Itching on the skin is a rather unpleasant and irritating phenomenon. The last thing you want to do is leave the house and appear in a public place. But what causes this disease, and how to get rid of it in one day or week? These questions are asked by everyone who is faced with a problem. The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best remedies for itchy skin for 2020.
What is used for various symptoms
When a person encounters parasites, they can be removed using standard means. It is not necessary to use medications. The best shampoo is one that contains ingredients that prevent the development of lice and nits. The latter can be eliminated not only with washing liquids, but also with a comb, for this they are combed out.
If the user has scabies, it is more difficult to get rid of. To prevent persistent itching, appropriate ointments are used. Such parasites live not only on the human body, but also on clothes or bedding. Therefore, things must be washed, this is the only way to get rid of these microorganisms.
Using antihistamines, a person can quickly get rid of inflammation due to an allergy or bite.
Glucocorticosteroids are used depending on the situation. The drug is suitable for both external and internal use. Unpleasant symptoms are eliminated by reducing the activity of cells that produce histamine. The drug is highly effective in cases of allergies or dermatosis.
If the patient has generalized itching, then treatment in this case can be hazardous to health. Since it is first necessary to understand the causes of the formation of such a disease.
Most often, this itching is a symptom of some disease, for example, it could be problems with the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, malignant neoplasm or diabetes. If the latter is present, it is necessary to constantly monitor glucose. Eliminate all foods containing sugar from your diet. If such therapy does not help, the patient is transferred to insulin.
Also, problems with itching are familiar to people with kidney failure. However, in their case, everything is more complicated, since hemodialysis is required. This procedure is aimed at maintaining normal levels of nitrogen metabolism in the blood. Thanks to this, the severity of the symptoms disappears, which is why the person does not experience discomfort.
Conclusion
To completely get rid of discomfort and constant itching, it is necessary to use complex therapy methods. To combat a serious problem, you need to use not only tablets and injections, but also various ointments, gels, creams, etc. Treatment with medications for itchy skin should be strictly under the supervision of a doctor; self-medication is unacceptable.
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Popular remedies for itching
Itchy skin is accompanied by an unpleasant tickling sensation that covers most of the body. When it appears, the user forgets about normal sleep and comfortable rest, becoming irritable. You can get rid of it at home, but it is not recommended to buy the first remedy you come across, as it can harm the body.
There are several causes of the disease:
- Generalized. In this case, only a specific area of the skin itches. Does not extend further.
- Localized causes more trouble, as a person experiences discomfort throughout the body.
- Dermatological itching is also common, which occurs due to certain reasons.
- If you have kidney disease or liver problems, systemic itching appears.
- During times of stress, a person develops a harmless psychogenic itch. However, it is also important to pay attention to it so that there are no complications.
- There is a neuropathic scratch, it manifests itself due to certain diseases of the nervous system. It is not recommended to treat on your own; it is better to trust a professional.
- When coming into contact with water, some people experience a slight tickling sensation, this is called aquagenic itch.
A person itches for the reason that more blood flows to the upper layer of the skin, it activates certain receptors, which creates an uncomfortable feeling. When blood cells begin to secrete hormones and waste in large quantities, this indicates some kind of abnormality in the body. Therefore, it is recommended to eliminate the problem only after consulting a doctor, so as not to aggravate the situation.
Treatment for itchy skin
Localized (limited) skin itching most often affects the anus, perineum and genitals; or the scalp. Along with the mentioned causes of itching, localized skin itching is more often provoked by local causes (hemorrhoids, helminthic infestation, proctitis, prostatitis, leucorrhoea, seborrhea, etc.).
Localized skin itching most often occurs in the form of attacks of itching. Patients with itchy skin are subject to thorough examination by a therapist and endocrinologist in order to identify the cause of itching and treatment of the underlying disease. In the treatment of skin itching, when the cause is eliminated, a diet is prescribed with a restriction of carbohydrates, spicy, smoked, pork, seafood, and alcohol.
Types of skin diseases
If dermatological diseases are to blame, then burning and itching in a certain place may not be the only problem. In addition to these symptoms, blistering and swelling are common. Itching is also experienced by people who have psoriasis, but scratching in this case is prohibited; you can damage the outer membrane, which will lead to bleeding.
