Calcitriol - Topical

Calcitriol is used to treat mild to moderately severe plaque psoriasis (a type of skin disease that allows the skin cells to rapidly build up causing itchy patches of thick, red skin and silvery scales).

Apply Calcitriol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not apply more often or over a larger area than instructed by your doctor.

To apply this medicine, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Clean and dry the affected area before application.
3. Rub the ointment gently on the skin until it disappears. Do not cover, wrap or bandage the area unless instructed by the doctor.
4. Wash your hands after using.
5. Replace the cap of the tube.

Avoid any contact of this medicine with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine accidentally gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have problem with your eyesight.

Do not use with occlusive dressing unless instructed by the doctor.

Calcitriol must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it unless instructed by the doctor.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to apply your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• hypercalcaemia (high calcium level in the blood)
• history of abnormal calcium metabolism
• currently under oral or intravenous treatment for calcium deficiency
• liver disease
• kidney disease

as Calcitriol may not be suitable for you.

Inform your doctor if you have other types of psoriasis e.g. erythrodermic (widespread, fiery redness and exfoliation of the skin), pustular (pus-filled bumps surrounded by red skin).

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Calcitriol is not recommended to be applied in more than 35% of the body surface during daily treatments.

Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight, UV lamps, or phototherapy (light therapy).

Certain factors such as dry and cold weather, stress, trauma to the skin, infections, alcohol, and smoking can trigger or worsen psoriasis. Take good care of your skin by keeping it clean, moisturised and free from cuts and infections. Avoid going out during dry and cold weather. Learn to manage your stress, avoid alcohol, and quit smoking. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are also good for your overall health and wellness.

For as long as you are using Calcitriol, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. blood calcium or phosphorus levels) to check your body’s response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.

Calcitriol may cause any of the following side effects: skin discomfort, irritation, itching, rash, redness, dryness, and burning sensation on the application site.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• signs of high calcium levels in the blood e.g. weakness, confusion, constipation, bone pain
• severe skin irritation e.g. severe redness or itching

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

• other medicines or supplements containing vitamin D
• water pills or medicines for water retention e.g. hydrochlorothiazide, bendroflumethiazide
• digoxin (medicine for heart disease)
• calcium supplements

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Calcitriol.

Let your doctor know if you are using any other creams, ointments or other medicines on the affected area.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

It is important to adhere to the diet prescribed by your doctor.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.