimus-FKBP-12, calcium, calmodulin, and calcineurin (a ubiquitous mammalian intracellular enzyme) is then formed and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin is inhibited.
Tacrolimus Ointment can interact with: Information, Clinical, Interaction, Alcohol, Administration, Moderate. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Tacrolimus Ointment.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Tacrolimus Ointment for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Tacrolimus Ointment depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Tacrolimus Ointment during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Tacrolimus Ointment's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.