Presence of internal problems
The external part, although susceptible to burning, is not always the main source of the disease. The desire to scratch may occur due to disruption of the internal organs. For example, hepatic itching occurs when the outflow of bile is disrupted. There are two types: intrahepatic cholestasis and extrahepatic.
The problem may also arise due to improper functioning of the kidneys. There is a burning sensation throughout the body, which can be mild or severe. With a blood disease, it is also common to want to scratch certain areas or all at once. If the body experiences an acute shortage of important vitamins, acne begins to form on the outer shell, which constantly itch.
Presence of physiological reasons
In this case, a person itches due to exposure to certain environmental factors. It is not as dangerous as previous options and lasts a short period of time. Therefore there will be no problems. Often the causes of these symptoms include:
- Dry skin;
- Exposure to the sun;
- Mosquito bite;
- A sharp rise in temperature;
- Irritation due to certain products or sweat.
Infectious cause
Unlike the previous option, the infection is more dangerous. Often the trigger for itching is a mite. The burning sensation in the bite area intensifies after taking a bath or visiting the pool. In addition to the bite, infectious causes of scratching include chickenpox and herpes.
Ointments to stop burning
One of the effective means of preventing skin itching is the use of special ointments. Thanks to their action, severe symptoms caused by allergies or dermatological diseases are reduced.
It is necessary to use drugs only after consultation with a treating specialist. He will conduct an examination and determine the cause of the disease. He will prescribe the only correct course of treatment, following which the irritation of the area will go away in a few days.
Ointments are selected only for a specific type of cover. For example, if a patient has dry skin, a coolant or appropriate solution would be the best solution. In another case, when the tissues are oily, it is necessary to use gels or tinctures with a thick consistency.
In most medicines of this type, the active ingredients are camphor, zinc, and in some cases the use of salicylic acid is allowed. With proper use of the drugs, the negative effects will stop after 3-5 days. It is necessary to apply an even thin layer and gently rub into the affected area.
Main types of tablets
To eliminate inflammation and get rid of symptoms forever, using an ointment may not be enough. Therefore, doctors prescribe special medications that affect the internal cause of the burning sensation.
When the desire to scratch is caused by unhealthy foods or allergies to certain medications, specialists prescribe antihistamines. They eliminate symptoms in the shortest possible time, which is suitable for people who want to get rid of the burning sensation in an hour.
The composition contains active components that instantly affect the irritated area and also block histamine in the body. It is this biological substance that is the main cause of burning.
Such funds appeared at the beginning of the 20th century and are still considered relevant. The only difference between modern solutions and previous ones is high efficiency and a minimum of side effects. This allows everyone to use the drug and not be afraid of complications in the future.
There are 3 generations of antihistamines. The first group includes popular medications: tavegil, suprastin, etc. The main feature of these options is their high efficiency and elimination of itching in the shortest possible time. There is also a negative side - a sedative effect, which becomes even worse if during the course of treatment a person decides to drink alcohol.
Also, such drugs have a high hypnotic effect. Despite the fact that histamine is blocked quickly and the person no longer feels a burning sensation in the affected area, the effect does not last long, only 5-8 hours, after which the medicine must be reapplied.
It is also not recommended to use first-generation drugs if human activity is associated with increased concentrations. Because you won’t be able to concentrate, which can cause some problems.
Some drugs, for example, diazolin, have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tract, and in some cases cause dependence. Doctors are aware of this feature of the drugs and prescribe them last, when the others are ineffective.
2nd and 3rd generation drugs have a longer effect on histamines, while having a slight hypnotic effect. They can be used without any particular health risks. The recommended daily dose is one tablet per day. The course of treatment can last a year, it all depends on the causes of itching.
Classification of ointments for itching of the skin
Tablets for body skin itching are classified by generation. There are 3 generations of drugs, which are listed in the table.
