Vtama

Generic name: tapinarof
Dosage form: cream, for topical use
Drug class: Topical antipsoriatics

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on May 25, 2022.

What is Vtama cream?

Vtama cream is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat plaque psoriasis in adults.

It works by activating the aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhR) in the skin to reduce inflammation. The way it works is similar to topical coal tar, which has been used in the treatment of psoriasis for more than a century.

What is Vtama cream used to treat?

Vtama is used to treat mild, moderate, and severe psoriasis in adults.

It can be used on all areas of the body, including on sensitive locations, such as the face, skin folds, and neck.

It is not known if the cream is safe and effective in children with psoriasis under 18 years of age.

Important information

Vtama cream is for use on the skin (topical use) only. Do not use the cream in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.

Before using Vtama cream

Before you start treatment, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if Vtama cream will harm your unborn baby.
are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Vtama cream passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment.

What other drugs will affect Vtama cream?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

How should I use Vtama cream?

Use the cream exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.
Apply a thin layer of the cream only to your psoriasis skin lesions one time each day. Avoid applying the cream to unaffected areas of your skin.
Wash your hands after applying the cream unless you are using it to treat your hands.
If someone else applies the cream for you, they should wash their hands after application.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dosage for Plaque Psoriasis

- apply a thin layer of cream to affected areas once daily

- Use: topical treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults

Vtama side effects

The most common side effects include:

red raised bumps around the hair pores (folliculitis)
pain or swelling in the nose and throat (nasopharyngitis)
skin rash or irritation including itching and redness, peeling, burning, or stinging
headache
itching
flu

These are not all the possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store Vtama cream?

Store Vtama cream at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
Do not freeze the cream.
Protect the cream from exposure to excessive heat.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.

General information about the safe and effective use of Vtama cream.

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use this cream for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give it to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information that is written for health professionals.

What are the ingredients in Vtama cream?

Active ingredient: tapinarof
Inactive ingredients: benzoic acid, butylated hydroxytoluene, citric acid monohydrate, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, edetate disodium, emulsifying wax, medium chain triglycerides, polyoxyl 2 stearyl ether, polyoxyl 20 stearyl ether, polysorbate 80, propylene glycol, purified water, and sodium citrate dihydrate.