How does it work?

Calcipotriol is a medicine that is a derivative of vitamin D. When applied to the skin it works by reducing the production of skin cells. In psoriasis, the scaling and thickening of the skin and the appearance of raised plaques, are the result of excessive skin cell production in this disease. Calcipotriol reduces the excessive skin cell production and therefore helps improve the symptoms of psoriasis. Calcipotriol is available as an ointment or cream for psoriasis plaques on the body, and as a scalp solution for easier application to psoriasis on the scalp.

What is it used for?

Plaque psoriasis

Warning!

Wash your hands after applying this medicine to avoid inadvertently transfering it to other areas.

Do not apply this medicine to the face.

This preparation is for external use only.

The maximum recommended dose of this medicine varies according to the age of the patient, and is stated in the information leaflet supplied with the medicine. Do not exceed these recommended doses. Excessive widespread use can lead to a rise in the calcium levels in the body.

Dovonex scalp solution is not recommended for use in children, as there is no experience of its use in this age group. Similarly, Dovonex cream and ointment are not recommended for children under six years of age, as there is limited experience in this age group and a maximum dose has not been established.

Not to be used in

Disorders of calcium metabolism in the body

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available regarding the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Itching (pruritus)

Abnormal reaction of the skin to light, usually a rash (photosensitivity)

Flushing of the skin due to widening of the small blood vessels (erythema)

Worsening of the skin condition psoriasis

Inflammation of the skin (dermatitis)

Irritation in area of use

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

The manufacturer of this medicine has not studied its use with other medicines applied to the same area of skin, but no adverse interactions have been reported.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved