What is considered short-term use for topical medications?

[Duke88]

I want to know if two weeks is considered long-term or short-term use associated with the use of TCI's, specifically "Elidel"? I used Elidel for about 12 days in a row & I'm now concerned as to whether that was too long to safely use considering the warnings on it regarding long-term use. So is 2 weeks considered a short-term use with this topical medication, or what exactly is "short-term use" defined as?

[Duke88]

Okay.. however I specifically asked about "Elidel" which is not a steroid, it is a TCI or (topical calcineurin inhibitor)! so what is considered short term for this?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Short and long term use of steroids is different depending on the potency of steroids. If it is a mild steroid then 5-10 days use can be considered short term and in case of a high potency steroid, use of 3-5 days is considered short term.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.