Brand name Dovonex
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Calcipotriol is used in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis as well as in plaque psoriasis affecting up to 40 per cent of the patient’s skin area.
Calcipotriol is a derivative of vitamin D. It is thought to work by reducing production of the skin cells that cause the symptoms of skin thickening and scaling, which are the most common symptoms of psoriasis. Because this drug is
related to vitamin D, excessive widespread use can lead to a rise in calcium levels in the body; otherwise calcipotriol is unlikely to cause any serious adverse effects.
The drug is applied to the affected areas in the form of cream, ointment, or scalp solution. It should not be used on the face, and it is important that the hands are washed following application of this ointment to avoid accidental
transfer to unaffected areas. Local irritation may occur during the early stages of treatment.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Cream, ointment, scalp solution.
Frequency and timing of doses
2 x daily.
Adult dosage range
Applied twice daily; maximum 100g each week. Scalp solution, maximum 60ml each week.
Onset of effect
Improvement is seen within a few days.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Store at room temperature out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Apply the next dose at the scheduled time. Stopping the drug
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
Excessive prolonged use may lead to an increase in blood calcium levels, which can cause nausea, constipation, thirst, and frequent urination. Notify your doctor.
Duration of action
One application lasts up to 12 hours. Beneficial effects are longer lasting.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
A temporary local irritation may occur when treatment is started. The other effects are usually due to heavy or prolonged use, leading to high calcium levels in the
blood.
INTERACTIONS
None known.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Drug for psoriasis
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have a metabolic disorder.
You have previously had a hypersensitivity reaction to the drug.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
No evidence of risk, but discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
No evidence of risk, but discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not recommended.
Over 60
No problems expected.
Driving and hazardous work
No problems expected.
Alcohol
No problems expected.
PROLONGED USE
The drug is not normally used for longer than 6 weeks.
Monitoring Regular checks on calcium levels in the blood are required during prolonged or heavy use.
