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Vectical

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Psoriasis is a noncontagious skin condition that produces red, dry plaques of thickened skin. The dry flakes and skin scales are thought to result from the rapid proliferation of skin cells that is triggered by abnormal lymphocytes from the blood . Psoriasis commonly affects the skin of the elbows, knees, and scalp.

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Vectical Ointment

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VECTICAL
(calcitriol) Ointment 3 mcg/g

For topical use only

DRUG DESCRIPTION

VECTICAL (calcitriol) Ointment 3 mcg/g is a vitamin D analog intended for topical application to the skin. The chemical name of the active ingredient is (5Z,7E)-9,10­ secocholesta-5,7,10(19)-triene-α,3β,25-triol. The structural formula is:

VECTICAL (calcitriol) Structural Formula Illustration

Calcitriol is a white or almost white crystalline solid. It is practically insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and in fatty oils. The molecular formula is C27H44O3, and the molecular weight is 416.64.

VECTICAL (calcitriol ointment) Ointment is a translucent ointment containing 3 mcg/g (0.0003% w/w) of calcitriol, packaged in aluminum tubes with screw caps. Other components of the ointment are mineral oil, dl-α-tocopherol, and white petrolatum.

What are the possible side effects of calcitriol topical (Vectical)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using calcitriol topical and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • blistering, or severe redness, itching, or other irritation of treated areas; or
  • worsened symptoms or no improvement in psoriasis.

Using calcitriol topical can affect your body's ability to metabolize calcium. This can result in...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Vectical Ointment »

What are the precautions when taking calcitriol ointment (Vectical Ointment)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: high calcium/vitamin D levels (hypercalcemia/hypervitaminosis D), kidney disease, liver disease.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Your doctor may direct you to limit or avoid phototherapy while you use this medication. Discuss this further with your doctor.

During...

Read All Potential Precautions of Vectical Ointment »

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/10/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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