Dovonex Ointment Description

Dovonex Ointment is a form of synthetic Vitamin D3 that is prescribed in the treatment of plaque psoriasis. This topical antipsoriatic medication contains Calcipotriol as the active ingredient. Calcipotriene (Calcipotriol) is not a cure for psoriasis, but it can work effectively to help flatten and clear the plaques so the itching and redness will be greatly reduced. Be patient with the use of Calcipotriene (Calcipotriol) as it can take several weeks before you notice an improvement in your skin.

How Dovonex Ointment Works for Psoriasis

Those red, itchy patches of psoriasis can cause discomfort or even make you self-conscious when the patches are visible to others. The reason for these raised patches of scaly, thick skin is due to an over-production of skin cells resulting from a misguided immune response. New skin cells are surfacing too quickly while the old cells become bunched up underneath. When applied as directed, Dovonex Ointment works by decreases the skin cell production to give old cells a chance to slough off so the itchy patches of psoriasis will flatten out as the skin cell cycle resumes normally.

Conditions Treated by Dovonex Ointment

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system that changes the life cycle of skin cells. Usually something will trigger an immune response which, in this case, affects the acceleration of your skin cell turnover. Most skin cells will divide and replace themselves every 28-30 days. This subtle process is a constant out with the old cells and in with the new. Those with psoriasis have an accelerated skin cell reproduction that causes an accumulation of skin cells that have not sloughed off resulting in raised, scaly patches of skin.

Before You Apply Dovonex Ointment

Ask your doctor about any risks of using Dovonex Ointment while you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. To determine if Dovonex Ointment is safe for you, explain other medical conditions and allergies to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx medications you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Dovonex Ointment Precautions

Dovonex Ointment is to be used topically only, as directed by your doctor. Dovonex Ointment should not be used on sunburned or broken skin. You should not use Dovonex Ointment if you have high levels of calcium in your blood. Using too much Dovonex Ointment or for longer than prescribed may increase your chance of developing side effects.

Possible Side Effects of Dovonex Ointment

• Redness
• Swelling
• Peeling
• Worsening of psoriasis

Drugs Similar to Dovonex Ointment

• Tazorac Gel
• Vectical Ointment
• Differin Gel