The efficacy, safety, and stability of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment in treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo

Background Topical immunoarm adulators have been successfully used as a monotherapy or in combination with other therapeutic modalities in vitiligo treatment. Topical tacrolimus has been reported to promote melanoblast differentiation and groth. Additionally, it promotes a favorable environement that enhances the proliferation of melanocytes/ melanoblasts through an interaction with keratinocytes, and thereby repopulating vitigiginous skin lesions. Aim To detect the effect of tacrolimus ointements in treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo. Method A total of 35 patients with vitiligo were enrolled in Tacrolimus this randomized placebo‑controlled study. Two vitiliginous patches were chosen in each patient. The first lesion (A) was treated by tacrolimus 0.03% ointment, and the second lesion (B) was treated by panthenol cream as a placebo. Treatment course was 3 months, and follow‑up was done for three extra months. Vitiliginous patches were assessed at baseline and monthly for 6 months. Results Moderate to excellent response was observed in 25.7% of lesions A compared with 0% of lesions B (P = 0.002). Disease duration has a negative effect on therapeutic response. No adverse effects were noted to tacrolimus ointment except for mild erythema in 6% of the patients. Coclusion Given its immunomodulatory properties and lack of cutaneous adverse effects, tacrolimus is a potential therapeutic alternative for vitiligo, with an improved benefit‑risk ratio.