
Eucrisa
Eucrisa (crisaborole) is a steroid-free ointment that's used to treat eczema. It's approved for adults and children ages 3 months and older. This medication is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that works to help reduce skin inflammation and itching from eczema. The ointment is usually applied to the affected area(s) of skin twice a day. The most common side effect is burning or stinging on the skin where you apply the medication.
What is Eucrisa (crisaborole)?
What is Eucrisa (crisaborole) used for?
- Mild-to-moderate eczema
How Eucrisa (crisaborole) works
Eucrisa (crisaborole) is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It blocks a protein called PDE4. This protein plays a role in eczema and skin inflammation.
By blocking PDE4, Eucrisa (crisaborole) helps lessen itching, redness, and other symptoms of eczema.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Eucrisa |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | PDE4 inhibitor |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Eucrisa (crisaborole) essentials
Side effects of Eucrisa (crisaborole)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Pain, burning, or stinging where the medication is applied (4%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Itchy, red rash (hives)
Eucrisa (crisaborole) serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Allergic reaction: itchy red rash (hives); severe swelling of the skin; shortness of breath; chest tightness; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
The following Eucrisa (crisaborole) side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
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Pros and cons of Eucrisa (crisaborole)
Pros
- Easy-to-apply ointment
- Can be used on children as young as 3 months old
- An alternative to topical steroids for treating eczema
- Safe for long-term use
Cons
- Must use twice a day at first
- Can cause pain, burning, or stinging on the skin where you applied the medication
- Might not start to see improvement for about 1 week or longer
- Not approved for severe eczema
Pharmacist tips for Eucrisa (crisaborole)
- Apply Eucrisa (crisaborole) onto the areas of eczema twice a day, or as directed by your prescriber. Try to use the ointment around the same times each day. Making it a part of your daily routine can be helpful for remembering to apply the medication.
- Apply Eucrisa (crisaborole) onto your skin only. Don't get it in your eyes, mouth, or vagina because it can lead to serious irritation.
- You might want to try Eucrisa (crisaborole) on a small area of skin the first time you use it. The medication can sometimes cause burning or stinging on the skin. Testing first can help you see how your skin reacts before you use it regularly.
- Wash your hands after applying Eucrisa (crisaborole), unless you're treating eczema on your hands. If someone helps apply the medication, they should wash their hands afterward too. This helps keep the medication from getting onto sensitive areas where it can cause irritation. For example, you could get the medication in your eyes if you rub them before washing your hands.
- It's a good idea to keep using a moisturizer to help with dry skin from eczema. Wait at least 15 minutes after applying Eucrisa (crisaborole) before using a moisturizer. This gives your skin time to absorb the medication first.
- There are other ways to help manage eczema while using Eucrisa (crisaborole). Use warm, not hot, water when you shower or bathe. Also avoid using laundry detergent, cleaning products, and soaps with preservatives, dyes, or fragrances. These can be too harsh and irritating. Following these tips can help prevent eczema flare-ups.
- Store Eucrisa (crisaborole) at room temperature. Keep the tube tightly closed when you're not using it.
- If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding: Speak with your prescriber. There isn't enough information to know if Eucrisa (crisaborole) is safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. This also means we aren't sure if the medication can cause harm to your baby. Your prescriber can discuss risks and benefits and help choose a safe option for you.
Risks and warnings for Eucrisa (crisaborole)
Eucrisa (crisaborole) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Allergic reactions
Some people have had allergic reactions to Eucrisa (crisaborole). This can include hives. Stop using the medication and tell your care team right away if you have severe itching, swelling, or redness after applying it. Get emergency medical help right away if you have trouble breathing or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Eucrisa (crisaborole) dosage
How much does Eucrisa (crisaborole) cost?
$158.48
What are alternatives to Eucrisa (crisaborole)?
News about Eucrisa (crisaborole)

