Brand Name
Silkis
Common Name
calcitriol topical
In this drug factsheet:
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Calcitriol topical belongs to the class of medications known as vitamin D analogues. It is also known as a nonsteroidal antipsoriatic agent. Calcitriol topical is used to treat mild to moderate plaque-type psoriasis (skin condition) involving up to 35% of the body surface area.
This medication works by controlling the excessive production of skin cells seen in psoriasis, thereby eliminating the red, scaly patches seen in the skin condition. You may notice an improvement after about 2 weeks of treatment.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
Calcitriol topical should be applied to the affected areas with psoriasis twice daily, morning and evening. Do not use more than 30 g of this medication daily, and only use this medication if the affected body area is 35% or less.
Wash and gently dry the affected area. Gently rub in the ointment until it is no longer visible. Do not cover the area with bandage or any other materials. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after each application. Once the psoriasis improves, your doctor may advise you to stop using calcitriol. Your doctor may advise you to use the medication again if the psoriasis lesions reappear.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Each g of white, translucent, ointment contains 3 µg (0.0003% w/w) of calcitriol. Nonmedicinal ingredients: vitamin E (dL-α-tocopherol), mineral oil, and white petrolatum.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Calcitriol topical should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to calcitriol or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is being treated for conditions affecting normal calcium levels
- has high calcium levels in the blood or is known to have abnormal calcium metabolism
- has severe kidney dysfunction or end-stage renal disease
