Are you struggling with red, flaky, itchy patches on your scalp? Or do you have red, thick, and flaky patches on your body? Maybe this is why you think twice about wearing black. This is what we call psoriasis , or medically known as psoriasis . Although it can be annoying, it is a condition that can be controlled if managed properly. As a treatment for this, your doctor may have prescribed you a suspension made from two medications called Calcipotriene and Betamethasone . So today, let's talk about how to use this medicine exactly and what you need to be careful about.

What is this medicine called Calcipotriene and Betamethasone?

Simply put, this is like a skilled soldier who attacks your psoriasis from two sides. It combines two main types of medication.

1. Calcipotriene: This is a synthetic compound that works similarly to vitamin D. In psoriasis, skin cells grow faster than normal and build up on top of each other. This is when the skin thickens and starts to peel. So what Calcipotriene does is control that rapid cell growth and bring it back to normal.

2. Betamethasone: This is a type of steroid . Don't be afraid of the word steroid, this is a safe amount that is applied to the skin, prescribed by a doctor. It reduces redness, swelling, and unbearable itching on the skin. In other words, it controls the discomfort caused by the disease.

So when these two are combined, on the one hand, they control the symptoms, and on the other hand, they also control the growth of cells that are the root cause of the disease. You may be familiar with this drug by the brand name Taclonex.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

This is very important. Your doctor will need to know your complete health history before prescribing any medication. So, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

To get the most out of your medication, it is very important to use it as directed.

1. For external use only: This is very important. Do not take this medicine by mouth for any reason. This is for external use only.
2. Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before use. Then shake the medicine bottle well.
3. If applying to the scalp: There is no need to wash your hair before applying the medicine. It is much easier to apply the medicine after combing your hair and making a path so that the areas with the scalp are visible.
4. How to apply: Apply the medicine directly to the affected area and rub in gently in a circular motion with your fingertips. Do not rub too hard.
5. After application: After applying the medicine, you need to give it time to absorb into the skin. Therefore , do not wash your hair or take a shower immediately after applying it.
6. Important areas: Do not apply this medicine to healthy skin, especially the face, groin, and armpits . The skin in these areas is very sensitive.
7. Be careful with your eyes: Be careful not to get any into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
8. Do not bandage: Unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor, do not cover the area where the medication was applied with a bandage or plaster.
9. If given to children: Children over the age of 12 can sometimes be prescribed this medicine by a doctor. However, it is essential to talk to the pediatrician about it and follow his or her instructions.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

Don't worry. Take your medicine as soon as you remember. But if it's very close to your next dose (e.g., just a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

What if I accidentally overdose on medicine?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, or if someone has accidentally taken it, immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . You can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Are there any things that should not be used with this medicine?

Yes. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking other steroid medications, such as hydrocortisone or prednisone.

Also, do not apply any other cream, lotion, ointment, or medication on the area of ​​skin where this medicine is applied without consulting your doctor.

Things to keep in mind when using the medicine

• Blood tests: Your doctor may order a test to check your blood calcium levels while you are taking this medicine.
• Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve, or if they seem to get worse, tell your doctor immediately.
• Sunlight : This is very important. This medicine can make your skin very sensitive to sunlight (Photosensitivity). So avoid direct sunlight . If you are going out during the day, wear clothes that cover your skin, and use sunscreen.Use one. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds.
• Hair treatments: If you are undergoing a chemical treatment (e.g. relax, perm, hair color) on your hair, do not apply this product to your scalp within 12 hours of the treatment or within 12 hours of the treatment.

What are the possible side effects of Behemoth?

Like all medications, there is a small chance of side effects, but these do not occur in everyone.

How should I store the medicine?

• Be sure to keep it out of the reach of children .
• Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not refrigerate.
• When not in use, keep it in its box to protect from light.
• Discard any remaining product after the expiration date, or 6 months after opening the bottle.

Remember, this medicine is prescribed for you only.. Even if your friend or family member has the same symptoms as you, do not share this medicine with them. It can be dangerous.