From the Guidelines
Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 derivative medication primarily used to treat plaque psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. It works by slowing down the excessive growth of skin cells that causes psoriasis and helps normalize skin cell production 1. Calcipotriene is typically available as a topical cream, ointment, solution, or foam in a 0.005% concentration. The medication is usually applied to affected skin areas once or twice daily, and improvement is generally seen within 1-2 weeks, with maximum benefit after about 8 weeks of treatment 1. Some key points to consider when using calcipotriene include:
- Avoid applying it to the face, eyes, lips, or skin folds, as it may cause irritation
- The medication should be used only on affected areas
- Hands should be washed after application
- Side effects may include burning, stinging, or skin irritation at the application site
- Calcipotriene works by binding to vitamin D receptors in skin cells, which helps regulate cell growth and differentiation, ultimately reducing the inflammation and excessive skin cell production associated with psoriasis 1. In terms of efficacy, calcipotriene has been shown to be effective in achieving an Investigator’s Static Global Assessment score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) in patients with scalp psoriasis 1. Additionally, the use of calcipotriene in combination with hydrocortisone has been found to be efficacious for the treatment of facial psoriasis 1. Overall, calcipotriene is a valuable treatment option for patients with plaque psoriasis, and its use can be tailored to individual patient needs and response to treatment 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Calcipotriene Ointment USP, 0.005% contains the compound calcipotriene, USP a synthetic vitamin D3 derivative for topical dermatological use. Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 derivative for topical dermatological use.
- It is used for the treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults 2.
- Chemically, calcipotriene is 24-cyclopropyl-(1α,3β,5Z,7E,22E,24S)-9,10-Secochola-5,7,10(19),22-tetraene-1,3,24-trioI; with the empirical formula C27H40O3, a molecular weight of 412.62 2.
From the Research
Definition and Mechanism of Action
- Calcipotriene is a vitamin D3 analogue that inhibits epidermal cell proliferation in vitro 3
- Its mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to be effective due to its anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory properties 4
Uses and Efficacy
- Calcipotriene is used for the treatment of plaque-type psoriasis, particularly for mild to moderate cases 5, 6, 3
- It is available in various formulations, including ointment, solution, cream, and foam 5
- Calcipotriene has been shown to be effective in reducing redness, scaling, and thickness of psoriatic plaques 6, 3
- It is comparable to mid-potency topical corticosteroids in efficacy, but does not cause skin atrophy and apparently does not lead to tachyphylaxis 3
Safety and Side Effects
- Calcipotriene is generally safe and well-tolerated, with minor treatment-related adverse events reported 6, 3
- Irritant dermatitis is a common side effect, especially when applied to the face 3
- Alterations in calcium metabolism have been reported to occur with use of calcipotriene, and careful patient monitoring is recommended 3
- The overall incidence of adverse events with calcipotriene foam is similar to that of vehicle foam 5
Combination Therapy
- Calcipotriene can be used in combination with systemic therapies, such as acitretin/etretinate, cyclosporine, methotrexate, or phototherapy, to enhance efficacy and improve the risk/benefit ratio 7
- Combination therapy with calcipotriene ointment and systemic agents can decrease exposure to potentially hazardous systemic agents 7