Generation No. | Description | pros | Minuses |
1 | The drugs were the very first to appear on the market. Their effect is not as long-lasting when compared with tablets of other generations. Therefore, such drugs need to be taken in large dosages, which increases the risk of side effects. The body quickly gets used to 1st generation drugs, so they need to be replaced every 14 to 21 days if a person needs constant use. This group includes Suprastin, Tavegil, Diazolin. Diphenhydramine is also prescribed |
|
|
2 | Drowsiness is not typical for this group. After using the drugs, work that requires increased concentration is allowed. Due to the long-lasting effect of the products, it is enough to take them once a day. The group includes Claritin, Zyrtec, Zodak. And also Fenistil, Kestin |
| If the functionality of the liver is impaired, the main component accumulates in the blood - this can negatively affect cardiac activity |
3 | The drugs are considered the safest and most effective compared to tablets of other generations. But the funds are very expensive. Among the advantages, one can note the lack of influence on the heart, central nervous system and mental activity. 3rd generation tablets include Erius, Xyzal, Allegra |
| None |
Ointments for itchy skin in adults are of the following types:
- Anesthetics. They contain active substances that provide an anti-inflammatory effect. They are used for mild itching, which can be caused by bites of various insects.
- Antihistamines. Eliminate swelling and inflammation and improve skin condition.
- Antifungal. Prescribed when itching is a consequence of infection.
- Non-hormonal ointments. They have a disinfecting effect that accelerates the process of skin restoration.
- Hormonal. Potent remedies for inflammation and allergic skin manifestations.
Rating of the best 2nd generation antihistamines
Kestin
Long-term exposure is the main advantage of the drug. The desire to scratch will leave the user and will not bother him for 2 days. The drug is used in the spring, but some people also take it before trying Thai or Chinese cuisine. The main active ingredient is ebastine.
After entering the body, the tablet is quickly absorbed and completely dissolves in the liver, without causing harm to health. Excreted through the kidneys. The effect of the medication begins an hour after application. Does not cause a pronounced sedative effect.
The average cost is 330 rubles.
Kestin
Advantages:
- Convenient use;
- Suitable for children;
- Not addictive;
- Valid for 72 hours (after a 5-day course);
- Minimum side effects.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Loratadine
A popular allergy remedy, suitable for both adults and children over 2 years old. The difference lies in the dosing regimen. After taking the medicine, it has an antipruritic effect, which prevents the formation of tissue edema and improves well-being. The product is many times more effective than first generation products. No sedative effect.
The average cost is 35 rubles.
Loratadine
Advantages:
- Efficiency;
- Fast absorption;
- Low cost;
- Prevents the formation of edema.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Tsetrin
Cetrin helps relieve allergic reactions to various substances. It has a good antipruritic effect that lasts for 24 hours. Reduces vapor permeability of capillaries and relieves muscle spasm. With the correct course of treatment and compliance with the daily dose, no sedative effect is observed. After completion of treatment, effectiveness lasts up to 3 days.
The average cost is 150 rubles.
Tsetrin
Advantages:
- Effect for 24 hours;
- Good action;
- Alleviation of allergic reactions;
- A short course of treatment.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Fexadine
The product copes well with various diseases associated with burning inside the skin. The medication does not have a sedative effect, which allows it to be used by almost everyone. Blocking histamines begins one hour after taking the tablet, the full effect is achieved after 6 hours. Duration – 24 hours. Even with frequent use, the medicine does not cause any addiction.
The average price is 340 rubles.
Fexadine
Advantages:
- Suitable for children from 6 years old;
- Does not cause severe side effects;
- Quickly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract;
- No addiction;
- Efficiency.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Erius
Long-acting antihistamine. Prevents the development of an allergic reaction and also facilitates its occurrence. The peculiarity of this option is that it does not have a negative effect on the central nervous system. This makes it possible to use the medication for people working in areas where high concentration is required. Duration is 24 hours, while the effect of the substance begins 30 minutes after administration.
Sold at a price: from 540 rubles.
Erius
Advantages:
- Speed impact;
- Does not cause negative effects on the central nervous system;
- Convenient use;
- The effect lasts for 24 hours;
- Not addictive.
Flaws:
- High price.
Rating of the best external use products
Fenistil
The product is available in various forms, but mainly in liquid. Drops are recommended for use in young children. It is recommended to dilute them slightly before use. The product has an antihistamine effect that lasts for a long time. Not addictive. Suitable not only as a preventive measure, but also for complete treatment.
The average price is 370 rubles.
