Generic Protopic

Protopic is a non-steroidal ointment used to treat moderate to severe eczema by calming the skin's immune response. It contains tacrolimus, which helps reduce inflammation and itching.

Buy online · Medical info

  • Category: Skin Care
  • Active ingredient: Tacrolimus
  • Available Dosage: 0.03%, 0.1%
  • Payment options: VISA, Mastercard, Amex, JCB, Dinners
  • Delivery time: Airmail (10 - 21 days), EMS Trackable (5-9 days)

Buy Generic Protopic Online

Generic Protopic 0.03%
Package Price
0.03% x 4 tubes£67.37
0.03% x 5 tubes£65.88
0.03% x 3 tubes£57.74
0.03% x 2 tubes£40.72
Generic Protopic 0.1%
Package Price
0.1% x 5 tubes£135.46
0.1% x 4 tubes£115.47
0.1% x 3 tubes£91.78
0.1% x 2 tubes£64.39
0.1% x 1 tube£34.05

Generic Protopic information

Introduction

Protopic (tacrolimus) is a topical immunomodulatory agent approved for the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders, principally atopic dermatitis that is unsuitable for conventional corticosteroid therapy. In the United Kingdom, it is regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and supplied under the brand name Protopic, manufactured by Astellas Pharma. The medication belongs to the skin‑care drug group and contains the active compound tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor that modulates cellular immune responses. Although its primary indication is moderate‑to‑severe atopic eczema, Protopic has also been employed off‑label for conditions such as lichen planus and vitiligo when standard treatments fail.

What is Protopic?

  • Classification – Topical calcineurin inhibitor (TCI).
  • Active ingredient – Tacrolimus, .03 % (.1 mg/g) or .1 % (.5 mg/g) ointment.
  • Development – Derived from the macrolide immunosuppressant tacrolimus, originally isolated from Streptomyces species.
  • Manufacturer – Astellas Pharma (global marketing rights).

Protopic is a licensed product formulated as a white to off‑white ointment for cutaneous application. It is intended for use on intact skin where inflammation is driven by T‑cell activation.

How Protopic Works

Tacrolimus binds selectively to the intracellular protein FKBP‑12 (FK506‑binding protein). The tacrolimus–FKBP‑12 complex inhibits the phosphatase activity of calcineurin, preventing dephosphorylation of the nuclear factor of activated T‑cells (NF‑AT). Without NF‑AT activation, transcription of interleukin‑2 (IL‑2) and other pro‑inflammatory cytokines is suppressed. The result is reduced T‑cell proliferation and diminished release of mediators that sustain eczema, lichen planus, or vitiligo lesions.

  • Onset of action – Clinical improvement often appears within 2–4 weeks of consistent twice‑daily application, although maximal benefit may require 8–12 weeks.
  • Duration – Effects are maintained while treatment continues; discontinuation may lead to relapse of the underlying disease.
  • Clearance – Systemic absorption is minimal in healthy skin (average plasma concentrations < 5 ng/mL), but can increase with compromised barrier function or extensive surface area use.

Conditions Treated with Protopic

  • Atopic dermatitis (moderate‑to‑severe) – The main approved indication in the UK. Atopic eczema affects up to 20 % of children and 10 % of adults; a substantial subset does not respond adequately to topical steroids.
  • Lichen planus – An inflammatory papular disorder where TCIs have demonstrated symptom relief in small‑scale trials.
  • Vitiligo (segmental and non‑segmental) – Off‑label use to promote repigmentation by reducing autoimmune melanocyte destruction; evidence from controlled studies shows modest improvement when combined with phototherapy.

These conditions share a pathogenic basis of T‑cell‑mediated inflammation, explaining why tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, provides therapeutic benefit.

Who is Protopic For?

