Calcipotriene
Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 analogue used primarily to treat plaque psoriasis. When combined with betamethasone dipropionate (a corticosteroid), it provides anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects to reduce psoriasis symptoms. This combination medication is applied topically and is prescribed for adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
Calcipotriene is a topical psoriasis treatment that works as a vitamin D3 analog to slow skin cell growth and reduce scaling.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D05AX02
- RxNorm
- 29365
- Generic
- Calcipotriene
- Class
- atc-d05
- Brands
- Calcitrene, Sorilux, Enstilar, Dovonex, Wynzora, Pellix, Taclonex
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- ointment, cream, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective dose
avoid use during first trimester unless benefits outweigh risks
regular prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only if benefits outweigh potential risks
routine prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
avoid extensive body surface area application
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedinguse smallest effective amount
avoid applying to breast area or use alternate feeding method
monitor infant for hypercalcemia symptoms
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children under 12not recommended
not recommended for children under 12 years due to limited safety data
close monitoring if used
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
adolescents 12 18use with caution
may be used with caution in adolescents with careful monitoring
monitor for adverse effects
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed
safe for use in elderly patients with normal renal and hepatic function
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severeno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required but monitor closely
monitor renal function
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no dosage adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
severeno adjustment needed
use with caution and monitor
monitor hepatic function
Statistics and clinical data
First FDA approval
Initial FDA approval year for calcipotriene topical solution (Dovonex)
Drug class
ATC classification: L04AD02 (Immunosuppressants)
Primary indication
Topical treatment for plaque psoriasis vulgaris
Mechanism of action
Binds to vitamin D receptors to regulate skin cell proliferation and differentiation
Treats plaque psoriasis vulgaris in adults, particularly effective for scalp and body plaques when combined with betamethasone dipropionate ointment or suspension.
Calcipotriene binds to vitamin D receptors in skin cells, regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. When combined with betamethasone, it provides complementary anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects that reduce redness, scaling, and itching associated with psoriasis.
For topical use only; avoid contact with face, eyes, and mucous membranes. Not recommended for long-term continuous use due to corticosteroid component. May cause local irritation; use with caution in patients with hypercalcemia or impaired calcium metabolism. Pregnancy category C.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy