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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Calcitriol (topical)

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Calcitriol (topical)

  • A maximum of 30g of ointment may be applied per day to a maximum 35% of body surface area.
  • In the case of severe irritation or allergy, stop treatment and see your doctor.

About calcitriol (topical)

Type of medicineVitamin D derivative
Used forPsoriasis
Also calledSilkis®
Available asOintment

Psoriasis causes overgrowth of skin cells which forms red, scaly patches of skin. Calcitriol (topical) works by slowing the production of skin cells.

Before using calcitriol (topical)

Before using calcitriol (topical) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have been told you have high calcium levels in your blood or problems processing calcium.
  • If you are taking medication such as thiazide diuretics (eg bendroflumethiazide), calcium supplements or vitamin D supplements.

How to use calcitriol (topical)

  • Usually applied twice a day, after washing the affected area.
  • Apply evenly over the affected area.
  • Important: a maximum of 30g of ointment may be applied per day to a maximum 35% of body surface area.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Wash your hands after applying calcitriol (topical).
  • Do not cover the treated area with a dressing or bandage.
  • You will need to use calcitriol (topical) for 2 - 4 weeks before seeing any improvement.

Can calcitriol (topical) 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.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Itching, skin discomfort or irritationUsually mild- if persistant speak to your doctor.
Redness of skinUsually mild- if persistant speak to your doctor.

Important: in the case of severe irritation or allergy, stop treatment and see your doctor.

How to store calcitriol (topical)

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • Once opened, discard after 8 weeks.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

© EMIS 2008DocID:
8649		DocRef:
dils3931		Last Reviewed:
4 Feb 2008		Version:
1
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