Tacrolimus (ointment)

Immune-calming ointment
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Tacrolimus is a immune-calming ointment found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Tacroz Forte. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: tacrolimus

What it is used for

Treats eczema (atopic dermatitis), including on the face, without steroid side effects.

How it works

An immune-calming ointment for eczema, especially on the face and eyelids where steroids are less suitable.

How to take it

Thin layer twice a day; avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds. Burning in the first week usually fades.

Common side effects

  • Burning or itching at first
  • Flushing with alcohol

Get medical help straight away if

  • Skin infection, cold sores spreading
  • New lumps or swollen glands

Be careful

Burning at first is common; avoid strong sun. Tablets of tacrolimus are a different, transplant medicine.

Other medicines and interactions

Alcohol can cause facial flushing.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor before use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Tacrolimus (1)

Common questions

What is Tacrolimus used for?

Treats eczema (atopic dermatitis), including on the face, without steroid side effects.

How does Tacrolimus work?

An immune-calming ointment for eczema, especially on the face and eyelids where steroids are less suitable.

How should I take Tacrolimus?

Thin layer twice a day; avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds. Burning in the first week usually fades.

What are the side effects of Tacrolimus?

Common: Burning or itching at first, flushing with alcohol. Get help straight away for: Skin infection, cold sores spreading, new lumps or swollen glands.

Does Tacrolimus interact with other medicines?

Alcohol can cause facial flushing.

Is Tacrolimus safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor before use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Tacrolimus need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Tacrolimus?

Tacroz Forte.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.