Calcipotriene Topical

In the U.S.

• Calcitrene
• Dovonex
• Sorilux

Available Dosage Forms:

• Cream
• Foam
• Ointment
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antipsoriatic

Pharmacologic Class: Vitamin D3, Synthetic

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure calcipotriene is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for any unwanted effects.

Stop using calcipotriene and check with your doctor right away if you have a skin rash, burning, stinging, redness, swelling, or irritation on the skin.

If your psoriasis does not improve within a few weeks or becomes worse, check with your doctor.

Calcipotriene may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing, including a hat, when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated areas unless directed to do so by your doctor.

You should not use calcipotriene topical if you have high levels of calcium or vitamin D in your body. Do not apply this medicine to your face.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using calcipotriene topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, skin rash, or other irritation after applying the medicine;

• worsening of your skin condition; or

• high calcium--nausea, vomiting, constipation, increased thirst or urination, muscle pain or weakness, bone pain, confusion, and feeling tired or restless.

Common side effects may include:

• mild skin irritation;

• skin rash; or

• itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:

• mineral supplements that contain calcium; or

• vitamin D or multivitamins.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with calcipotriene topical, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

This medication is used to treat psoriasis. Calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. It works by slowing down the growth of skin cells.

How to use Calcipotriene Cream

Use this medication on the skin only. Apply a thin layer of the medication as directed by your doctor to the affected area and gently rub in, usually once or twice daily for the ointment or twice daily for the cream or the foam. Wash your hands after using, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Do not apply the medication on the face, in the eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

Do not apply more often or use longer than prescribed. This may increase the risk of side effects.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. You should usually begin to see an improvement in your skin condition after 2 weeks of treatment.

Burning, itching, rash, irritation, redness, dry skin, or peeling at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: skin thinning/discoloration, stretch marks, "hair bumps" (folliculitis), unusual tiredness, mental/mood changes, unexplained constipation.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.