Dovonex

Generic Name: calcipotriene topical (cal sih poh TRY een)
Brand Names: Dovonex

What is Dovonex?

Dovonex (calcipotriene) is a synthetic topical form of vitamin D. It is involved in the growth and development of skin cells.

Dovonex is used to treat plaque psoriasis (psoriasis with scaly patches).

Dovonex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Dovonex

Use Dovonex only on affected patches of the skin. Do not use Dovonex on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin or on an open wound.

Avoid abrasive, harsh, or drying soaps and cleansers while using Dovonex.

Do not use more than 100 grams of calcipotriene in a week.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Dovonex?

Do not use Dovonex on skin that is sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated. It could make these conditions much worse. Dovonex is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Dovonex will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Dovonex without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known if Dovonex passes into breast milk. Do not use Dovonex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Dovonex?

Apply Dovonex exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after applying Dovonex, unless you are using it to treat a hand condition.

Clean and dry the area of skin where you will apply Dovonex. Apply the medication only to the affected area.

Do not apply Dovonex to eyes, mouth, face, mucous membranes, open sores, or irritated skin. If you get medication on any of these areas, rinse it off with water.

Dovonex is usually applied once or twice a day.

Do not apply more Dovonex than is prescribed by your doctor. Never apply more than 100 grams in a week.

It may take 2 weeks to see the effects of this drug. Do not stop using Dovonex if you do not see results immediately. Store Dovonex at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only your next regularly scheduled dose.

What happens if I overdose?

If you suspect an overdose, or if Dovonex has been ingested, call an emergency room or poison control center near you.

Symptoms of an overdose of Dovonex include weakness, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, and high levels of calcium in the blood.

What should I avoid while using Dovonex?

Avoid using other topical products at the same time as Dovonex unless they are prescribed by your doctor. Some topical medicines may interfere with the effects or absorption of Dovonex.

Avoid washing the area you are treating more than three times a day. Too much washing may cause your skin to become very dry or irritated.

Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics on the area you are treating.

What are the possible side effects of Dovonex?

Serious side effects are very rare. Stop using Dovonex and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

You may experience some irritation of the skin, such as burning, itching, redness, swelling, dryness, or peeling while you are using Dovonex. These side effects sometimes lessen with continued treatment. Notify your doctor if you experience these side effects.

If you notice a change in your skin color, contact your doctor.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Dovonex side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Dovonex?

Avoid using harsh, abrasive, or irritating cleansers, perfumes, or cosmetics on the area you are treating.

Other medicines, especially other topical medicines, may interact with Dovonex. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before using any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about Dovonex written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Calcipotriene topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Dovonex. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about Dovonex, especially if it is new to you.

• Dovonex - 0.005% ointment

• Dovonex - 0.005% solution