Why is this medication prescribed?

Calcipotriene topical is prescribed for the treatment of plaque psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that causes patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. It is a synthetic form of vitamin D3 that works by slowing down the excessive production of skin cells associated with psoriasis.

How should this medicine be used?

Calcipotriene topical (cream or ointment) is a medication used primarily for the treatment of psoriasis. Here’s how it should generally be used:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always use calcipotriene topical exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency can vary based on the severity of your condition.
• Clean and Dry Skin: Before applying the cream or ointment, wash the affected area with mild soap and water, and gently pat it dry with a towel.
• Apply a Thin Layer: Use a small amount of calcipotriene topical and apply it thinly and evenly to the affected areas of the skin. Rub it in gently and completely.
• Avoid Eyes and Mucous Membranes: Be careful to avoid getting the medication in your eyes, mouth, or on mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Frequency of Use: Typically, calcipotriene is applied once or twice daily. Your doctor will specify the appropriate frequency and duration of treatment.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Pay attention to any potential side effects such as irritation, redness, or burning sensation at the application site. If these occur, contact your doctor.
• Additional Advice:
  • Sun Exposure: Limit or avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight during treatment, as calcipotriene can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
  • Moisturizers: You can use moisturizers or emollients if your doctor recommends them, but apply them separately from calcipotriene and wait until the medication is absorbed.
• Follow-Up: Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust treatment if necessary.

It’s crucial to use calcipotriene topical consistently and as directed to achieve the best results in managing psoriasis. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, always consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Calcipotriene topical is primarily used for the treatment of plaque psoriasis, as it helps to reduce the excessive growth of skin cells characteristic of this condition. However, it may also have off-label uses or alternative dermatological applications, which would be prescribed by a healthcare provider based on individual circumstances and needs. Off-label uses might include conditions where regulating skin cell growth could be beneficial, though these would be determined on a case-by-case basis.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using calcipotriene topical, there are several special precautions to keep in mind:

• Avoiding sensitive areas: Take care to avoid getting calcipotriene into your eyes, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Sun exposure: Calcipotriene can increase sensitivity to UV light. Avoid excessive exposure to natural sunlight and avoid the use of tanning beds or sunlamps. If exposure cannot be avoided, use sunscreen or protective clothing over treated areas.
• Moisturizing: To prevent excessive dryness or irritation, moisturize the skin regularly, but avoid applying moisturizers immediately before or after applying calcipotriene unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using calcipotriene. It is important to weigh the potential benefits against any possible risks to the fetus or infant.
• Children: Calcipotriene should be used with caution in children and adolescents, as safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been fully established. Use under the guidance of a healthcare provider experienced in treating pediatric patients with psoriasis.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may schedule periodic follow-up visits to monitor your progress and assess any side effects or complications.
• Interaction with other medications: Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as some medications may interact with calcipotriene.
• Allergic reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing), seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when using calcipotriene topical to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about its use, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Calcimar. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is generally recommended for bone health. Your healthcare provider may advise you on dietary modifications based on your overall health and the specific condition being treated.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to apply calcipotriene topical at the scheduled time, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra cream or ointment to make up for a missed dose unless instructed to do so by your doctor.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Calcipotriene topical is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Skin irritation: This can include redness, itching, burning sensation, or stinging at the site of application. These effects are usually mild and may improve as your skin adjusts to the medication.
• Dry skin: Calcipotriene can sometimes cause or worsen dryness of the skin.
• Peeling or scaling of the skin: This may occur, especially at the beginning of treatment.
• Worsening of psoriasis: In some cases, calcipotriene may initially cause an increase in redness, scaling, or irritation before improving the condition. If this becomes severe or persists, consult your doctor.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash, hives, swelling, or severe itching may occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Changes in calcium levels: Prolonged use of calcipotriene over large areas of the body may lead to elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). This is rare but can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, increased thirst, increased urination, and muscle weakness. Your doctor will monitor for this with periodic blood tests.
• Skin infections: There is a slight risk of developing skin infections, though this is more likely in untreated areas of psoriasis or in areas where the skin is broken.
• Local reactions: Some people may experience allergic contact dermatitis or other local reactions at the site of application.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment regimen if needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store calcipotriene topical at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired calcipotriene topical according to local regulations or as instructed by your pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency: In case of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing), seek immediate medical attention.
• Overdose: Overdosing on topical calcipotriene is unlikely, but if large amounts are accidentally ingested or excessive amounts are applied over a large area of skin, it could lead to elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, increased thirst, increased urination, and muscle weakness. If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes: Take care to avoid getting calcipotriene into your eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Sun exposure: Calcipotriene can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit exposure to natural or artificial sunlight during treatment. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing over treated areas.
• Regular follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments as recommended by your doctor to monitor your progress and any potential side effects.
• Missed doses: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply extra cream or ointment to make up for a missed dose unless instructed by your doctor.
• Avoid use on broken or infected skin: Do not apply calcipotriene topical to areas of the skin that are broken, infected, or have cuts or scrapes.
• Inform healthcare providers: Inform all healthcare providers (doctors, dentists, pharmacists, etc.) that you are using calcipotriene topical before starting any new medications or treatments.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss the use of calcipotriene topical with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of this medication during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully established.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of calcipotriene topical. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, storage, disposal, or what to do in case of emergencies, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information.