For lupus rash,which cream is better; protopic 0.1% or elidel (pimecrolimus) 1% ? and please describe the difference between the two. thanks.

Protopic.: Protopic and Elidel (pimecrolimus) are calcineurin inhibitors -- anti-inflammatory topical medications. Most dermatologists (me included) feel that Protopic works better than Elidel (pimecrolimus), and neither works as well as steroid creams on inflammatory skin diseases such as lupus - but they lack the steroid-related side effect risks, so worth a try before going to a steroid cream.

Similar products: Protopic and Elidel (pimecrolimus) are both products that act like topical cortisone creams, without having any cortisone in them. Protopic is an ointment, which means it is clear like a Vaseline. Elidel (pimecrolimus) is a cream, so it is white. An ointment might penetrate better. Protopic might sting for a few minutes after you apply it. This is normal. It is hare to say which one works better. Start with Protopic