Fenistil
Advantages:
- Suitable for children from one year old;
- Low consumption;
- Long lasting effect;
- Easy to use;
- Available without a prescription.
Flaws:
- There are no significant ones.
Cynovit cream 40 ml No. 1 tube
A cosmetic product that has a positive effect on the skin and prevents burning and itching. Suitable for use by people who are allergic to insect bites, as well as those with psoriasis, burns and skin irritation.
Suitable for any skin type, making the product a universal solution. The composition contains effective components that instantly have an effect on the affected area. Apply a thin layer to problem areas. The course of treatment is short.
The average price is 260 rubles.
Cynovit cream 40 ml No. 1 tube
Advantages:
- Efficiency;
- The lung is used;
- Low consumption;
- Suitable for everyone.
Flaws:
- Not found.
SIBERINA anti-irritation cream
An expensive but effective solution that is suitable for alleviating the consequences of insect bites. The active components in the composition promote rapid healing of microtraumas and prevent the desire to scratch.
There are no synthetic or chemical elements; the substance consists only of extracts and juices of natural origin. Volume – 50 ml. Weight – 100 gr. Directions for use: Apply the cream in a thin layer. Before use, it is recommended to conduct a test sample, as individual intolerance is possible.
The average price is 460 rubles.
SIBERINA anti-irritation cream
Advantages:
- Natural composition;
- Quick impact;
- Does not have a negative impact;
- Prevents irritation.
Flaws:
- Individual intolerance to components.
FARMATEK Lipobase 75 ml
A good cream that provides medical skin care for dermatological diseases. Eliminates dryness and irritation. The protective function of the skin is fully restored. The cover becomes elastic and smooth, which is also an advantage. Recommended for use only by people who have problems with itching or flaking. As in the previous version, the composition is completely natural and harmless to the body.
The average cost is 360 rubles.
FARMATEK Lipobase 75 ml
Advantages:
- Low consumption;
- Long lasting effect;
- Suitable for any skin type;
- Fast healing process.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Sinaflan ointment d/nar. approx. 0.025% 15 g
An effective medication that is applied to the affected area of the skin. Suitable for people who have various dermatological diseases. It is not recommended for use by people with high sensitivity, skin tuberculosis and syphilis. The active ingredient is fluocinolone acetonide.
Suitable for use by children over two years of age and adults. Application should be carried out only in short courses on small areas of the cover. The duration should not exceed 5 days.
The average cost is 30 rubles.
Sinaflan ointment d/nar. approx. 0.025% 15 g
Advantages:
- Low price;
- Good impact;
- Prevents burning;
- Efficiency.
Flaws:
- Lots of side effects.
Uriage Pruriced Cream
A good cream that soothes the skin and prevents negative sensations, restoring comfort to a person. The product is completely hypoallergenic and suitable for everyone. There is a restorative effect. Despite the fact that the product is cosmetic, it is sold in a pharmacy.
The average cost is 710 rubles.
Uriage Pruriced Cream
Advantages:
- Good impact;
- Suitable for almost every person;
- Does not cause allergies;
- Sold in pharmacies;
- Low consumption;
- Easy to spread.
Flaws:
- High price.
Top 10 drugs for itching from the pharmacy
There are many anti-itch medications available at the pharmacy. But there is a list of popular products that are purchased most often.
Top medications include:
- Suprastin.
- Tavegil.
- Diazolin.
- Claritin.
- Zyrtec.
- Zodak.
- Erius.
- Allegra.
- Cetirizine.
- Cetrin.
Suprastin
The active ingredient is chloropyramine hydrochloride.
The following actions can be identified as contraindications:
- high probability of an allergic reaction;
- acute asthma;
- child's age up to 3 years;
- lactase deficiency;
- lactose intolerance;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period.
Tablets for itchy body skin have negative effects:
- increased fatigue with minimal physical activity;
- convulsions;
- visual impairment;
- increased intraocular pressure;
- discomfort in the abdominal cavity;
- feeling of dryness in the mouth;
- symptoms of poisoning;
- muscle weakness;
- problems with urination;
- allergy.
Dosing varies between children and adults.
Amount of medication:
- children 3 – 14 years old – 0.5 tablets 2 – 3 times a day;
- adults – tablet 3 – 4 times a day.
