Dovonex (Calcipotriene)

What is Dovonex?

Dovonex (calcipotriene) is a topical form of vitamin D.

What is Dovonex used for?

Dovonex is indicated for the treatment of long term psoriasis of the scalp.

How does Dovonex work?

Dovonex works by retarding the growth of psoriasis causing skin cells.

How to use Dovonex

Dovonex should be used in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Using it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended may increase side effects.

First, comb your hair to remove any scaly flakes that you may have. Apply the medicine to the affected area on the scalp. Rub gently. The medication (Dovonex) is usually applied twice daily. Make sure that the solution does not spread onto the forehead or any unaffected area. Do not apply it on nose, face, or near eyes. If it gets into these areas, splash water several times.

After applying Dovonex, wash your hands properly. Remember to use it at the same time each day.

Dovonex warnings and precautions

Before using Dovonex, inform your doctor if you are allergic to this medicine, or to any other medication.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (tanning beds or sunlamps) while using Dovonex. It may result in sunburn. Also avoid applying other topical products simultaneously with this medicine.

Do not apply it on dry, chapped, wind-burned, irritated, sunburned skin. Do not wash off the treated area more than three times a day; else the skin may become dry or irritated.

Pregnant and lactating women should not apply the medicine without consulting their doctors in order to avert any possible harm that might be caused after application of this medication.

What do I do if I have missed a Dovonex dose?

If you have missed your Dovonex dose you can apply it as soon as you remember but do not use it if it is time for your next dose. Do not apply it twice or apply it when some other medication has been applied.

What do I do if I have taken a Dovonex overdose?

Dovonex is not expected to cause overdose symptoms. However, if you have used too much of this medicine, you should seek medical attention. If you have ingested the medicine, call your local poison control center.

Dovonex interactions

Before taking Dovonex, inform your doctor about all your prescription and non prescription dosages. Tell him about all the topical treatments that you use on your scalp– creams, hair gels, shampoos, conditioners, etc.

Also, do not start using anything new without consulting your doctor. Even if you have to use a new medicine, call your doctor to check and confirm that the interaction won’t cause any harm to you.

Dovonex side effects

Dovonex side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, breathing difficulty; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat; closing of throat. If you get any of these side effects after using Dovonex, stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor.

You may also experience burning sensation, irritation, redness, itching, stinging, dryness, or peeling while using this medication. These are normal and the impact reduces with time and continuation of the treatment. However, if any of these becomes severe, contact your doctor right away.

Some patients have noticed a change in their skin color. If this happens to you as well, or if it becomes bothersome, call up your doctor without delay.