Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Calcipotriol

Calcipotriol: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Calcipotriol?

Calcipotriol, also known as calcipotriene, is a synthetic vitamin D2 derivative used topically to treat plaque psoriasis- a condition in which red scaly patches called plaque develop on the skin. Psoriasis is caused by the faster multiplication of the outer layer of skin cells that leads to scaly patches on the skin. Calcipotriol acts by slowing the overproduction of skin cells. It is available as ointment, solution, and cream.

What are the uses of Calcipotriol?

  • Calcipotriol is used in the treatment of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis in adults. The topical cream or ointment is used for the treatment of plaque psoriasis on the arms, legs, or the lower part of the back. A topical solution is used to treat psoriasis on the scalp.
  • Calcipotriol may be used alone or in combination with other drugs such as betamethasone and fluorouracil for the treatment of psoriasis and actinic keratosis, respectively. However, consult your doctor before taking medication.

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    What are the side effects of Calcipotriol?

    Common side effects

    • Skin irritation
    • Skin rash
    • Itchy skin
    • Temporary burning or stinging sensation
    • Thinning of skin
    • Skin discoloration
    • Dry skin

    Serious side effects

    • Allergic reaction
    • High calcium levels that cause bone pain, constipation, vomiting, and nausea

    Most of the side effects associated with Calcipotriol are mild and self-limiting that do not require any medical attention. However, if any side effects start to bother you or get worse, you should inform your doctor and seek medical attention.

    What is Calcipotriol

    Uses of Calcipotriol

    Side effects of Calcipotriol

    References

    1. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6899/smpc#gref
    2. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB02300
    3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/calcipotriol
    4. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Calcipotriol#:~:text=Calcipotriol%20is%20a%20seco%2Dcholestane,plaque%20psoriasis%20in%20adult%20patients.
    5. https://www.goodrx.com/calcipotriene/what-is
    6. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a608018.html
    7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6709030/
    8. https://www.drugs.com/cons/calcipotriene-topical.html

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Calcipotriol

    During psoriasis, the outer layer of the skin multiplies faster than normal. It causes scaly patches to build upon the surface of the skin. Calcipotriol, when applied topically, works by slowing down the rate of skin cell growth that eases the inflamed and scaly areas. Calcipotriol also helps remove scaly skin.

    No, Calcipotriol is not a steroid. Calcipotriol belongs to a class of drugs called synthetic vitamin D derivatives. Sometimes steroids such as betamethasone are also prescribed along with Calcipotriol for the treatment of psoriasis. Further, consult our medical doctors for expert opinions on the use of Calcipotriol.

    Calcipotriol is a synthetic vitamin D derivative indicated for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. It is applied topically on the scalp and other affected areas. It should not be used on the face as it may lead to irritation. Excessive exposure to natural or synthetic sunlight should be avoided during treatment with Calcipotriol.

    Calcipotriol is a class of drugs that belong to synthetic vitamin D derivatives that work by slowing down the production of skin cells and help relieve psoriasis. It is prescribed alone or with corticosteroids to treat mild to moderately severe psoriasis. Steroids such as betamethasone show immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties.

    Calcipotriol is a vitamin D derivative and does not cause drowsiness. However, it may cause skin irritation, dryness of skin, itching, skin rash, or some serious side effects such as symptoms of high calcium levels or worsening of psoriasis. Further, you can consult our experts for the safe use of Calcipotriol.

    The use of Calcipotriol is not associated with weight gain. Its use may cause some side effects such as skin rash, itching, or swelling. Overdose of this medication may cause stomach pain, loss of appetite, and weight loss. For more information on the uses and adverse effects of Calcipotriol, consult our experts.

    There is limited human data to support the use of Calcipotriol in pregnant women. It is preferable to avoid Calcipotriol during pregnancy or contact your doctor. Your doctor might need to weigh the benefits and risks before prescribing Calcipotriol during pregnancy. Consult our team of medical experts on the use of drugs during pregnancy.

    There is no data on whether Calcipotriol is excreted in breast milk or not. Short-term topical use may not show systemic absorption. It may be used during breastfeeding under the guidance of your doctor. Consult our team of medical experts on the use of drugs during breastfeeding.

    The interaction of alcohol with Calcipotriol is not known. However, alcohol may worsen psoriasis. Alcohol consumption may negatively impact the inflammatory processes associated with psoriasis. You should consult your doctor before consuming alcohol if you have psoriasis or undergoing its treatment. Further, you can consult our experts.

    Calcipotriol is a topical medication. So, it needs to be applied to the affected area and not to be consumed orally. It can be applied on the skin on an empty stomach as its usage does not depend on food timings. You can consult our experts for the uses of this medication.