Benefits from the use of a pimecrolimus-based treatment in the management of atopic dermatitis in clinical practice -: Analysis of a Swiss cohort

Background: Controlled studies established the efficacy and good tolerability of pimecrolimus cream 1% for the treatment of atopic dermatitis but they may not reflect real-life use. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and cosmetic acceptance of a pimecrolimus-based regimen in daily practice in Switzerland. Methods: This was a 6-month, open-label, multicentre study in 109 patients (55% 6 18 years) with atopic dermatitis. Pimecrolimus cream 1% was incorporated into patients' standard treatment protocols. Results: The pimecrolimus-based treatment was well tolerated and produced disease improvement in 65.7% of patients. It was particularly effective on the face (improvement rate: 75.0%). Mean pimecrolimus consumption decreased from 6.4 g/day (months 1-3) to 4.0 g/day (months 3-6) as disease improved. Most patients (74.1%) rated their disease control as 'complete' or 'good' and 90% were highly satisfied with the cream formulation. Conclusion: The use of a pimecrolimus-based regimen in everyday practice was effective, well tolerated and well accepted by patients. Copyright (c) 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.