What is Calcipotriene: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Calcipotriene overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Calcitrene, Dovonex, Sorilux, Sorilux

Generic Names:

  • Calcipotriene

Uses:

  • Treats plaque psoriasis in adults.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antipsoriatic

Forms:

  • Cream, Foam, Liquid, Ointment

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What form(s) does Calcipotriene come in

  • Cream

  • Foam

  • Liquid

  • Ointment

What are common Calcipotriene doses?

  • Tube 60GM of 0.005%

  • Tube 120GM of 0.005%

  • Bottle 60ML of 0.005%

  • Can 60GM of 0.005%

Common Calcipotriene prescriptions

  • Calcipotriene
    60ml of 0.005% bottle

  • Calcipotriene
    60gm of 0.005% can

  • Calcipotriene
    120gm of 0.005% tube

  • Calcipotriene
    60gm of 0.005% tube

  • Calcipotriene
    120gm of 0.005% tube of cream

  • Calcipotriene
    60gm of 0.005% tube of cream

  • Calcipotriene
    120gm of 0.005% tube of ointment

  • Calcipotriene
    60gm of 0.005% tube of ointment

How to take Calcipotriene

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. If the skin on your hands is being treated with the medicine, only wash the skin that is not affected.

  • The liquid and foam are flammable and could catch on fire. Do not use these medicines near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not poke holes in the foam canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty. Do not keep the foam inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • To use this medicine: Cream or ointment: Apply a thin layer to the red, scaly patches on your skin. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin. Liquid: First comb your dry hair to remove extra skin flakes and scales. Part your hair so you can see the patches on your scalp. Then apply the liquid only to the affected patches. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the scalp. Foam: Break the plastic piece on the nozzle of the can. Shake the can before each use. Turn the can upside down and place a small amount into the palm of your hand. Apply a thin layer to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin. If using on the scalp, apply when your hair is dry.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • The liquid and foam are flammable and could catch on fire. Do not use these medicines near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not poke holes in the foam canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty. Do not keep the foam inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine. If the skin on your hands is being treated with the medicine, only wash the skin that is not affected.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • To use this medicine: Cream or ointment: Apply a thin layer to the red, scaly patches on your skin. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin. Liquid: First comb your dry hair to remove extra skin flakes and scales. Part your hair so you can see the patches on your scalp. Then apply the liquid only to the affected patches. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the scalp. Foam: Break the plastic piece on the nozzle of the can. Shake the can before each use. Turn the can upside down and place a small amount into the palm of your hand. Apply a thin layer to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin. If using on the scalp, apply when your hair is dry.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

Calcipotriene contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to calcipotriene or you have hypercalcemia.

Calcipotriene warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any medical problems.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined. Do not use the medicine in or near your face, eyes, mouth, or vagina.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Uneven heartbeat

  • Worsening of psoriasis

Calcipotriene interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you are getting light therapy for your psoriasis.

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined. Do not use the medicine in or near your face, eyes, mouth, or vagina.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Calcipotriene side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Worsening of psoriasis

  • Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting

  • Skin burning, pain, redness, or peeling

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Extreme confusion or mood swings

  • Increase in thirst or how often you urinate

  • Uneven heartbeat

  • Muscle weakness

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild redness or pain where you apply the medicine

  • Constipation

  • Loss of appetite