The cost of the medicine is 100 – 200 rubles.
Tavegil
The main component of the product is clemastine hydrofumarate.
Negative symptoms:
- fatigue with minimal physical activity;
- weakness;
- drowsiness;
- pain in the head;
- lack of coordination;
- lack of appetite;
- dry mouth;
- chest pressure;
- nasal congestion;
- low blood pressure;
- increased heart rate;
- vision problems;
- problems with urine output;
- anemia;
- skin rash.
Contraindications to the use of the drug:
- respiratory tract diseases;
- children under 6 years of age;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- increased likelihood of allergies.
The product should be used in case of urticaria, skin itching, eczema. Tavegil can also be used for insect bites and allergies that occur after taking medications.
The drug must be taken orally. Children 6 – 12 years old – half or a whole tablet 2 times a day (after waking up and before bedtime). Children over 12 years old and adults – 1 tablet in the morning and before bedtime. The cost of the medicine is from 160 to 270 rubles.
Diazolin
The tablets contain the active ingredient mebhydrolin.
Indications for the use of the drug for itchy skin throughout the body include:
- seasonal allergies;
- eczema;
- itching sensation;
- allergies after insect bites;
- bronchial asthma (complex treatment).
There is a release form in the form of tablets and dragees (50, 100 mg). The dosage is indicated in the table.
Age category | Amount of drug per day |
Up to 2 | 50 – 100 |
2 – 5 | 50 – 150 |
5 – 10 | 100 – 200 |
Over 10 | 100 – 200 |
Adults | 100 – 200 |
The following symptoms are identified as side effects:
- dry mouth;
- dyspepsia;
- dizziness;
- fatigue with minimal physical activity;
- drowsiness.
Diazolin is not recommended for use in the following cases:
- prostate hypertrophy;
- angle-closure glaucoma;
- YABZH;
- inflammatory process in the stomach;
- epilepsy;
- heart problems;
- pregnancy;
- lactation.
The cost of the drug is up to 100 rubles.
Claritin
The active ingredient is loratadine. Indications include allergic rhinitis, urticaria (including chronic forms), allergies.
Negative effects:
- pain in the head;
- sleep problems;
- fatigue;
- increased appetite (in adults);
- dizziness;
- dry mouth;
- problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
- impaired liver function;
- rash;
- tachycardia;
- increased heart rate.
The drug is not recommended for use in the following cases:
- child under 3 years old (for tablets);
- breast-feeding;
- inherited diseases - lactase deficiency;
- increased likelihood of allergies.
The dosage of the product is indicated in the table.
Age category | Required amount of drug |
Children 2 – 12 years old | Dosage depends on body weight:
|
Children over 12 years old and adults | Take 1 tablet per day |
Children and adults with severe liver dysfunction | The amount depends on body weight:
|
The cost of the drug varies from 190 to 500 rubles. In addition to the tablet form, there is a liquid product.
Zyrtec
Tablets for body skin itching have the main component - cetirizine dihydrochloride. The medication should be taken to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, as well as for fever and urticaria. Zyrtec helps cope with dermatosis, which is accompanied by itching and rash.
Contraindications for use:
- increased likelihood of allergies to components;
- kidney failure;
- pregnancy;
- breast-feeding;
- children under 6 years old;
- lactose intolerance.
Side effects include:
- allergic reaction;
- pain in the head;
- fatigue with minimal physical activity;
- drowsiness;
- dizziness;
- convulsions;
- change in taste;
- depression;
- dry mouth;
- nausea;
- diarrhea;
- pain in the abdominal area;
- rhinitis.
Dosage for children over 6 years of age and adults – 1 tablet per day. The cost of Zyrtec tablets is about 200 rubles. In addition to the tablet form, there is a liquid release form.
The active substance is cetirizine dihydrochloride. You should take the remedy for rhinitis of allergic origin and urticaria. For children under 6 years of age and adults – 1 tablet per day.
The medication is not recommended for use in the following cases:
- high likelihood of developing allergies;
- diseases of the renal system;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- children under 6 years old.
