Dosing and uses of Dovonex, Calcitrene Ointment (calcipotriene)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
topical solution
- 0.005%
topical ointment
- 0.005%
topical cream
- 0.005%
topical foam
- 0.005%
Moderate Plaque Psoriasis
Ointment/Cream
- Apply thin layer to affected skin BID
Solution
- Apply to affected scalp BID
Foam
- Apply thin layer topically to affected skin BID
Administration
Rub in gently and completely
May use for up to 8 weeks
Other Information
Foam is flammable, contents under pressure, do not expose to heat or store at temperatures above 120 degrees F
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
Safety and efficacy not established
Dovonex, Calcitrene Ointment (calcipotriene) adverse (side) effects
>10%
Burning
Itching
Skin irritation
1-10%
Dermatitis
Dry skin
Erythema
Peeling
Worsening of psoriasis including facial/scalp
Rash
<1%
Folliculitis
Hypercalcemia
Hyperpigmentation
Skin atrophy
Postmarketing Reports
Contact dermatitis, including allergic contact dermatitis
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity, use on face, hypercalcemia, or evidence Vit D toxicity
Cautions
Photosensitivity reported; avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight
Contact dermatitis, including allergic contact dermatitis, reported
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: excretion in milk unknown; use with caution
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Dovonex, Calcitrene Ointment (calcipotriene)
Absorption: 5-6% systemically
Metabolism: converted to inactive metabolites within 24 hr
Excretion: bile
Mechanism of action
In vitro evidence suggests drug is roughly equipotent to natural vitamin D in its effects on proliferation & differentiation of various cell types
