Is Elidel safe to use on the penis skin?

[Duke88]

I was diagnosed with atopic dermatitis by a dermatologist and precribed Elidel or (pimecrolimus cream). I was told that Elidel does not have the side effects associated with topical steroid creams such as skin thinning and discoloration. This was necessary since the area affected is right on the skin around the meatus of my penis. Anyways, I used the Elidel for almost 12 days (twice a day) without any significant results, so I stopped. What I want to know is this enough time for the Elidel to take full effect? Could it have done any harm to my skin after almost two weeks use, since it didn't really help, if so then what? And, does Elidel thin or damage sensitive skin such as that on the penis or should I have kept using it for longer?

[Duke88]

Allow me to re-phrase the question doctor. I want to know if nearly 2 weeks(12 days) of using Elidel could have done any harm to sensitive or naturally thin skin? Was this too long to use it, or when should I have seen a difference by in your opinion? Please respond as soon as possible!

[Duke88]

Thanks for your response doctor. Although, do you think the 12 days was too long for me to use the Elidel without seeing effects? I mean could it have done any harm to that skin, since I used it for nearly two weeks and it didn't really improve anything?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

While it is true that elidel does not have the major side effects associated with steroids, two weeks of use should have been a good time for effects to take place. Since there has been no improvement in the symptoms, you may consider a review with your treating dermatologist to either reconsider the diagnosis or suggest an alternative management plan.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!