Dosage
Dosage for scalp solution
Calcipotriol scalp solution contains 0.05mg in 1ml.
Do not use more than 60ml (3mg) of calcipotriol scalp solution each week.
If you use the scalp solution together with calcipotriol ointment, do not use more than 5mg in total per week. For example, you could use either:
- 60ml of calcipotriol scalp solution plus 40g of ointment
- 40ml of calcipotriol scalp solution plus 60g of ointment
Dosage for ointment (if used without scalp solution)
The ointment contains 0.05mg in 1g.
The maximum amount to use per week is:
- adults – 100g
- children aged 12 to 17 years – 75g
- children aged 6 to 11 years – 50g
The tubes of ointment come in different sizes. Check the label to see how much ointment your tube contains.
How to use it
Use calcipotriol ointment 1 or 2 times a day, or calcipotriol scalp solution 2 times a day.
If you've been told to use it 2 times a day, try to leave a gap of 8 to 12 hours between using it. Do not use more than the dose recommended by your doctor.
Important: Fire safety
Do not smoke or go near naked flames while using calcipotriol or just after using it. There is a risk of severe burns.
How to use scalp solution
- Tilt your head so the solution does not run on to your face. It may help to part your hair before you use the solution.
- Place the nozzle through your hair onto an affected area of your scalp.
- Squeeze the bottle gently and apply a few drops. 1 or 2 drops should cover an area about the size of a postage stamp.
- Rub in gently.
If you accidently get the solution on your face, wash it off straight away.
Always wash your hands after using the scalp solution.
How to use ointment
Put the ointment on the areas of skin where you have psoriasis. You can squeeze the ointment straight onto your skin, or put it on your finger first if you prefer.
Put the ointment on thickly (but be careful not to go over the recommended dose), then rub it in gently to cover the psoriasis.
Always wash your hands after using the ointment. If you're using it to treat your hands, only wash the skin that is not affected.
If you're using other medicines or moisturisers on the same area of skin, it's best to leave 30 minutes between applying each product to allow them time to be absorbed and avoid them mixing on the skin.
How long to use it for
Your doctor will tell you how long to use calcipotriol for. It's important to keep using it until the psoriasis plaques are clear or nearly clear.
Once your skin is better your doctor will usually recommend that you stop using calcipotriol. Using it after your skin has healed will increase the risk of serious side effects such as high calcium levels in your body.
Psoriasis can sometimes come back after you stop treatment. You can use calcipotriol again to keep your psoriasis under control.
If you forget to use it
If you forget to use calcipotriol, use it as soon as you remember, unless it's less than 8 hours until your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and use the next dose at the usual time.
If you use too much
If you use more than your prescribed dose of calcipotriol repeatedly, you may get too much calcium in your blood. Your doctor may tell you to stop using your medicine until the amount of calcium in your blood goes back to normal.
Contact your GP or pharmacist if you need advice.