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 firstt 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 ( = 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.