This medication is used to treat long-term psoriasis of
the scalp. Calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. It works by slowing down
the growth of skin cells.
Use this medication on the skin only. Comb the hair
first to remove any scaly flakes. Apply the medication only to the affected
areas of the scalp and gently rub in as directed by your doctor, usually
twice daily. Take care not to let any of the solution spread onto the
forehead or any unaffected area. Wash your hands after using. Do not apply
the medication on the face, in the eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside the
vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of
water.
Do not apply more often or use longer than prescribed.
This may increase the risk of side effects.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each
day.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse. You should usually begin to see an improvement in your
skin condition after 2 weeks of treatment.
Burning, stinging, tingling, rash, dry skin, or
irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last
or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- skin thinning/discoloration
- stretch marks
- small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis)
- unusual tiredness
- mental/mood changes
- unexplained constipation
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- high calcium/vitamin D levels (hypercalcemia/hypervitaminosis
D)
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun.
Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use
sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor
right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Your doctor
may direct you to limit or avoid phototherapy while you use this product.
Ask your doctor for details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug
are:
- other products containing vitamin D
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as calcium levels) may be
done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab
appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another skin condition unless told
to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that
case.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from sunlight or open
flames. Do not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
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. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.