Calcipotriene for psoriasis

Examples

Ointment, cream, and solution

Generic Name	Brand Name
calcipotriol, also known as calcipotriene	Dovonex

Calcipotriol, available by prescription, may be used 2 times a day for 6 to 8 weeks or longer. It may also be used in combination with ultraviolet B (UVB) light.

How It Works

Calcipotriol, which contains vitamin D3, controls the rapid growth of skin cells.

Why It Is Used

Calcipotriol is used to treat mild to severe plaque forms of psoriasis. It is used on the scalp and skin.

How Well It Works

Calcipotriol, also known as calcipotriene, is considered an effective treatment for psoriasis.¹

These products are usually as effective as corticosteroid creams and ointments.¹

Calcipotriol may delay relapse (flare-ups).¹

Side Effects

Vitamin D preparations applied to the skin do not cause problems when used according to instructions. If the ointment is spread over too much of the body, a large amount of ointment will be absorbed and can cause serious side effects, including:

• Skin irritation. Skin may be itchy, red, or tender.
• High levels of calcium in the blood.
• Stones in the urinary tract.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Calcipotriol is not the same vitamin D found in commercial supplements. Commercial supplements will not help your psoriasis.

Diets that include large amounts of vitamin D are not effective in treating psoriasis.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Richard P. Terra	Last Updated: February 20, 2006
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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