What is calcitriol topical?
Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D. It works by decreasing the rate of skin cell reproduction.
Calcitriol topical (for the skin) is used to treat plaque psoriasis (raised, silvery flaking of the skin) in adults.
Calcitriol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol topical?
You should not use this medication if you have a severe form of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).
Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you have low or high levels of calcium in your blood, a calcium disorder or metabolic imbalance, or if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using to treat psoriasis. Also tell your doctor if you are taking a diuretic (water pill) or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain calcium or vitamin D.
Calcitriol topical is for use only on areas of psoriasis. Avoid getting it on healthy skin areas. Calcitriol topical should not be applied to the face or the vaginal area.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as blistering or severe redness, itching, or other irritation of treated skin.
Using calcitriol topical can affect your body's ability to metabolize calcium. This can result in high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of this condition include nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, increased thirst and urination, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using calcitriol topical?
You should not use this medication if you have a severe form of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).
To make sure you can safely use calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
low or high levels of calcium in your blood;
a calcium disorder or metabolic imbalance; or
if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether calcitriol topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known if calcitriol topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not use this medication on anyone under 18 years old without medical advice.