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Calcipotriol: uses, side effects & brands
Calcipotriol is a vitamin-D cream for plaque psoriasis. It belongs to the Skin (dermatology) medicine — advanced group. These treat eczema, psoriasis, acne, pigmentation and fungal skin problems, mostly applied to the skin.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Skin (dermatology) medicine — advanced |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Treats plaque psoriasis on the body
- Scalp form treats scalp psoriasis
- Often combined with a steroid for faster results
Common brand names
- India: Daivonex, Psorid-C, Calcigen
- Worldwide: Dovonex, Daivonex
Common side effects
- Skin irritation, burning or redness
- Itching
- Dry or peeling skin
- Worsening of psoriasis at first in some people
Before taking it — precautions
- Avoid on the face and wash hands after applying
- Do not use over large areas, as too much can raise blood calcium
- Tell your doctor about kidney disease or calcium problems, pregnancy or breastfeeding
When to see a doctor urgently
- Excessive thirst, confusion, weakness or constipation, possibly from high calcium (urgent)
- Severe skin irritation or rash spreading
- Allergic swelling (urgent)
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of calcipotriol depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Is calcipotriol a steroid?
No. It is a vitamin-D-like medicine, though it is sometimes combined with a steroid.
Can I use it on my face?
It is usually avoided on the face because it can irritate the skin.
How long before I see results?
Improvement is often seen within a few weeks of regular use.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.