CALCIPOTRIENE - TOPICAL
(kal-SIP-oh-try-een)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S)
Dovonex Cream, Dovonex Lotion, Dovonex Ointment, Dovonex,
Calcipotriene.
USES
Dovonex (calcipotriene) is a form of vitamin D. It is
used on the skin to treat psoriasis.
HOW TO USE
Dovonex (calcipotriene) is for use on the skin only as
directed. Do not use Dovonex Cream, Dovonex Lotion or
Dovonex Ointment for any other skin condition other than
that for which it has been prescribed. Apply Dovonex
(calcipotriene) in a thin layer to the affected area(s)
usually twice a day. Rub it in gently and completely.
Wash hands after using. Do not apply to the face or near
the eyes.
SIDE EFFECTS
Dry skin, peeling or itching of the skin may occur. If
these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your
doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: a skin rash,
irritation, inflammation or swelling of the skin, worsening
of psoriasis. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, high blood
calcium levels, allergies. Dovonex (calcipotriene) should
be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if Dovonex (calcipotriene) appears in breast milk. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription
med you may take especially of: all skin products used
for psoriasis. Do not start or stop any medicine without
doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Dovonex (calcipotriene)icine
may be harmful if swallowed.
NOTES
You should see some improvement in your condition after
two weeks of using Dovonex Cream, Dovonex Lotion or Dovonex
Ointment with marked improvement after 8 weeks of therapy.
Laboratory tests may be done periodically while using
Dovonex (calcipotriene) to monitor its effectiveness
and prevent side effects.
MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose of Dovonex Cream, Dovonex Lotion or
Dovonex Cream, apply it as soon as remembered; If it
is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose
and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
STORAGE
Store Dovonex Cream, Dovonex Lotion and Dovonex Ointment
at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between
15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not
store in the bathroom. Discard unused med after expiration
date on the container.
