Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause unwanted side effects or skin irritation.

This medicine should only be used on the skin. Do not get it into your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away with water.

To use the cream or ointment:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. If the skin on your hands is being treated with the medicine, only wash the skin that is not affected.
  • Apply a thin layer to the affected area of the skin. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin.
  • Do not get any medicine onto your face or into your eyes.

To use the scalp solution:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Before using the medicine, comb your dry hair to remove any skin flakes. Part your hair so you can see the scalp lesions.
  • Apply the solution only to the scalp lesions. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the scalp.
  • Do not get any medicine on your forehead or into your eyes.
  • Do not use this medicine near heat, an open flame, or while smoking.

To use the foam:

  • This medicine comes with a patient information insert and patient instructions. Read and follow the instructions carefully.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. If the skin on your hands is being treated with the medicine, only wash the skin that is not affected.
  • Break the tiny plastic piece on the nozzle of the foam can.
  • Shake the can before each use.
  • Turn the can upside down and place a small amount into the palm of your hand.
  • Apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin and scalp. Rub it in gently until it disappears into the skin. If using on the scalp, apply it when your hair is dry.
  • Do not use the medicine into or near your eyes, mouth, or vagina. If the foam does get in your eyes, wash them right away with water.
  • Do not use this medicine near heat, an open flame, or while smoking.

To help clear up your skin problem completely, it is very important that you keep using calcipotriene for the full time of treatment. Do not miss any doses.

This medicine should only be used for skin conditions that your doctor is treating. Check with your doctor before using it for other skin conditions, especially if you think that a skin infection may be present. This medicine should not be used to treat certain kinds of skin infections or conditions, such as severe burns.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For plaque psoriasis:
    • For topical dosage forms (cream, ointment, and scalp solution):
      • Adults—Apply to the affected area of the skin or scalp once per day or two times per day as directed by your doctor.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For topical dosage form (foam):
      • Adults and children 4 years of age and older—Apply to the affected area of the skin or scalp 2 times a day.
      • Children younger than 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

The scalp solution and foam are flammable. Keep them away from open flame or heat. Do not smoke when you are applying the medicine. Do not poke holes in the foam canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty. Do not keep the foam inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat.

Portions of this document last updated: Feb. 01, 2024

Copyright: © Merative US L.P. 1973, 2024. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.