Calcipotriene Topical – Information, Use and Side Effects

Drug Trade Name: Calcitrene, Sorilux, Dovonex

Category: Topical Antipsoriatics

Generic Name: calcipotriene topical

Introduction and Quick Information:

Calcipotriene is a man-made form of vitamin D. It is involved in the development & growth of skin cells.  It belongs to a class of drugs known as Synthetic Vitamin D3 derivatives.

Calcipotriene is used on scalp & skin to treat Psoriasis. It acts by altering how the skin cells are formed in the affected areas by psoriasis.It should be used on affected areas of skin. Do not use it on windburned, sunburned, dry, irritated or chapped skin or an open wound.

Is it Approved By U.S. FDA?

This is an U.S. FDA (food & drug administration) approved medicine that is used to cure psoriasis.

Usage and Benefits of Calcipotriene Topical:

• This medicine is used to cure Psoriasis (it is a skin disease in which scaly, red patches are formed due to excessive synthesis of skin cells on some parts of the body)
• It is involved in the development & growth of skin cells.

Calcipotriene Topical Side Effects:

There are lots of medicines that can kick up side effects. In some cases, adverse effects were discovered during U.S. FDA tests & were deemed as acceptable risks. In others, the unpleasant effect were not known until after the medicine was extensively used. When adverse effects of a medicine are severe, the dosages may be changed or alternative medicines might be prescribed. Dietary or lifestyle changes may also help in decreasing side effects.

Frequent Calcipotriene Topical Side Effects:

Although these frequent effects are very common yet you should discuss with a doctor about all possible unwanted effects that might be associated with its use. The side-effects include:

• Dry skin
• Peeling of skin
  

Infrequent Calcipotriene Topical Side Effects:

If you observe any of the following severe side effects, stop using this medicine and seek medical attention right away

• Hives or any other allergic reaction
  
• Rash
• Swelling of the lips, mouth, face, or tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Itching
• Tightness in the chest
• Skin irritation
• Burning
• Itching

General Recommended Dosages of Calcipotriene Topical:

Calcipotriene topical is generally applied once or twice a day. Do not use this medicine more than what is recommended by your medical healthcare professional. Never apply more than hundred (100) grams per week. You should not halt using this medicine if you do not observe results within a few days because it may take around two weeks to see the effects of this medicine.

How to use it?

• Apply Calcipotriene topical as directed by your medical healthcare provider. If you are doubtful how to use it, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain them to use.
• Sanitize your hands properly before applying it to the affected area.
• Avoid applying it close to your mucous membranes, eyes, open sores, face, mouth, or irritated skin. If you get Calcipotriene topical on any of these areas, wash it off with water.

In case I Miss the Dose?

As we know nowadays life is very fast, people are busy with their work & barely get time out of their hectic schedule. So, it is very common to miss the dose of a medicine. Well, if it has slipped from your mind to take medicine on time, you must take it as soon as you remember. If you forgot to have your first scheduled dose & it is a time to take next scheduled dose, in this situation you should take only the second dose of medicine instead of having a double dose. You must contact your medical healthcare provider if you are a little bit skeptic about the missed dose.

In case I Take Overdose?

In case you have  swallowed this medicine, you must call your PCC (poison control board) or emergency room right away.

Drug Interactions of Calcipotriene Topical:

We people are well aware of drug interactions & unpleasant effects caused by these interactions. You should inform your doctor about all medicines, especially topical drugs because they are more likely to interact with Calcipotriene Topical. Notify your medical healthcare provider about any over the counter or prescription medicines that are being used before you commence using this medicine.

Shun using abrasive, harsh, cosmetics, irritating cleansers or perfumes on the area where this medicine is being used.

Luckily, drug interaction occurs in only small proportion of people who take the interacting combinations

Lifestyle and Food Habits You Must Follow When on Calcipotriene Topical:

You should avoid washing the area more than three times a day that is being treated by this drug because excessive washing makes your skin very dry & irritated. At the same time do not use abrasive, harsh, cosmetics, irritating cleansers or perfumes on the area where this medicine is applied.

You should avoid using topical medicines because it may interfere with Calcipotriene.

How safe is Calcipotriene Topical for Pregnant Women or Nursing Mothers?

Calcipotriene topical is in the U.S. FDA pregnancy category C. In fact, no adequate studies have been conducted in pregnant women. It is still unclear, whether this medicine can affect reproduction capacity or can cause fetus harm when applied to the affected area during pregnancy. You must inform your doctor before using it, if you are pregnant or planning to conceive.

It is not clear whether this drug is passed into human breast milk. Cautions should be taken when this medicine is given to nursing women.

Complications and Conditions Possible Due to Prolonged Use of Calcipotriene Topical:

There is an extensive list of medicines that are consumed whole life. Our brain becomes completely reliant on it. Problems begin when the amount of this drug is altered (decreased or increased). Brain is confused by the signal being sent to it and this confusion shows signs of withdrawal. So, use the drug as directed by your physician or mentioned on the label.

Availability of Calcipotriene Topical:

This drug is available only with your medical healthcare professional’s prescription. This medicine is available in certain dosages forms like Foam, Ointment, Cream and Solution. It is an U.S. FDA approved drug. You can buy it at any medical store; medical centers or government recognized hospitals. You may also know about its availability by asking your doctor.