  • Adults with chronic atopic dermatitis whose disease remains uncontrolled after standard topical corticosteroids or who experience steroid‑induced skin atrophy.
  • Patients requiring a steroid‑sparing approach – for example, those with facial eczema, intertriginous areas, or sensitive skin where long‑term steroid use is undesirable.
  • Individuals with lichen planus or vitiligo who have not responded to first‑line agents such as topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors are a recognised second‑line option.

Contra‑indications include: known hypersensitivity to tacrolimus or any component of the ointment; active cutaneous infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal) without appropriate antimicrobial therapy; and patients with a history of systemic tacrolimus toxicity. Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women should be evaluated carefully; current MHRA guidance advises avoidance unless benefits outweigh potential risks.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

  • Transient burning or stinging on application – reported in up to 50 % of users, typically diminishes after several weeks.
  • Pruritus – may worsen before improving as inflammation subsides.
  • Mild erythema – localized redness without ulceration.

Rare

  • Contact dermatitis – allergic reaction to the ointment base; requires discontinuation and alternative therapy.
  • Folliculitis – secondary bacterial infection of hair follicles in treated area.

Serious

  • Systemic immunosuppression – extremely rare but possible with extensive application over large body surface (> 20 % BSA); may predispose to opportunistic infections.
  • Malignancy concerns – long‑term post‑marketing surveillance has not demonstrated a causal link between topical tacrolimus and skin cancer, yet MHRA advises periodic skin examinations.
Drug–Drug Interactions
  • Systemic tacrolimus – concurrent oral tacrolimus can increase overall immunosuppressive load; clinical monitoring is advisable.
  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) – may modestly raise systemic tacrolimus levels if absorption is increased; caution is recommended.
  • Live vaccines – immunosuppressive effect of tacrolimus can reduce vaccine efficacy; avoid live attenuated vaccines while using extensive topical therapy.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

  • Standard dosing – Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected area twice daily (approximately 12 hours apart). The .03 % strength is typical for mild‑moderate disease; the .1 % strength is reserved for severe or resistant lesions.
  • Quantity guidance – One fingertip unit (≈ .5 g) generally covers an area of about 2 cm × 2 cm; adjust based on lesion size.
  • Missed dose – Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is imminent; in that case, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not double‑dose.
  • Overdose – Excessive application (e.g., > 50 g/day) may increase systemic absorption. If overdose is suspected, wash the skin with soap and water, seek medical advice, and monitor for systemic symptoms such as malaise or unexplained fever.
  • Precautions – Avoid concurrent use of other topical corticosteroids on the same area unless directed by a clinician. Alcoholic beverages do not directly affect topical tacrolimus but excessive intake may impair wound healing. Patients with hepatic impairment should use the lower strength, as tacrolimus is metabolised hepatically.

Buying Protopic from Our Online Pharmacy

Protopic can be purchased directly from our online pharmacy in the UK. We specialise in providing authentic, cost‑effective generic medications while maintaining the highest standards of safety and privacy.

  • Affordable pricing – Our supply chain sources the product close to manufacturer cost, passing savings on to the consumer.
  • Verified quality – All batches are sourced from licensed overseas pharmacies that meet EU‑GMP standards and are inspected by independent quality agencies.
  • Guaranteed delivery – Orders dispatched within 24 hours, with options for discreet 7‑day express shipping or standard airmail (~ 3 weeks). Tracking is provided for every shipment.
  • Online‑only access – We operate as a pharmacy‑broker service, partnering with internationally accredited suppliers. This model enables us to offer medications that may be scarce or unavailable through conventional UK pharmacies, while ensuring confidentiality for patients who value privacy.

Our service is intended for adults who have limited access to traditional pharmacy channels or who seek a reliable, affordable alternative to branded products. All shipments comply with UK import regulations for personal use, and customs clearance is handled by our logistics team.

FAQ

  • Is Protopic available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
    Yes. Protopic is the brand‑name product marketed by Astellas Pharma, while the same active ingredient, tacrolimus, is also supplied by independent manufacturers as a generic ointment. Generic versions typically cost less but contain an equivalent amount of tacrolimus.

