Calcipotriene for psoriasis
Content provided by Healthwise
Examples
Ointment, cream, and solution
| Brand Name | Chemical Name |
| Dovonex | calcipotriene, also known as calcipotriol |
Calcipotriene, 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
Calcipotriene, which contains vitamin D3, controls the rapid growth of skin cells.
Why It Is Used
Calcipotriene is used to treat mild to severe plaque forms of psoriasis. It is used on the scalp and skin.
How Well It Works
Calcipotriene, also known as calcipotriol, 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
Calcipotriene 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.
References
Citations
Naldi L, Rzany B (2004). Chronic plaque psoriasis. Clinical Evidence (12): 1–5.
Credits
| Author | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH |
| Author | Ralph Poore |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology |
| Last Updated | January 6, 2006 |
| Last updated: | January 06, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Ralph Poore |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Michele Cronen |
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