What Is Protopic? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Protopic is a prescription ointment used to treat eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children. If you or your child has been prescribed Protopic, or if your dermatologist mentioned it as a treatment option, here's everything you need to know — in plain English.

What Is Protopic?

Protopic is the brand name for tacrolimus ointment, available in two strengths: 0.03% and 0.1%. It belongs to a class of drugs called topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs). Protopic is manufactured by Astellas Pharma; generic versions (also called tacrolimus ointment) are made by companies like Padagis and are bioequivalent to the brand.

Unlike topical steroids (corticosteroids), Protopic does not contain any steroid compound. This is one of its key advantages: it can be used on sensitive skin areas like the face, eyelids, and skin folds without the risk of skin thinning that comes with long-term steroid use.

What Is Protopic Used For?

Protopic is FDA-approved for:

Moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in patients 2 years of age and older who have failed other treatments (such as topical corticosteroids), or who cannot tolerate other treatments.

Protopic is classified as a second-line therapy — meaning it's typically prescribed after first-line treatments (like topical steroids) haven't provided adequate control.

Protopic is also used off-label (not FDA-approved, but evidence-supported) for:

Vitiligo (loss of skin pigmentation) — particularly on the face and neck

Facial/intertriginous (skin fold) psoriasis

Seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, lichen sclerosus, cutaneous lupus

Dosage: How Much Protopic Should You Use?

The correct strength and dosing depends on your age:

Children ages 2–15: Protopic 0.03% ointment, applied twice daily to affected areas

Adults and teenagers 16+: Protopic 0.03% or 0.1%, applied twice daily to affected areas. The 0.1% is stronger and may be preferred for moderate-severe disease on the body.

Children under 2: Protopic is NOT recommended.

How to Apply Protopic Correctly

Wash your hands before applying.

Make sure the skin is dry (do not apply to wet skin).

Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin areas. Use the minimum amount needed to cover the area.

Rub in gently and completely.

Wash your hands after applying (unless your hands are the area being treated).

Do NOT cover the area with bandages, wraps, or tight clothing — this increases absorption and risk.

Do not bathe, swim, or shower immediately after applying — this can wash off the ointment before it's absorbed.

If you also use moisturizer, apply it after Protopic (not before).

When Should You Stop Using Protopic?

Stop using Protopic when your eczema symptoms resolve. Protopic is not intended for continuous indefinite use. If your eczema flares again, you can restart. If there is no improvement after 6 weeks of twice-daily use, contact your dermatologist — the diagnosis may need to be re-evaluated.

Key Safety Points

Not for children under 2 years

Boxed warning: potential cancer risk (causal link not confirmed)

Increases sun sensitivity — use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure

Avoid use on infected skin — stop and contact your doctor if infection develops

Not for patients with compromised immune systems (immunocompromised patients)

For a deeper dive into how Protopic works at the cellular level, see our post How Does Protopic Work?. For side effect details, see Protopic Side Effects.