Generic Name: calcitriol (topical) (kal SIT ree ol TOP ik al)
Brand Names: Vectical
What is calcitriol topical?
Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D. It works by decreasing the rate of skin cell reproduction.
Calcitriol topical (for the skin) is used to treat plaque psoriasis (raised, silvery flaking of the skin) in adults.
Calcitriol topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol topical?
You should not use this medication if you have a severe form of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).
Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you have low or high levels of calcium in your blood, a calcium disorder or metabolic imbalance, or if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.
Also tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using to treat psoriasis. Also tell your doctor if you are taking a diuretic (water pill) or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain calcium or vitamin D.
Calcitriol topical is for use only on areas of psoriasis. Avoid getting it on healthy skin areas. Calcitriol topical should not be applied to the face or the vaginal area.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as blistering or severe redness, itching, or other irritation of treated skin. Using calcitriol topical can affect your body's ability to metabolize calcium. This can result in high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of this condition include nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, increased thirst and urination, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using calcitriol topical?
You should not use this medication if you have a severe form of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
low or high levels of calcium in your blood;
a calcium disorder or metabolic imbalance; or
if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known if calcitriol topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication on anyone younger than 18 years old, even if they have the same symptoms or psoriasis that you have.
How should I use calcitriol topical?
Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Calcitriol topical is usually applied once in the morning and once in the evening. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.
Apply a thin layer of the medication and rub it in completely.
Calcitriol topical is for use only on areas of psoriasis. Avoid getting it on healthy skin areas.
Calcitriol topical should not be applied to the face or the vaginal area. Do not cover treated skin areas unless your doctor has told you to. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the medicine to freeze.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, weakness, or confusion.
What should I avoid while using calcitriol topical?
Avoid exposing treated skin areas to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Calcitriol topical can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mouth, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, rinse with water.
Calcitriol topical side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using calcitriol topical and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
blistering, or severe redness, itching, or other irritation of treated areas; or
worsened symptoms or no improvement in psoriasis.
Using calcitriol topical can affect your body's ability to metabolize calcium. This can result in high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of this condition include nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.
Less serious side effects may include mild itching or skin discomfort.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Calcitriol Dosing Information
Usual Adult Dose for Psoriasis:
Apply to affected areas twice daily, morning and evening.
The maximum weekly dose should not exceed 200 grams.
What other drugs will affect calcitriol topical?
Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you are also using:
other medicines to treat psoriasis;
vitamin or mineral supplements that contain calcium or vitamin D; or
a diuretic (water pill) such as chlorothiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Hyzaar, Lopressor, Vasoretic, Zestoretic), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), indapamide (Lozol), metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn), and others.
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with calcitriol topical. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
More calcitriol resources
- Calcitriol Dosage
- Calcitriol Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Calcitriol Drug Interactions
- Calcitriol Support Group
- 2 Reviews for Calcitriol - Add your own review/rating
- Vectical Prescribing Information (FDA)
- Vectical Ointment MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)
- Vectical Consumer Overview
Compare calcitriol with other medications
- Psoriasis
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has more information about calcitriol topical.
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