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Desonide vs. Tacrolimus

Desonide is a topical steroid used on the skin to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness from certain skin conditions, including eczema. It comes in many forms, such as a cream, lotion, gel, and ointment. You apply it directly to the affected skin 2 to 4 times a day, depending on how serious the condition is. Potential side effects include burning, itching, and stinging where it's applied.

• Skin rashes and other skin irritations - cream, lotion, and ointment
• Eczema in adults and children 3 months and older - gel only

Cream:

• Itching (1%)
• Pain (1%)
• Rash (1%)
• Redness (1%)
• Irritation (1%)
• Burning (1%)

Lotion:

• Irritation (3%)
• Peeling of the skin (3%)
• Itching (3%)
• Redness (3%)
• Dryness (3%)

Ointment:

• Redness (6%)
• Itching (6%)
• Irritation (6%)
• Oily skin (6%)

Gel:

• Headache (2%)
• Burning (1%)
• Rash (1%)
• Itching (1%)

• Changes in stress hormone levels
• Skin infection
• Skin irritation

Tacrolimus (Protopic) is a prescription non-steroid ointment used short-term on the skin to treat moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis). It's a calcineurin inhibitor that helps lower the immune system’s response so it doesn’t cause inflammation and make eczema worse. Tacrolimus (Protopic) is approved for both adults and children ages 2 years and older who don't have a weakened immune system. It comes as both a brand-name and generic ointment that you apply to the affected area twice daily. Common side effects include stinging, itching, and a burning sensation at the application site.

• Moderate-to-severe eczema in adults and children ages 2 years and older

Adults:

• Skin burning (up to 58%)
• Itchiness (up to 46%)
• Flu-like symptoms (up to 31%)
• Skin redness (up to 28%)
• Headache (up to 20%)

Children:

• Skin burning (up to 43%)
• Itchiness (up to 41%)
• Flu-like symptoms (up to 34%)

• Long-term use and risk of cancer
• Risk of infection
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Sun exposure
• Sudden kidney failure