Uses
Calcipotriene topical is used to treat psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form due to increased production of skin cells on some areas of the body). Calcipotriene is in a class of medications called synthetic vitamin D3 derivatives. It works by slowing the excessive production of skin cells.
Side Effects Of Calcipotriene Topical
Calcipotriene topical may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- irritation of the treated or nearby area of skin
Calcipotriene topical may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication or if your symptoms get worse.
Warnings & Precautions
Before using calcipotriene topical:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to calcipotriene topical, or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any medical conditions.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking calcipotriene topical, call your doctor.
- plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to wear protective clothing (such as a hat), sunglasses, and sunscreen. Calcipotriene may make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
Calcipotriene Topical Dosage
Calcipotriene comes as a cream to apply to the skin and as a solution (liquid) to apply to the scalp. The cream and solution are usually applied two times a day. Use calcipotriene topical at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use calcipotriene topical exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Calcipotriene controls psoriasis but does not cure it. You may see some improvement in your condition after 2 weeks, but it may take up to 8 weeks before you feel the full benefit of calcipotriene topical.
Do not apply calcipotriene topical cream to the face.
Calcipotriene solution may catch fire. Do not use this medication near heat or an open flame, such as a cigarette.
To use the calcipotriene topical cream, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the area to be treated. Be careful not to get the cream on your face, especially in or near your eyes.
- Rub the cream into the skin until it disappears.
- Wash your hands.
- To use the solution, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Comb hair to remove any unattached psoriasis scales.
- Make a part of your hair near the affected areas.
- Apply a small amount of the solution to the lesions. Be careful not to get the solution on your forehead or other areas of your face, especially in or near your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Rub the solution into the lesion gently.
- Wash your hands.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body’s response to calcipotriene topical.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
