Uses
What is topical calcipotriene used for?
Topical calcipotriene is commonly used to treat plaque psoriasis of the scalp and body.
Topical calcipotriene may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does topical calcipotriene work (mechanism of action)?
Topical calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. In psoriasis, there is an overgrowth of skin cells that build up into bumpy patches. Topical calcipotriene slows down the growth of skin cells helping to prevent this build up.
How is topical calcipotriene supplied (dosage forms)?
Topical calcipotriene is available as Calcitrene, Dovonex, Sorilux, Trionexin, and generic Topical calcipotriene in the following dosage forms that are applied to the scalp and skin.
- 0.005% topical cream
- 0.005% topical foam
- 0.005% topical ointment
- 0.005% topical scalp solution
How should I store topical calcipotriene?
Topical Cream and Ointment. Calcipotriene topical cream and ointment should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C), for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place, in a tightly closed container. Do not freeze.
Topical Foam. Calcipotriene topical foam should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Do not store at temperatures above 120 F (49 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze or refrigerate. The contents of the can are flammable. Keep away from open flames. Do not puncture the can or expose it to heat.
Topical Solution. Calcipotriene topical solution should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C), for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place, in a tightly closed container. Do not freeze. The contents are flammable. Keep away from open flames.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of topical calcipotriene?
The most common side effects of topical calcipotriene are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Skin irritation such as redness, pain, burning or stinging, rash, and itching at the application site and surrounding skin
- Dry, peeling skin
- Worsening of psoriasis
There may be other side effects of topical calcipotriene that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of topical calcipotriene?
While less common, the most serious side effects of topical calcipotriene are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia). Topical calcipotriene may cause an increase in calcium levels. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of high calcium levels.
- Peeing frequently
- Increased thirst
- Weakness
- Bone pain
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Muscle aches, cramps, or twitches
- Depression, crankiness, or forgetfulness
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not use Topical calcipotriene?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical calcipotriene products.
- Calcipotriene
- Calcitrene
- Dovonex
- Sorilux
- Trionex
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical calcipotriene products they stock.
High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia). Topical calcipotriene may increase calcium levels. Do not use topical calcipotriene if you have hypercalcemia.
High Vitamin D Levels. Topical calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. Do not use topical calcipotriene if you have high vitamin D levels.
What should I know about topical calcipotriene before using it?
Do not use topical calcipotriene unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.
Do not share topical calcipotriene with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Keep topical calcipotriene out of the reach of children.
Topical calcipotriene is for use on the skin only. Wash your hands each time before and after you use topical calcipotriene. Avoid using it around your eyes or on the face. If it accidentally comes into contact with your face or your eyes or the area around your eyes, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
Avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (including tanning booths and sun lamps).
Children and people above the age of 65 years can be at a greater risk for some side effects of topical calcipotriene. Talk to your healthcare provider about your risks if you are in one of these age groups.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using topical calcipotriene?
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if topical calcipotriene is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical calcipotriene could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical calcipotriene while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical calcipotriene passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical calcipotriene while breastfeeding.
Interactions
Does topical calcipotriene interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between topical calcipotriene and foods or drinks.
It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical calcipotriene.
Does topical calcipotriene interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
Topical calcipotriene may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using, especially calcium or vitamin D.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical calcipotriene?
If you or someone else has used too much topical calcipotriene, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of topical calcipotriene?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
Are you currently using Calcipotriene topical?
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