Daivonex Cream (Calcipotriol) is indicated for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris, when the symptoms range from mild to moderately severe. The active ingredient in this cream is a derivative of vitamin D, and it helps to treat psoriasis by causing a reduction in the amount of skin cells that the body produces.
As a result of this, scaling and plaques present on the skin in patients with psoriasis (which are caused by excessive and rapid skin cell production) are cleared, leading to an overall improvement of the skin and its appearance. Some patients have also used this cream to treat alopecia areata (hair loss that occurs on certain areas of the body, often occurring on the scalp and causing bald spots).
Daivonex Cream (Calcipotriol) is sometimes used on its own (called monotherapy) or else alongside topical corticosteroids. Your doctor will decide which is the most effective treatment method for you. Patients who are undergoing monotherapy are often told by their doctor to apply the cream to the area requiring treatment 1 to 2 times per day.
During the initial treatment period, doctors generally recommend applying it twice per day (once in the morning and again in the night), which may be reduced to one application per day if a positive response is noticed. Most patients show signs of improvement after 4 to 8 weeks of use.
Topical application of Daivonex Cream (Calcipotriol) may cause:
If you notice any signs of side effects, tell your doctor. You will need to consult your doctor as soon as possible if you notice increased blood calcium levels, skin pigmentation changes, skin irritation near the treated area or any other serious side effects.
This cream is not to be applied to the face. Patients are advised to wash the hands after application of the cream, so as to ensure that it is not transferred to the face or any other parts of the body.
Patients with hypercalcaemia or any disorders related to calcium metabolisation should not use this cream.