Tacrolimus ointment at 0.03% and 0.1% is more effective than vehicle for treatment of AD in adults and children in the short-term.
Tacrolimus was also more effective than mild to moderately potent topical steroids. It was marginally more effective than high-potency topical steroids, though this superiority was less evident when variables were changed in sensitivity analysis.
Additional data to allow inclusion of all studies found would permit more definitive conclusions to be drawn. Primary research is required to assess the long-term effectiveness of tacrolimus, especially with high-potency steroids.