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Calcipotriene; Betamethasone Foam

What is this medication?

CALCIPOTRIENE; BETAMETHASONE (kal si poe TRYE een; bay ta METH a sone) treats psoriasis. It works by reducing redness, irritation, and scaling on the skin. It is a combination of a vitamin D derivative and a topical steroid.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Enstilar

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

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

  • Erythrodermic, exfoliative, or pustular psoriasis
  • Getting light therapy for psoriasis
  • High levels of calcium in the blood
  • High levels of Vitamin D in the blood
  • Skin infection or thinning
  • An unusual reaction to calcipotriene, betamethasone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Wash your hands before and after use. Apply the medication to the affected area. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your care team tells you to. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. It is important not to use more medication than prescribed. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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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?

This medication may interact with the following:

  • Other steroid medications, such as hydrocortisone or prednisone

Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without asking your care team.

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?

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse. Tell your care team if you are exposed to anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.

This medication 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 care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Change in vision
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)—increased thirst or amount of urine, unusual weakness or fatigue, blurry vision
  • High calcium level—increased thirst or amount of urine, nausea, vomiting, confusion, unusual weakness or fatigue, bone pain
  • Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness

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

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
  • Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles

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 and pets.

This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not store at temperatures above 49 degrees C (120 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

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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.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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