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Overview: Calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D that is used to treat plaque psoriasis on the body or scalp. Common side effects include temporary burning, stinging, or tingling after you apply the medicine. It can  cause dry skin, rash, irritated skin, or worsening of psoriasis in some people. Calcipotriene may make your skin extra sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to cover your skin and use sunscreen. Contact your health care provider if you have any severe skin reactions or notice increased thirst, muscle pain, or weakness. Calcipotriene comes in several topical forms, including a cream, foam, ointment, and solution.

Uses

What is topical calcipotriene used for?

Topical calcipotriene is commonly used to treat plaque psoriasis of the scalp and body.

Topical calcipotriene may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does topical calcipotriene work (mechanism of action)?

Topical calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. In psoriasis, skin cells grow too quickly and build up into thick, raised patches. Calcipotriene slows the growth of skin cells, which helps reduce and prevent these patches.

How is topical calcipotriene supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Calcitrene
  • Dovonex
  • Sorilux
  • Trionex

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 0.005% cream
  • 0.005% foam
  • 0.005% ointment
  • 0.005% scalp solution

How should I store topical calcipotriene?

Topical Cream and Ointment. Calcipotriene topical cream and ointment 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, in a tightly closed container. Do not freeze.

Topical Foam. Calcipotriene topical foam should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze or refrigerate. The contents of the can are flammable. Keep away from open flames. Do not puncture the can or expose it to high heat. 

Scalp Solution. Calcipotriene topical solution 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, in a tightly closed container. Do not freeze. The contents are flammable. Keep away from open flames.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of topical calcipotriene?

The most common side effects of topical calcipotriene are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Skin irritation such as redness, pain, burning or stinging, rash, and itching at the application site and surrounding skin
  • Dry, peeling skin
  • Worsening of psoriasis

There may be other side effects of topical calcipotriene 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 calcipotriene?

While less common, the most serious side effects of topical calcipotriene are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Calcipotriene may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using calcipotriene and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia).Topical calcipotriene may increase calcium levels. Call your health care provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of high calcium levels.

  • Peeing frequently
  • Increased thirst
  • Weakness
  • Bone pain
  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Decreased appetite
  • Muscle aches, cramps, or twitches
  • Depression, crankiness, or forgetfulness

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use topical calcipotriene?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical calcipotriene products.

  • Calcipotriene
  • Calcitrene
  • Dovonex
  • Sorilux
  • Trionex
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical calcipotriene products they stock.

High Calcium Levels (Hypercalcemia). Topical calcipotriene may increase calcium levels. Do not use topical calcipotriene if you have high calcium levels.

High Vitamin D Levels. Topical calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. Do not use topical calcipotriene if you have high vitamin D levels.

What should I know about topical calcipotriene before using it?

Do not use topical calcipotriene unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share topical calcipotriene with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep topical calcipotriene out of the reach of children.

Topical calcipotriene is for use on the skin only. Wash your hands each time before and after you use  calcipotriene. Avoid using it around your eyes or on the face. If it accidentally comes into contact with your face or your eyes or the area around your eyes, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

Avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (including tanning booths and sun lamps).

Children and people above the age of 65 years can be at a greater risk for some side effects of  calcipotriene. Talk to your health care provider about your risks if you are in one of these age groups.

What should I tell my health care provider before using topical calcipotriene?

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 know if topical calcipotriene is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical calcipotriene could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use  calcipotriene while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical calcipotriene 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  calcipotriene while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does topical calcipotriene interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between topical calcipotriene and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical calcipotriene.

Does topical calcipotriene interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Topical calcipotriene may interact with certain medicines. 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, especially calcium or vitamin D.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical calcipotriene?

If you or someone else has used too much topical calcipotriene, 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 calcipotriene?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.