To investigate the influence of the warnings provided in the package insert of tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) , a survey on its actual use, including the use of topical corticosteroids, was administered to 363 physicians who were familiar with AD treatment in dermatology and pediatrics.
As for the reason for drug selection, 98.1% (topical corticosteroids) and 60.1% (tacrolimus ointment) of the physicians recommended both topical treatments because "the effect is favorable" , while 21.2% (topical corticosteroids) and 73.2% (tacrolimus ointment) recommended the drugs because "fewer adverse events develop" . In terms of the cancer risk of tacrolimus ointment, 85.4% of the physicians considered it to be safe, but 19.6% had experienced patients' refusal to use it (or their parents) after an explanation of the cancer risk. With respect to the "accountability for warning of cancer risk" in the package insert, 73.5% of the physicians considered that it interferes with prescriptions, and 68.0% considered that it is disadvantageous for patients. This survey revealed that the "accountability for warning of cancer risk" of tacrolimus ointment prevents patients from having the opportunity to undergo effective treatment.
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