drugs that act by inhibiting the calcium-dependent protein *phosphatase calcineurin, an enzyme that initiates a sequence of events that bring about activation of T *lymphocytes. The group includes *ciclosporin and *tacrolimus, which are major maintenance immunosuppressants used in transplantation. Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g. tacrolimus, pimecrolimus [Elidel]) are used in the treatment of eczema when topical steroids have failed or are contraindicated. Stinging is a common transient side-effect, and reactivation of infections may occur.... calcineurin inhibitors
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