Negative effects:
- decreased platelet count;
- allergy;
- excited state;
- aggressiveness;
- depression;
- sleep problems;
- convulsions;
- change in taste;
- blurry vision;
- tachycardia;
- diarrhea;
- rash on the skin;
- hives;
- problems with urination;
- swelling;
- weight gain;
- itching after stopping use.
The cost of the drug is 150 – 250 rubles. In addition to tablets, Zodak is available in liquid form.
The main component is desloratadine. Erius is recommended to be taken for rhinitis of allergic origin and urticaria. Adults and children over 12 years old – 1 tablet per day.
The following can be identified as contraindications:
- increased likelihood of allergies;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- child's age up to 12 years.
Negative phenomena:
- hallucinations;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- sleep problems;
- dry mouth;
- discomfort in the abdominal cavity;
- diarrhea;
- tachycardia;
- muscle pain;
- fatigue with minimal physical activity.
The cost of the drug in tablets is about 560 rubles. Another product exists in the form of syrup.
Allegra
The active substance is fexofenadine hydrochloride. Allegra exists in tablet form of 120 and 180 mg. The product is recommended to be taken for rhinitis of allergic origin and urticaria.
Contraindications:
- increased likelihood of developing allergies;
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- child under 12 years old.
Side effects:
- headache;
- drowsiness or insomnia;
- dizziness;
- nausea;
- weakness;
- tachycardia;
- diarrhea;
- hives;
- itching;
- dyspnea.
The dosage of the drug is selected depending on the disease:
- seasonal allergies - 120 mg per 24 hours;
- chronic urticaria – 180 mg per 24 hours.
The cost of the drug is 380 – 480 rubles.
Cetirizine
The main component is cetirizine. The product must be taken for fever, allergies, and urticaria. Children from 2 to 6 years old are recommended to take 0.5 tablets per day. Children over 12 years of age and adults – 1 tablet per day. If the patient has impaired renal function, the dosage should be reduced by 2 times.
Side effects include:
- pain in the head;
- dry mouth;
- drowsiness;
- weakness with minimal physical activity;
- allergies;
- excited state (rare).
It is forbidden to take Cetirizine if there is a high risk of allergies, pregnancy, or during lactation. Contraindications include impaired functionality of the renal system.
The cost of the medicine is from 40 to 150 rubles.
Tsetrin
Cetirizine hydrochloride is the main component of the product. The drug is recommended for use for allergies, urticaria, and dermatosis. Dosage for adults and children over 6 years of age – 1 tablet per 24 hours. If the patient has impaired renal function, it is recommended to take 0.5 tablets per day. And in case of severe organ failure - 0.5 tablets every other day.
Cetrin is well tolerated; side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and abdominal pain. It is prohibited to take the drug during lactation, pregnancy or hypersensitivity to the components. Use is not recommended if the child is under 6 years of age.
Itching is a common symptom that can appear due to various causes of a malfunction in the body, diseases, or temporary external influences on the human body. In the initial stages, the painful symptom can be treated with effective medications in tablet or cream form.
If you experience itchy skin all over your body, it is recommended to consult an allergist or therapist. Thanks to early diagnosis and timely therapy, the disease can be cured with the least effort.
Article design: Mila Friedan
Anyone who experiences skin irritation should have an ointment for itchy skin on hand. Medicines that treat discomfort caused by a specific cause will help get rid of itching.
Fenistil
Fenistil has an antipruritic effect on the skin and includes an H1 receptor blocker. The drug reduces high capillary permeability, which is associated with allergies. Has a cooling effect that lasts 4 hours after application.
Fenistil is available in the form of a gel and consists of:
- dimethindene maleate;
- carbamide;
- sodium hydroxide;
- propylene glycol.
Indications for use:
- itchy dermatosis;
- eczema;
- hives;
- insect bites.
Contraindications:
- hyperplasia;
- age up to 1 month;
- high sensitivity to components;
- glaucoma.
The product should be applied to diseased areas of the skin 2-4 times a day. The drug is available in pharmacies without a prescription and costs from 380-600 rubles.
Protopik
Ointments for itching on the skin in adults, belonging to the hormonal group, such as Protopic, have anti-inflammatory properties. The ointment inhibits the activity of calcineurin and lymphocytes, which are responsible for inflammation. Protopic is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted from the body after 75 hours.