uses
What is topical calcitriol used for?Topical calcitriol is commonly used to treat plaque psoriasis. Plaque psoriasis is a skin condition that can cause an itchy, painful rash with raised red patches of skin (called plaques).Topical calcitriol may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.
See also :Â CalcitriolHow does topical calcitriol work (mechanism of action)?Topical calcitriol is a form of vitamin D.
In plaque psoriasis, there is an overgrowth of skin cells that build up into bumpy patches. Topical calcitriol may help slow the growth of skin cells and restore a healthy balance of skin cells. It may also help control an overactive immune response and inflammation.How is topical calcitriol supplied (dosage forms)?Brands and other namesVecticalDosage forms and strengths3 mcg/g topical ointmentHow should I store topical calcitriol?Topical calcitriol should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze or refrigerate.how to use
ointment that is applied to the skin
drug interactions
Does topical calcitriol interact with foods or drinks?There are no known interactions between topical calcitriol and foods or drinks.It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical calcitriol.Does topical calcitriol interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before using topical calcitriol.A thiazide diuretic, such as chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide, or indapamide, which is a medicine commonly used to lower blood pressureA supplement that contains calcium or vitamin DThis may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with topical calcitriol. Always check with your health care provider.
side effects
What are the most common side effects of topical calcitriol?The most common side effects of topical calcitriol are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.Skin discomfort or itchingHigh calcium levels in your blood or pee (see below)There may be other side effects of topical calcitriol that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.What are the serious side effects of topical calcitriol?While less common, the most serious side effects of topical calcitriol are described below, along with what to do if they happen.Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical calcitriol may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical calcitriol and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.Breathing problems or wheezingRacing heartFever or general ill feelingSwollen lymph nodesSwelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throatTrouble swallowing or throat tightnessItching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hivesNausea or vomitingDizziness, feeling lightheaded, or faintingStomach crampsJoint painHigh Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia). Topical calcitriol may cause high calcium levels, also called hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia can lead to serious problems with your kidneys, heart, or bones. The risk for hypercalcemia may be higher if you cover or bandage the area where this medicine is applied. Keep all appointments, including for blood tests, while you are using topical calcitriol. Stop using topical calcitriol and call your health care provider if you have any of the following symptoms.Peeing frequentlyFeeling thirstyTirednessConfusion or dizzinessPoor appetiteNausea or vomitingConstipationMuscle weaknessBone painAbnormal heart rhythm
overdose and misseddose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical calcitriol?If you or someone else has used too much topical calcitriol, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.What should I do if I miss a dose of topical calcitriol?If you miss a dose of topical calcitriol, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow the original schedule. Do not use double or extra doses or apply topical calcitriol more often than prescribed.
warnings and Precautions
Who should not use topical calcitriol?Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical calcitriol.CalcitriolVecticalAny of the ingredients in the specific product dispensedYour pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical calcitriol products they stock.What should I know about topical calcitriol before using it?Do not use topical calcitriol unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed.Do not share topical calcitriol with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.Keep topical calcitriol out of the reach of children.You should only apply topical calcitriol to skin areas affected by psoriasis. Gently rub it in until it disappears into your skin.Do not apply topical calcitriol to areas such as your eyes, mouth, or vagina. Also, do not apply it on your lips or the skin on your face.Wash your hands after applying topical calcitriol, unless the area you are treating is on your hands.Do not bandage, wrap, or otherwise cover the area where topical calcitriol is applied, unless your health care provider instructed you to do so.What should I tell my health care provider before using topical calcitriol?Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if topical calcitriol is right for you.In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.Problems With Calcium Levels. Tell your health care provider if you have or have had any problems with your calcium levels or any conditions that can affect calcium levels.Other Medicines and Supplements. Topical calcitriol may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using topical calcitriol, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical calcitriol could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical calcitriol passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use topical calcitriol while breastfeeding. If you use topical calcitriol while breastfeeding, do not apply it to the nipple or areola so the medicine does not get into your baby’s mouth.
about
Topical calcitriol is used to treat plaque psoriasis. It comes as an ointment that is applied to the skin. It may work by helping slow the growth of skin cells. Common side effects include skin discomfort or itching. Although less common, topical calcitriol can sometimes cause high calcium levels. This risk may be higher if you cover or bandage the area where the medicine is applied.