Calcipotriol & Betamethasone

About Calcipotriol & Betamethasone

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Topical corticosteroids.

This preparation contains two ingredients, calcipotriol and betamethasone.

This preparation is used to treat plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is a skin disorder caused by cells in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) multiplying too quickly. As new skin cells are produced, old ones are shed. If this process is taking place too quickly, old skin cells build up on the skin surface causing red, scaly patches.

Betamethasone relieves inflammation, when the skin is red, swollen and irritated.

This preparation is not a cure for your condition, but will help relieve the symptoms.

This preparation is available in ointment form.

It is also sometimes known as: Dovobet. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Calcipotriol & Betamethasone

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any of the ingredients listed on the packaging of this preparation
• if you are using any other preparations, including those available to purchase without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Calcipotriol & Betamethasone

• Always read the manufacture's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Apply to the affected area as detailed on the container. Wash the affected area of skin and dry well, removing all traces of soap. Unless otherwise directed apply a thin layer of the preparation once or twice a day and massage gently into the skin until it disappears.
• You only need to use a small amount of this preparation. If you have been prescribed a 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.
• This preparation is not recommended for use for anyone under the age of 18 years.
• Never apply more than this quantity or more often than advised by your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• This product is for external use only. If you suspect that someone has swallowed any of this product contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If your symptoms do not begin to improve after using this preparation for 2-4 weeks or if they get worse, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
• This preparation should not be applied to the face. If it does come into contact with your face, wash it off straight away.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, if any of this preparation gets into the eyes rinse thoroughly with warm water.
• Try to avoid applying this preparation to non-affected, healthy skin.
• Wash your hands well after each application.
• Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight while you are being treated with this ointment. Take care in the sun or when using sun beds and if necessary use a sun cream higher than factor 15.

Can Calcipotriol & Betamethasone cause problems?

Topical corticosteroids can cause side effects but these are unlikely with mild potency preparations.

If your condition gets worse or if you experience pain, pus-filled blisters or burning after using this preparation contact your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Calcipotriol & Betamethasone

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 15/07/2003