What is this medicine?
CALCITRIOL (kal si TRYE ole) is a man made form of vitamin D. It is used on the skin to treat plaque psoriasis. This medicine is not a cure. It helps reduce the redness, thickness, and scaling that occur with psoriasis.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-high level of calcium in the blood or urine
-high level of vitamin D in the blood
-kidney stones
-sunburn
-an unusual or allergic reaction to calcitriol, vitamin D, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Apply a thin film of medicine to the affected area. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your doctor or health care professional tells you to. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not apply this medicine to your face, eyes or genital regions. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use it more often than directed. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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-calcium supplements
-thiazide diuretics
-vitamin D
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-blood in the urine
-breathing problems
-constipation
-increased thirst
-nausea, vomiting
-pain in the lower back or side
-pain when urinating
-unusually weak or tired
-worsening of psoriasis
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-increased sensitivity to the sun
-skin irritation
Where should I keep my medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze or refrigerate. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Information on use before, during and after pregnancy.
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FIRST Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
SECOND Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
THIRD Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Lactation
Caution - Not enough information is available to rule out harm to infants when this drug is taken by nursing mothers.
