Topical tacrolimus and pimecrolimus in the treatment of oral lichen planus: an update.

BACKGROUND

The search for new drugs capable of controlling the symptoms and signs of oral lichen planus (OLP) with minimal side-effects remains an important challenge.

OBJECTIVE

A literature review is made to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of topical tacrolimus and pimecrolimus in the treatment of OLP.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: A review was made of the studies published between 1999 and 2008 in relation to the topical application of tacrolimus and pimecrolimus in OLP.

RESULTS

The data obtained point to the need for larger randomized, placebo-controlled studies with carefully selected and standardized endpoints, to allow adequate comparison between treatments. The adverse effects were fundamentally of a local nature, and in particular included burning sensation in the application zone. All the studies consulted found the treatment to be effective over short periods of time, with lesion recurrences after suppression of the drug. The long-term safety remains to be established.

CONCLUSION

There is need for larger placebo-controlled, randomized studies with carefully selected and standardized outcome measures.