Betamethasone dipropionate/calcipotriene (On the skin)

Introduction:

Betamethasone Dipropionate (bay-ta-METH-a-sone dye-PROE-pee-oh-nate), Calcipotriene (kal-si-poe-TRYE-een)

Relieves pain, swelling, and itching caused by psoriasis and other skin or scalp diseases. Betamethasone is a steroid. Calcipotriene is a form of vitamin D.

Brand Name(s):

Taclonex, Taclonex Scalp

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Ointment, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is for use on the skin or scalp only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or apply it on your face, under your arms, or on your groin area. Do not use on skin or scalp areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
• If you are using the topical suspension, do not wash your hair right after applying this medicine.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently.
• Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless your doctor has told you to.
• Do not use the topical suspension for more than 8 weeks.
• Shake the topical suspension before use.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using other steroid medicines (such as dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, Medrol®) for your psoriasis.
• Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant. Tell your doctor if you have any type of skin or scalp infection, thin skin at the site to be treated, or if you are getting phototherapy (light treatment) for your psoriasis.
• Using too much of this medicine may cause too much calcium to build up in your body, and may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems.
• Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Gaining weight around your neck, upper back, breast, face, or waist.
• Increased thirst, loss of appetite, weakness, nausea, or vomiting.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Severe itching, rash, or burning of the skin.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Change of color, or swelling of the skin where the medicine is applied.
• Redness, irritation, or thinning of the skin.
• Swollen hair pores.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: