1.2. Pediatrics
A Black Box Warning states that the long-term safety of topical calcineurin inhibitors has not been established, and continuous long-term use is not recommended. While a causal relationship for the incidence of malignancy has not been established, topical calcineurin inhibitor use should be avoided in children younger than 2 years of age as the effect on the developing immune system is not known1-6.
Recommended pediatric dosages for topical calcineurin inhibitors are summarized in Table 21-4.
Table 2: Recommended Pediatric Dosages for Topical Calcineurin Inhibitors
Drug Name/Strength | Recommended Dose/Directions |
---|---|
pimecrolimus 1% cream | Children greater than 2 years of age: apply thin layer of cream to affected area twice daily until symptoms resolve; use should be confined only to areas affected by atopic dermatitis; should not be used with occlusive dressings |
tacrolimus 0.03% ointment tacrolimus 0.03% or 0.1% ointment |
|