  • Does Protopic require special storage conditions?
    The ointment should be stored at controlled room temperature (15–25 °C). It must be kept away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture. No refrigeration is necessary, but the product should not be frozen.

  • What does the packaging of Protopic look like when ordered online?
    Each tube contains 15 g of ointment and is sealed with a tamper‑evident cap. The outer packaging includes the product name, strength (.03 % or .1 %), batch number, and expiry date. Labels are printed in English and comply with UK labelling regulations.

  • Can Protopic be safely imported into the UK for personal use?
    Personal importation of up to three months’ supply for an individual adult is permitted under UK customs rules, provided the product is for personal medical use and is declared accurately. Our online pharmacy ensures all documentation meets these requirements.

  • Is there any specific warning for Asian populations regarding Protopic?
    Clinical studies have not identified ethnicity‑specific safety concerns for tacrolimus ointment. However, some Asian patients may experience a higher incidence of local skin irritation, possibly due to differences in skin barrier properties. Monitoring for local reactions is advised.

  • Does the formulation of Protopic differ between regions such as the EU, US, and Asia?
    The core active ingredient (tacrolimus) and concentration are consistent across regions, but excipients such as the ointment base may vary to meet local regulatory standards. For example, the EU formulation may contain a different preservative than the US version. These differences do not affect therapeutic potency.

  • How long can an opened tube of Protopic be used safely?
    Once opened, the ointment remains stable for up to 12 months if stored correctly. After this period, potency may decline, and the risk of microbial contamination increases. Discard any tube that shows discoloration, foul odor, or signs of leakage.

  • What should a traveller do with Protopic when crossing international borders?
    Carry the medication in its original packaging with a clear label indicating the active ingredient and strength. Declare the product at customs if required, and keep it in carry‑on luggage to avoid temperature extremes in the cargo hold.

  • Can Protopic be combined with phototherapy for vitiligo treatment?
    Yes. Concurrent narrow‑band UVB phototherapy is commonly employed to enhance repigmentation when using tacrolimus ointment for vitiligo. The combination is generally well tolerated, but patients should be monitored for increased skin sensitivity.

  • Are there any known interactions between Protopic and over‑the‑counter antihistamines?
    Topical tacrolimus has no pharmacokinetic interaction with oral antihistamines, as it is minimally absorbed systemically. Patients may continue antihistamines for itch control without dose adjustment.

Glossary

Calcineurin inhibitor
A class of drugs that block the activity of calcineurin, an enzyme essential for T‑cell activation, thereby reducing immune‑mediated inflammation.
FKBP‑12 (FK506‑binding protein 12)
An intracellular protein that binds tacrolimus; the resulting complex inhibits calcineurin, leading to decreased cytokine production.
BSA (Body Surface Area)
The percentage of the total skin surface involved in treatment; used to estimate systemic exposure risk for topical agents.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Protopic is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Protopic for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.

Information about ordering Generic Protopic online

Buy placing an order on our website you must agree to the following: Your are above 18 years old, You do not have any contraindications to tacrolimus so you can use Generic Protopic safely, We do not provide any paper instructions, side effect warnings or usage directions with medication Protopic. They are available only online on our website. We do not provide any doctors consultation -- please consult with your doctor before using this medication. We provide you a cheap alternative to save cost but we cannot replace real practioning medical specialist. When you order Generic Protopic without a prescription you agreee that you will get generic pills manufactured in Inida, they will be shipped to you in anonymous package except you ordered traceable delivery. From our side we guarantee quality of Generic Protopic - tacrolimus medication that is sold through our site. We do our best and send medication in a valid condition and safely packed, however we may not guarantee worry free delivery to some countries where strict customs rules may apply. If you have questions do not hesitate to call us or use Live chat. After you place your order we may call you back for verification purposes.