Pimecrolimus is an immunomodulating agent used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. It is currently available as a topical cream, marketed by Novartis, under the trade name Elidel®.
Pharmacology
Pimecrolimus is an ascomycin macrolactam derivative. It has been shown in vitro that pimecrolimus binds to macrophilin-12 and inhibits calcineurin. Thus pimecrolimus inhibits T-cell activation by inhibiting the synthesis and release of cytokines from T-cells. Pimecrolimus also prevents the release of inflammatory cytokines and mediators from mast cells.