The use of cyclosporine in dermatology: Part I

Cyclosporine is a calcineurin inhibitor that acts selectively on T cells. It has been used in dermatology since 1997 for its US Food and Drug Administration indication of psoriasis and off-label for various other inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis, blistering disorders, and connective tissue diseases. In the last decade, many dermatologists have hesitated to use this important drug in their clinical practices because of its toxicity profile. The purpose of this article is to review the mechanism of action of cyclosporine and its current uses and dosing schedules. It is our goal to create a framework in which dermatologists feel comfortable and safe incorporating cyclosporine into their prescribing regimens.