Calcipotriol |
Brand Names: Dovonex Cream Dovonex Ointment Dovonex Scalp Lotion Dovobet ointment (combination product with betamethasone dipropionate)Prescription Needed: YesWhat is this drug used for?Calcipotriol is a synthetic form of Vitamin D that is used alone or in combination with other drugs in the treatment of psoriasis. It works by slowing down the growth of skin cells which helps reduce the skin thickening and scaling that is associated with this condition. Is there any reason why I shouldn't take this drug? Do not take this medication if you are allergic to it or similar drugs. Always disclose your full medical history with the medical team that is taking care of you in order for them to provide you with the safest and most effective care. Tell your doctor specifically if you have or have ever had:
What about possible side effects? This medication is usually well tolerated but you should be aware of some potential side effects. The following list of more common side effects can be quite bothersome but unless they are severe you should continue taking as prescribed. Most side effects are will occur at the area of application. The larger the area of application the higher the chances that some of the medication could be absorbed into the body to cause whole body effects (e.g. rise in amount of calcium in the body).
Less common side effects include:
Rare but potentially serious side effects include:
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice. What if I am taking other drugs? Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with and/or may change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. In the case of calcipotriol there are no specific drug interactions to watch for. You should not apply other medicated creams or ointments to the same area unless directed by your doctor even over the counter products. If you are unsure you should have your doctor or pharmacist review your list of prescriptions. Other Information: Calcipotriol is not generally recommended for severe psoriasis that covers very large areas of the body. Your doctor may ask you to go for lab tests to ensure there is no increase in calcium levels in your blood or urine as this could put you at a higher risk for kidney stones. Unless directed by your doctor you should not cover the affected area with tight non-breathable dressings or clothing as this may increase the chances of irritation or absorption into the body. Not for use on face armpit area groin area and keep away from eyes. Always wash hands after applying to prevent accidental rubbing onto the face or into the eyes. Your doctor may suggest that you stay out of direct sunlight as taking calcipotriol may cause your skin to be more sensitive than normal. If you must go out follow the same steps you would take to protect yourself from the sun at any other time:
Children: Not for use in children 2 years old or younger. The scalp solution has not been studied for use in children. Seniors: Safely used at normal doses. Pregnant women: Safety not established. Studies in animals indicate that this drug can cause birth defects. Talk to your doctor. Women who are nursing: It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. It is not known if there is an effect on the infant. Talk to your doctor. People who drive or operate machinery: No known problems. Overdose: If you experience any unusual reactions or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage call your doctor or 911. Stopping the drug: Symptoms may return. If you miss a dose: Just apply the next dose when you are supposed to. If you are unsure of what to do talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Storage conditions: closed container at room temperature away from moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not refrigerate. Dietary precautions: None |