Calcipotriene for Psoriasis
| calcipotriene, also known as calcipotriol |
Dovonex, Sorilux |
Calcipotriene is available as a cream, foam, and solution. It may also be used in combination with
ultraviolet B (UVB) light.
Calcipotriene, which is a form of vitamin D, controls the rapid
growth of skin cells.
Calcipotriene is used to treat mild to severe plaque forms of
psoriasis. It is used on the scalp and skin.
Calcipotriene, also known as calcipotriol, is considered an
effective treatment for psoriasis.
1
These products are usually as effective as corticosteroid creams
and ointments.
1
Calcipotriene may delay
relapse (flare-ups).
1
If you use calcipotriene as your doctor tells you to, it is not likely to cause any side effects except for some skin irritation, such as itchy, red, or tender skin. But if you spread the cream over too much of your body, a large amount of medicine may be absorbed and can cause serious side effects, including high levels of calcium in the blood and kidney stones.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference
is not available in all systems.)
Calcipotriene is not the same type of vitamin D found in
over-the-counter products. These products will not help your psoriasis.
Diets that include large amounts of vitamin D are not effective in
treating psoriasis.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)
(What is a PDF document?)
to help you understand this medication.
Citations
-
Naldi L, Rzany B (2009). Psoriasis (chronic plaque),
search date August 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence
: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
|
By
| Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
| Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
| Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
|
Last Revised
| January 9, 2012 |
Last Revised:
January 9, 2012
Naldi L, Rzany B (2009). Psoriasis (chronic plaque),
search date August 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
