Ethanol-induced flushing with topical pimecrolimus use.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) are used for inflammatory skin conditions.
• Ethanol ingestion has been anecdotally linked to flushing with TCI use.

Observation:

• This report details three cases of patients experiencing facial flushing after consuming alcohol while using topical pimecrolimus cream.
• Previous literature primarily associated this reaction with tacrolimus ointment.

Findings:

• Topical pimecrolimus use is associated with a flushing reaction upon ethanol ingestion.
• This adverse effect appears to be a class effect of topical calcineurin inhibitors.

Implications:

• Clinicians should counsel patients using topical pimecrolimus about potential ethanol-induced flushing.
• Awareness of this adverse effect is crucial for patient safety and management.