What is Dovonex?
Dovonex is a topical vitamin D made by man that can be used for treating plaque psoriasis. It works by reducing the production of skin cells, which helps to reduce inflamed and scaly patches. Dovonex comes as an ointment or cream. Topical scalp lotion is no longer available.
Warnings
Dovonex should not be used if your body contains high levels of vitamin D or calcium, or if any of its ingredients are allergenic to you. Tell your doctor before using Dovonex if you receive phototherapy for psoriasis. Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight or other artificial light sources, such as tanning booths and sunlamps. Avoid contact with the eyes or the face. Use it only to treat skin conditions that have been examined by your doctor. This medication should not be shared with anyone else, even if the other person has similar symptoms.
Before you take this drug
Dovonex should not be used if:
- Hypercalcemia occurs when there are high calcium levels in the blood.
- High levels of vitamin D (usually due to taking too many supplements).
Tell your doctor that you receive phototherapy for psoriasis. Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to become pregnant. The topical calcipotriene is not known to pass into breast milk or whether it can harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding. Children should only take this medicine after consulting their physician.
Similar/related drugs
Kenalog, Kenalog-40, Cordran Tape, Halog, Sernivo, Impoyz, and Cloderm
How to take Dovonex?
Keep within the dosage prescribed by your physician and do not go beyond its recommendation. Dose within its intended amount or no more frequently or for extended periods than suggested, to achieve best results. Avoid applying this medicine directly onto wounds which are open, sunburnt skin that has chapped and dry patches as well as those suffering with sunburn, windburn and chapping skin conditions; nor use this product on facial tissue such as lips.
- Dovonex cream or ointment can be applied to the affected skin area. Rub in gently. Apply only to the affected skin area. Do not apply to the surrounding skin.
- Do not wash your hands unless Dovonex is being used to treat psoriasis.
Your symptoms may improve in as little as 2 weeks. Continue to take the medication according to instructions, and inform your doctor if you do not see improvement after 8 weeks.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, apply the missed dose. If it's almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose. Don't use extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
- Do not use other skin medications on areas treated with Dovonex unless you are told to by your doctor.
- Do not let Dovonex get into your eyes. If you do get Dovonex in your eyes, rinse it with water.
- Do not take vitamin or mineral supplements unless you have been told to by your doctor.
- Calcipotriene can cause sunburn. Avoid tanning beds or sunlight. When you're outdoors, wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen (SPF 30) or higher.
- Smoking or going near naked flames is not recommended because the ointment may cause severe burns. Fabrics (clothing, bedding, dressings, etc.) in contact with ointment can burn more easily, posing a fire risk. Although washing clothing and bedding can reduce product buildup, it will not remove it completely.
Side effects of Dovonex
If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or hives, seek emergency medical attention.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using Dovonex immediately and contact your doctor.
- After applying the medication, you may experience severe skin irritation, burning, stinging, or rash.
- Skin conditions are worsening;
- High calcium levels can cause confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Dovonex may cause side effects such as:
- Mild skin irritation;
- Skin rash
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any new medications or if you will stop using any of your current ones.
- Mineral supplements that contain calcium
- Vitamin D or multivitamins
This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products, may interact with calcipotriene topically. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions.
