Calcipotriol

What is Calcipotriol?

Fig.1-Chemical composition of Calcipotriol

• Calcipotriol is a vitamin D derivative drug that slows the production of excessive skin cells.

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What are the uses of this medicine?

Fig.2-Psoriasis on elbow

• Calcipotriol is used to treat psoriasis which is a skin disease that causes the formation of red, scaly patches due to increase production of skin cells.

How does this medicine work?

• Calcipotriol binds to the vitamin D receptor found in T-cells, which play a role in psoriasis.
• The binding controls the amount of T-cells that are differentiated and proliferated.

Who Should Not Use this medicine?

• Pregnant women
• Children

• Inform your doctors if you have any other health conditions before taking this medication.

Is this medicine FDA approved?

• This medication is FDA approved.

How should this medicine be used?

• Calcipotriol comes in 4 forms: ointment, foam, cream and liquid solution.
• It is applied twice a dice around the same time.
• The directions for cream, ointment, foam, and solution differ, so carefully read the back of the medication prior to usage and follow the instructions carefully.
• Follow your doctor's prescription and do not use more or less.
• Always wash your hands before applying the medication.

What are the  dosage forms and brand names of this medicine?

• Dosage may vary depending on form of medication, brand, and your condition.
• Follow the dosage information provided on the medication or ask your doctor for personalized instructions.

Brand names:

• Dovonex®
• Sorilux®
• Calcitrene
• Daivobet®
• Enstilar®

What side effects can this medication cause?

Common side effects of Calcipotriol:

• itching
• redness
• worsening of psoriasis
• burning
• stinging or tingling of skin
• dry skin

Serious side effects. Call your doctor if you experience:

• rash
• irritation of the treated or nearby area of skin

• Call your doctor if any of the side effects mentioned persists.
• This drug may also cause other side effects not listed above.
• Reach out to your doctor if you experience any other side effects while taking this medication.

What special precautions should I follow?

• Before taking this medication, inform your doctor of all the medication you are currently on and all other medical conditions you have.
• Calcipotriol causes light sensitivity, so avoid prolonged exposure to sun. Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses as a precaution before going outside.
• Calcipotriol is flammable so do not use near heat or open flame.
• Do not use on face.

Do not use cosmetics or skincare products on the treated area without informing your doctor.

What to do in case of emergency/overdose?

• In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline of your country. In the United States, call 1-800-222-1222.

• Overdose related information is also available online at poisonhelp.org/help.
• In the event that the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services. In the United States, call 911.

Can this medicine be used in pregnancy?

• The safety and efficacy of Calcipotriol during pregnancy has not been established. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can this medicine be used in children?

• The safety and efficacy of Calcipotriol in children has not been established.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Store this medication in the container that come in with the lid tightly closed at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (avoid storing in bathroom).
• Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.

• Dailymed label info on Calcipotriol
• FDA Calcipotriol