Pimecrolimus, also known as Picrolimus, is a macrolactam ascomycin derivative that acts as an immune suppressant. It binds with high affinity to macrophilin-12 (FKBP-12) and inhibits calcineurin, a calcium-dependent phosphatase. Pimecrolimus inhibits production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by T cells and mast cells and prevents the release of inflammatory cytokines and mediators from mast cells. It has been used clinically as a treatment for eczema.
Pimecrolimus is known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties and its low systemic immunosuppressive potential.