CALCITRIOL OINTMENT - TOPICAL

CALCITRIOL OINTMENT - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (KAL-si-TRYE-ol)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vectical

GENERIC NAME(S): calcitriol

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat psoriasis. Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D. It works by slowing down the growth of cells.


How to use CALCITRIOL OINTMENT - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: Use this medication on the skin only. Wash the affected area and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of medication usually twice daily, in the morning and in the evening, or as directed by your doctor. Apply only to the areas of skin affected by psoriasis. Gently rub in. Wash your hands after using, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Do not apply calcitriol to the face, in the eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. Do not apply to a larger area of skin, apply more often, or use longer than prescribed. Your skin will not improve any faster and this may increase the risk of side effects. Do not cover, bandage, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. Do not apply to more than one-third of your body. Do not use more than 1 ounce (30 grams) daily. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. You should usually begin to see an improvement in your skin condition after 4 weeks of treatment.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, burning, itching, redness, or peeling at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. This medication may rarely increase calcium in your blood. Tell your doctor right away if any of these symptoms of high calcium occur: unusual tiredness, mental/mood changes, unexplained constipation, pink/bloody urine, painful urination. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other vitamin D products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: high calcium/vitamin D levels (hypercalcemia/hypervitaminosis D), kidney disease, liver disease. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Your doctor may direct you to limit or avoid phototherapy while you use this product. Ask your doctor for details. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other products containing vitamin D, drugs that can increase calcium levels (such as thiazide "water pills", calcium supplements). Calcitriol ointment may be irritating to the skin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of other skin products that may have a drying effect (such as astringents, peeling agents). This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medication may be harmful if applied to large areas or swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, muscle weakness, depression.

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Faq for CALCITRIOL OINTMENT - TOPICAL

Calcitriol ointment is used to treat certain skin conditions, such as plaque psoriasis, by reducing the growth of skin cells and reducing inflammation.

Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area and gently rub it in until it is evenly distributed. It is usually applied once daily, but your doctor may provide specific instructions.

Calcitriol ointment is usually not recommended for use on the face. However, you should consult with your doctor to discuss potential off-label usage.

Common side effects include itching, redness, burning, stinging, or peeling of the skin. If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Serious side effects are rare but seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe skin irritation or allergic reactions.

It is important to consult with your doctor before using Calcitriol ointment during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They will weigh the potential benefits against the risks and provide you with guidance.

The effects of Calcitriol ointment may vary. It typically takes several weeks of regular use to see improvement in the treated skin condition. Follow your doctor's instructions and be patient with the results.

It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Some medications may interact with Calcitriol ointment, so it's essential to receive proper guidance.

If you forget to apply the ointment, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next application, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Do not discontinue the use of Calcitriol ointment without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. They will advise you on the duration of treatment to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.