Calcipotriol for psoriasis

Examples

Ointment, cream, and solution

Generic Name	Brand Name
calcipotriol, also known as calcipotriene	Dovonex
calcipotriol with betamethasone	Dovobet

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 is a form of vitamin D, 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

If you use calcipotriol as your doctor tells you to, it is not likely to cause any side effects except for some skin irritation, such as itchy, red, or tender skin. But if you spread the ointment over too much of your body, a large amount of ointment may be absorbed and can cause serious side effects, including high levels of calcium in the blood and kidney stones.

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 type of vitamin D found in over-the-counter products. These products 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:	Douglas Dana Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: February 15, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.