Generic
Calcipotriol
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Calcipotriol is a topical medication used in the treatment of mild to moderate chronic stable plaque type psoriasis vulgaris. It is a synthetic form of vitamin D that reduces the rate of skin cell growth, controlling red, scaly patches on the skin.
Description
Calcipotriol is a non-steroidal antipsoriatic agent derived from vitamin D. It exhibits a vitamin D-like effect by competing for the 1,25(OH)₂D₃ receptor. Calcipotriol is as potent as the naturally occurring active form of vitamin D in regulating cell proliferation and cell differentiation, but much less active in its effect on calcium metabolism.
Calcipotriol induces differentiation and suppresses proliferation (without any cytotoxic effect) of keratinocytes, thus reversing the abnormal keratinocyte changes in psoriasis. The therapeutic goal is normalization of epidermal growth.
Indications
- Chronic stable plaque type psoriasis vulgaris
Therapeutic class
Topical Vitamin D & related preparations
Pharmacological class
Vitamin D Analogue (Antipsoriatic)
Pharmacology
Calcipotriol is a synthetic analogue of vitamin D that suppresses keratinocyte proliferation and induces differentiation. It binds to the 1,25(OH)₂D₃ receptor to control abnormal skin cell growth in psoriasis. Its effect on calcium metabolism is less than that of natural vitamin D.
Mechanism of action
Calcipotriol reduces keratinocyte proliferation and promotes differentiation, controlling abnormal skin cell growth in psoriasis, thereby reducing red, scaly skin patches.
Dosage
Adults: Apply to the affected area twice daily (morning and evening) as cream/ointment. Less frequent application may be indicated after the initial treatment period.
Maximum weekly dose: 100 g/week (cream).
Children (>12 years): Not to exceed 75 g/week.
Children (6-12 years): Not to exceed 50 g/week.
Scalp psoriasis (solution): Apply 1-2 times daily; maximum 60 mL/week.
Note: Discontinue after satisfactory improvement; may be reinstituted if recurrence occurs. Experience with use for more than 1 year is limited.
Administration
For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area and apply a small amount of cream/ointment and gently massage. Wash hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common side effects: Dry skin, skin irritation, itching, burning sensation, stinging sensation, redness of skin, rash.
Other: Photosensitivity reactions, skin discoloration, bullous eruption, skin exfoliation, contact dermatitis, allergic reactions.
Side effects are usually temporary and resolve over time.
Precautions & warnings
- Do not apply on the face (may cause skin irritation).
- Caution during pregnancy and lactation; do not apply on the chest area during breastfeeding (to avoid ingestion by infants).
- Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight or UV light (inform your doctor if receiving UV treatment).
- Do not use in generalized pustular psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, or erythrodermic exfoliative psoriasis.
- Avoid in patients with known disorders of calcium metabolism.
- Experience in children is limited; use with caution.
Contraindications
- History of hypersensitivity to any of the components
- Known disorders of calcium metabolism
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions are known.
Food interactions
No food-related restrictions (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
May be unsafe during pregnancy (Category C). Limited human studies available; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Use during pregnancy only if benefits clearly outweigh risks and under medical supervision.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Probably safe during breastfeeding (if prescribed). However, it is not known whether calcipotriol is excreted in breast milk; do not apply on the chest area during breastfeeding to avoid possible ingestion by infants.
Pediatric use
Experience in children is limited; use with caution under medical supervision. Children (6-12 years): Not to exceed 50 g/week; (>12 years): Not to exceed 75 g/week.
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment required for elderly, but caution advised.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Avoid in patients with known disorders of calcium metabolism. No special precautions required for patients with liver or kidney impairment (minimal systemic absorption with topical application).
Overdose effects
Overuse may cause skin irritation and, rarely, disturbances in calcium metabolism. Consult your doctor if symptoms occur.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Calcipotriol (Vitamin D Analogue)