TLDR Tacrolimus ointment is effective for various skin conditions but needs more research for long-term effects.
The document reviews two decades of off-label use of tacrolimus ointment for various dermatological conditions, including rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and alopecia. It highlights the ointment's efficacy in treating these conditions, particularly noting its role in managing alopecia, although studies involving 11 patients showed no significant hair regrowth. Tacrolimus is effective in areas like the face and genitals for psoriasis and is comparable to high-potency topical corticosteroids in treating oral lichen planus, with studies involving up to 965 patients. The review underscores the need for further research to understand its long-term effects and optimal usage, while recognizing its anti-inflammatory properties and lack of typical corticosteroid side effects.
3 citations
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January 2025 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for managing Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia.
1 citations
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September 2024 in “Life” Combining fractionated CO2 laser with tacrolimus may help treat chronic alopecia areata.
4 citations
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November 2023 in “Frontiers in immunology” New treatments targeting T-cell pathways are needed for better alopecia areata management.
57 citations
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August 2023 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” JAK inhibitors and platelet-rich plasma show promise for treating alopecia areata.
1 citations
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December 2022 in “Journal of cosmetic dermatology” The combination of vitamin D analogues with potent steroids is a favorable treatment for alopecia areata with fewer side effects.
July 2022 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Isotretinoin with tacrolimus may be more effective short-term for treating frontal fibrosing alopecia than finasteride with tacrolimus.
11 citations
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April 2020 in “Journal of Dermatological Treatment” Taking oral isotretinoin with creams worked better for treating a type of hair loss than creams alone.
48 citations
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January 2011 in “International journal of trichology” Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide is the most effective treatment for localized alopecia areata.
26 citations
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March 2007 in “Clinical and experimental dermatology” Pimecrolimus cream is not effective for treating alopecia areata.
19 citations
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September 2002 in “Acta dermato-venereologica” Topical tacrolimus did not regrow hair in alopecia universalis patients.