Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment
Generic name: Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment [ kal-si-POE-try-een ]
Brand names: Dovonex, Kalosar
Drug class: Topical antipsoriatics
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 15, 2024.
Uses of Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment:
- It is used to treat plaque psoriasis.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment?
- If you have an allergy to calcipotriene or any other part of calcipotriene cream and ointment.
- If you are allergic to calcipotriene cream and ointment; any part of calcipotriene cream and ointment; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
- If you have any of these health problems: High calcium levels or too much vitamin D in the body.
This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with calcipotriene cream and ointment.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take calcipotriene cream and ointment with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take calcipotriene cream and ointment. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- It may take several weeks to see the full effects.
- You may get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen and wear clothing and eyewear that protects you from the sun.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
- If you are breast-feeding, do not put calcipotriene cream and ointment on the chest. Talk with your doctor.
How is this medicine (Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment) best taken?
Use calcipotriene cream and ointment as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
- Do not put calcipotriene cream and ointment on the face.
- Wash your hands before and after use. Do not wash your hands after use if putting this on your hand.
- Do not take calcipotriene cream and ointment by mouth. Use on your skin only. Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
- Put a thin layer on the affected skin and rub in gently.
- Avoid putting on healthy skin.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- Put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
- If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
- Do not put on 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
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What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Signs of high calcium levels like weakness, confusion, feeling tired, headache, upset stomach and throwing up, constipation, or bone pain.
What are some other side effects of Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
- Irritation where calcipotriene cream and ointment is used.
- Dry skin.
- Peeling.
- Burning or stinging.
- Skin tingling.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
If OVERDOSE is suspected:
If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
How do I store and/or throw out Calcipotriene Cream and Ointment?
- Store at room temperature. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
- Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
- Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
- If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
- Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
- Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about calcipotriene cream and ointment, please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
- If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.
Frequently asked questions
- Can Enstilar be used on the scalp?
- What causes Plaque Psoriasis?
- Is Enstilar Foam used to treat plaque psoriasis?
More about calcipotriene topical
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (39)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical antipsoriatics
- Breastfeeding
- En español
Patient resources
Other brands
Professional resources
- Calcipotriene (Topical) monograph
- Calcipotriene (FDA)
- Calcipotriene Cream (FDA)
- Calcipotriene Foam (FDA)
- Calcipotriene Ointment (FDA)
- Calcipotriene Scalp Solution (FDA)
Other brands
Dovonex, Calcitrene, Sorilux, Kalosar
Related treatment guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.