Information provided by Healthline.com

betamethasone and calcipotriene (topical) Health Article

Licensed from Print
Table of Contents
Doctor-reviewed Information, Multum Drug Directory, 2006
Page: 1 2 3 Next >
Generic name(s):

betamethasone and calcipotriene (topical)

Brand name(s):

betamethasone-calcipotriene topical, Taclonex

What is the most important information I should know about betamethasone and calcipotriene?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger doses or for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Before using betamethasone and calcipotriene, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you 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.

There may be other drugs that can affect betamethasone and calcipotriene. 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.

Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you think you have used too much medicine, or if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or is especially bothersome.

What is betamethasone and calcipotriene?

Betamethasone is a topical corticosteroid. It reduces swelling, relieves itching, and constricts blood vessels.

Calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D. It works by decreasing the rate of skin cell reproduction.

Betamethasone and calcipotriene is a combination drug used to treat psoriasis vulgaris.

Betamethasone and calcipotriene may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using betamethasone and calcipotriene?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

  • low or high levels of calcium in your blood;

  • severe forms of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness); or

  • a skin infection.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use betamethasone and calcipotriene, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

Tell your doctor if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.

FDA pregnancy category C: This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. It is not known if betamethasone and calcipotriene pass into breast milk or if this medicine could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Betamethasone and calcipotriene 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. This medicine should not be used on a child.
Page: 1 2 3 Next >

advertisement

Back to Top Print

Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our Terms and Conditions of Use and Privacy Policy.