Do you have red, scaly patches on your skin? Sometimes these patches itch and can even be painful. We usually call this condition Plaque Psoriasis. Your doctor may have prescribed you a cream, or ointment, to treat this. It's called Calcipotriene. So today, let's talk about how to use this medicine exactly and what you need to be careful about.
Simply put, what is Calcipotriene?
Calcipotriene is a medicine that is similar to vitamin D. It comes in the form of a cream. It helps control the redness, itching, and peeling of your skin caused by psoriasis. Simply put, it works by controlling the rapid division of your skin cells and helping your skin to heal.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, it is very important to give you a complete description of your health condition. You should especially mention any of the following conditions that you have:
| Situation to be concerned about | Description |
|---|---|
| Calcium level | If you have high calcium levels in your blood. |
| Vitamin D level | If your body has high levels of vitamin D. |
| Skin wounds or burns | If you have burns or wounds on a large area of your body. |
| Radiation therapy | If you have recently undergone or are currently undergoing radiation treatment. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to Calcipotriene or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do you use this ointment?
This is very simple, but it's important to do it right.
- For topical use only: This medicine is for topical use only. Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
- Apply only to the area you want to apply it to: Do not apply this to healthy skin. Apply only to areas with rough skin. Also, do not apply it to a large area of the body at once.
- Do not apply to sensitive areas: Do not apply this medicine to the face, eyes, or genital areas . If you accidentally get it in your eyes, rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water.
- A thin layer: You don't need to apply a lot of the medicine. Apply a thin film to the affected area and rub in gently.
- Take it on time: Use it exactly as your doctor prescribes, at the right time, and for the right amount of time. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.
- Do not apply a bandage: Do not apply a bandage or plaster over the medication unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor.
- If given to children: If this medicine is given to children, special care may be needed. Talk to your doctor about this.
The most important thing is that this medicine is for you only. Do not let anyone else use it, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
What to do if the dose increases (overdose)?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or you can call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Other things to be aware of when using the medicine
- Other cosmetics: Do not apply any other cream, lotion, or ointment to the same area where this medicine is applied without consulting your doctor.
- Be careful with the sun: This is very important. Your skin may become slightly sensitive to the sun (photosensitivity) while using this medicine. Therefore, avoid going out in the sun as much as possible. If you do go out, wear clothing that covers your skin, use a good sunscreen, and avoid using sun lamps or tanning booths.
- See your doctor: Use the medicine and see if there is a change in your condition, go to the doctor on the days that he tells you. If the symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor about it.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but not everyone gets them.
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Side effect | Characteristics |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Severe skin changes | Severe burning, itching, peeling, or crusting at the site of application. |
| High calcium level in the blood | Thirst more than usual, frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, feeling unusually tired, and bone pain. |
| Usually nothing to worry about (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Minor skin changes | Slight redness, dryness, or slight burning where the medicine is applied. |
How do you properly store and dispose of medication?
- Storage: Keep out of reach of children and pets . Store at room temperature (between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius). Do not refrigerate.
- Expired medication: Do not use expired medication.
- Disposal: When disposing of expired or no longer needed medication, if you are throwing it in the trash, first take the medication out of the tube, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, then seal it in a bag or container and throw it in the trash. If you are unsure about this, ask your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Calcipotriene ointment should only be used as directed by your doctor.
- This is for skin use only. Avoid applying to the face, eyes, and sensitive areas.
- Avoid exposure to strong sunlight while using the medicine.
- If you experience any allergic symptoms, severe skin inflammation, or symptoms of calcium overload (excessive thirst, vomiting), tell your doctor immediately.
- Always keep medicines safely out of the reach of children.
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