Calcipotriene topical solution

What is this medication?

CALCIPOTRIENE (kal si poe TRYE een) is a form of vitamin D that is used on the scalp to treat psoriasis. This medicine is not a cure, but it helps reduce the redness, thickness, and scaling that occur with psoriasis.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Dovonex Scalp

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•high level of calcium in the blood or urine

•high level of vitamin D in the blood

•kidney stones

•sunburn

•an unusual or allergic reaction to calcipotriene, vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Comb hair to remove scaly debris. Ater parting hair, apply solution to lesions and rub in gently and completely. Avoid spreading the solution onto the forehead or unaffected areas. Keep away from eyes. Do not use more than the prescribed dose. Do not use this medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Improvement is usually seen within 2 weeks, although the full effect of this medicine may not appear for about 4 to 8 weeks.This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•breathing problems

•constipation

•depression

•increased thirst

•nausea, vomiting

•skin redness and swelling

•unusually weak or tired

•worsening of psoriasis

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•change in skin color

•dry peeling skin

•increased sensitivity to the sun

•skin irritation, stinging

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.