Topical [symbol: see text] tacrolimus--a role in atopic dermatitis?

Conventional treatment of atopic dermatitis includes the regular, frequent use of emollients, and intermittent application of topical corticosteroids to control acute 'flares'. [symbol: see text] Tacrolimus (pronounced ta-kro-li-mus), which is available for systemic use for the prevention of organ rejection following allogenic liver and kidney transplantation, is now formulated as an immunosuppressant ointment (Protopic-Fujisawa). This is licensed for use in adults and children aged 2 years and over with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis inadequately responsive to conventional therapy. Promotion states that, in these groups, tacrolimus is "at least as effective as topical steroids" and "without the potential side effects of conventional therapy". Here we consider the place of tacrolimus ointment in the management of atopic dermatitis.