Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 25, 2026

Effects of Exposure of Formaldehyde to a Rat Model of Atopic Dermatitis Induced by Neonatal Capsaicin Treatment
Published on: September 27, 2017
Pimecrolimus for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in Infants: An Asian Perspective
Chia-Yu Chu1, Tsung-Chieh Yao2, I-Hsin Shih3
1Department of Dermatology, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
Insights
Pimecrolimus is recommended for infants aged 3 months to 2 years with atopic dermatitis in Asia. This topical calcineurin inhibitor offers a safe alternative to topical corticosteroids for managing this common pediatric skin condition.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin condition in children, with rising incidence in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Genetic, environmental, and cultural factors influence AD presentation and prevalence across different populations.
- Early intervention is crucial to prevent the atopic march, a progression to conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus for treating atopic dermatitis in pediatric patients.
- To address concerns regarding pimecrolimus use in infants within Asian countries.
- To provide expert recommendations on pimecrolimus application in young children.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trial data on pimecrolimus efficacy and safety.
- Comparison of pimecrolimus with topical corticosteroids (TCS) and tacrolimus.
- Expert panel assessment of evidence for pimecrolimus use in infants.
Main Results:
- Pimecrolimus (1%) is a topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI) effective for mild to moderate AD.
- Pimecrolimus demonstrates a comparable safety profile to TCS with fewer adverse events and less burning sensation than tacrolimus.
- Despite established efficacy, regulatory restrictions on pimecrolimus in infants persist in many Asian nations.
Conclusions:
- Expert panel recommends pimecrolimus for infants aged 3 months to 2 years in the Asian population.
- Pimecrolimus is a viable and safe alternative to long-term topical corticosteroid use.
- Evidence supports the use of pimecrolimus to manage pediatric atopic dermatitis, mitigating risks associated with other treatments.
Abstract:
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic, multisystem inflammatory skin disease in pediatric patients. There has been an increase in the incidence of AD in the pediatric population of the Asia-Pacific region. Studies have shown that genetic, epigenetic, environmental and cultural factors may lead to differences in the clinical manifestation and prevalence of AD between races. Early treatment of AD is necessary to prevent the atopic march leading to comorbidities such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are used as first-line therapy for the treatment of AD, but their long-term usage poses a risk to the patient's health. Pimecrolimus (1%) is a topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI) that is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate AD. Pimecrolimus has no apparent increase in adverse events compared to TCS, and it causes less of a burning sensation than tacrolimus. The safety and efficacy of pimecrolimus has been established through various clinical trials; yet, in many Asian countries, the use of pimecrolimus in infants is still restricted due to safety concerns. Based on the available evidence, the expert panel recommends pimecrolimus in infants between 3 months and 2 years of age in the Asian population.
Related Concept Videos
Clinical Applications of Epidermal Stem Cells
Drug Dosing: Infants and Children
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Acne Infection

