What is calcipotriene topical?
Calcipotriene is a synthetic topical form of vitamin D. It is involved in the growth and
development of skin cells.
Calcipotriene topical is used to treat plaque psoriasis (psoriasis with scaly patches).
Calcipotriene topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking calcipotriene topical?
Do not use calcipotriene topical on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped,
or irritated. It could make these conditions much worse.
Calcipotriene topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not
known whether calcipotriene topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use calcipotriene topical
without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is also not known if calcipotriene topical passes into breast milk. Do not use
calcipotriene topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take calcipotriene topical?
Apply calcipotriene topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand
these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Wash your hands before and after applying this medication, unless you are using it to treat
a hand condition.
Clean and dry the area of skin where you will apply calcipotriene topical. Apply the
medication only to the affected area.
Do not apply calcipotriene topical to eyes, mouth, face, mucous membranes, open
sores, or irritated skin. If you get medication on any of these areas, rinse it off with water.
Calcipotriene topical is usually applied once or twice a day.
Do not apply more calcipotriene topical than is prescribed by your doctor. Never apply
more than 100 grams in a week.
It may take 2 weeks to see the effects of this drug. Do not stop using calcipotriene
topical if you do not see results immediately.
Store calcipotriene topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of calcipotriene topical?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only your next regularly scheduled dose.
Where can I get more information about calcipotriene topical?
Your pharmacist has information about calcipotriene topical written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of calcipotriene topical?
Serious side effects are very rare. Stop using calcipotriene topical and seek
emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing
of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
You may experience some irritation of the skin, such as burning, itching, redness,
swelling, dryness, or peeling while you are using calcipotriene topical. These side effects
sometimes lessen with continued treatment. Notify your doctor if you experience these side
effects.
If you notice a change in your skin color, contact your doctor.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any
side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about calcipotriene topical?
Use calcipotriene topical only on affected patches of the skin. Do not use
calcipotriene topical on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin or on an open
wound.
Avoid abrasive, harsh, or drying soaps and cleansers while using calcipotriene topical.
Do not use more than 100 grams of calcipotriene in a week.
What should I avoid while taking calcipotriene topical?
Avoid using other topical products at the same time as calcipotriene topical unless they
are prescribed by your doctor. Some topical medicines may interfere with the effects or
absorption of calcipotriene topical.
Avoid washing the area you are treating more than three times a day. Too much washing
may cause your skin to become very dry or irritated.
Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics on the area
you are treating.
What other drugs will affect calcipotriene topical?
Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics on the area
you are treating.
Other medicines, especially other topical medicines, may interact with calcipotriene
topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter
medicines.
What happens if I have an overdose of calcipotriene topical?