Before using calcipotriol

Before using calcipotriol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have been told you have high calcium levels in your blood or problems processing calcium.
• If you have a type of psoriasis other than plaque psoriasis (such as generalised pustular or erythrodermic exfoliative psoriasis).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use calcipotriol

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Apply this preparation exactly as your doctor has told you to.
• Apply the ointment or cream once or twice each day by rubbing it gently into the affected areas. Wash your hands well after each application to avoid accidentally using it on other areas of your body. Do not apply it near the eyes, face, or mouth.
• You only need to use a small amount of cream or ointment. One fingertip unit (a line from the tip of an adult index finger to the first crease) is enough to cover an area twice the size of an adult hand.
• Do not use more than 100 grams a week if you are an adult, more than 75 grams a week in children over 12 years of age, or more than 50 grams a week in children between the ages of 6-12 years.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight while you are being treated with this preparation. Avoid sun beds and sitting out in the sun, and if necessary use a sun cream higher than factor 15.
• If your symptoms do not begin to improve after using this preparation for 2-4 weeks or if they get worse, tell your doctor.
• If you are using calcipotriol with UV light therapy, you must apply it at least two hours before the light treatment.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.

Can calcipotriol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store calcipotriol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Dovonex® Cream, Leo Laboratories, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised June 2006, accessed 17 June 2008.
• British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.