Description

What is calcipotriol used for?

‘Calcipotriol 120 g’ is usually a pack size of 120 grams of a topical calcipotriol product. Calcipotriol is a synthetic vitamin D mainly prescribed by doctors for plaque psoriasis. It helps to control the rapid growth of skin cells that cause thick, dry and scaly patches.

Interestingly, the 120g is the amount in the pack and not how much you should use. Strength, formulation, directions and approved uses vary by country and product. Therefore, always read the label before treating.

How does calcipotriol work for psoriasis?

In plaque psoriasis, skin cells grow too quickly. This can lead to flaky silver scales and raised plaques. Calcipotriol affects the growth and development of skin cells. Therefore, regular use can reduce scaling and flatten psoriasis plaques over time.

But calcipotriol treats symptoms, not the disease itself. It may take several weeks to see improvement, so use it regularly for the length of time your prescriber suggests.

How to use Calcipotriol

Products and treatment regimens are different. Follow your prescription. Here are some general steps to help you use topical calcipotriol safely:

1. Wash & dry hands.
2. Only a thin film over the plaques of psoriasis.
3. massage it in gently until the skin soaks it in.
4. If treating your hands, wash your hands again.
5. Avoid contact of the medicine with the eyes, mouth and unaffected skin.

A lot of patients use calcipotriol once or twice a day but your instructions may be different. Also, do not cover treated areas with an airtight dressing unless your clinician tells you to.

Does a 120g Pack last for a Week?

Nope. The pack size of Calcipotriol is 120g and should never be taken as a weekly dose. Some clinical guidance restricts adult calcipotriol ointment or cream to 100 grammes /week. However, the correct limit is dependent on product-, age-, treatment area- and local prescribing information.

Too much can increase calcium levels in the blood. So take the maximum amount stated in your leaflet or recommended by your clinician. If the pack contains more medicine than you told the chemist you needed in a week, ask why.

Where to NOT Use It

Do not use calcipotriol on the face unless your specialist has told you to do so. The skin of the face may become irritable. Also avoid eyes, mouth, broken skin and healthy skin around plaques.

Also, let your doctor know if you are receiving treatment with ultraviolet light. Calcipotriol may also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight so follow professional advice on sun exposure and sunbeds.

Typical Side Effects

Some people have mild reactions to where they place the medicine. Possible effects include:

• Burning or stinging symptoms
• Itching.
• Rash or redness
• Irritated or dry skin
• Transient exacerbation of psoriasis

The effects tend to be local. However, if the irritation is severe, persists or spreads see a doctor or chemist.

Serious Signs of Trouble

A high level of calcium can be due to too much absorption – very rarely. Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms: unusual thirst, urinating more often, dry mouth, metallic taste, muscle weakness, nausea, or loss of appetite.

If you develop trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or another sign of a severe allergic reaction, call emergency services right away.

Who Should Talk to a Clinician Before Using It?

Tell your doctor or chemist before using Calcipotriol 120g if you:

• Have a disorder of calcium metabolism or abnormal calcium levels
• Have serious kidney or liver disease
• Have pustular or erythrodermic psoriasis.
• Get UV light treatment
• Calcium, vitamin D or drugs that can raise blood calcium
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Have previously reacted to calcipotriol

Also, treatment restrictions for children can be less than for adults. Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.

Better and safer use tips

Give the medicine around the same time each day. This simple routine will help you get consistent. Meanwhile continue with whatever moisturiser your clinician suggests but ask how long to wait between products.

Just use a thin film as excess ointment will not necessarily clear plaques quicker. Too much, however, may cause additional side effects. Finally, make appointments if your prescriber wants to check your skin or calcium level.

Frequently Asked Question

What is Calcipotriol 120g used for?

It’s mostly prescribed to treat plaque psoriasis. It slows the rate of excess skin cell growth and may reduce scaling and plaque thickness.

Is calcipotriol a steroid?

Nope. Calcipotriol belongs to the group of vitamin D analogues. However, some prescription products combine it with a corticosteroid, so check your label carefully.

Calcipotriol 120g Can I use this on my face?

Usually not. It can irritate skin on the face. Only apply on face if instructed to do so by a qualified clinician.

How often do I need to use it?

Many calcipotriol preparations are used once or twice daily. Formulations differ, however, so your product label and prescription are of utmost importance.

How long until calcipotriol works?

A few people notice a difference in a few weeks. However, results vary, and your doctor will decide how long you will be treated.

Can I use the entire 120g pack in a week?

Don’t think you can. A 120g pack is not dose advice and some guidelines recommend a lower adult maximum per week. Take your leaflet and prescription.

Can I use a moisturiser with calcipotriol?

Usually. Moisturisers can help with psoriasis care. However, ask your doctor or chemist how to space the products so that one does not dilute the other.

What do you do if you miss an application?

Use it as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

**Can I use calcipotriol forever for psoriasis?**

Nope. It can be used for plaques and scaling, but psoriasis is a chronic condition that may return once treatment is stopped.

No drug interactions between calcipotriol and vitamin D supplements are known.

Certain medicines and calcium supplements can raise the risk of high blood calcium. So tell your prescriber about all the medications and supplements you take.

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Summary

Calcipotriol 120g is a prescription topical medicine for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Used properly by patients, it can reduce scaling and slow the overproduction of skin cells. But 120g is the size of the pack, not a recommended dose. So stick to the amount on your prescription, avoid sensitive areas and seek medical advice if you develop severe irritation or symptoms of high blood calcium.