Brand Names: Vectical

Generic Name: calcitriol (topical) (Pronunciation: kal SIT ree ol TOP ik al)

• What is calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• What are the possible side effects of calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• How should I use calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Vectical Ointment)?
• What happens if I overdose (Vectical Ointment)?
• What should I avoid while using calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• What other drugs will affect calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?

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

Calcitriol topical (for the skin) is used to treat plaque psoriasis (raised, silvery flaking of the skin) in adults.

Calcitriol topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

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

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 high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of this condition include nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Less serious side effects may include mild itching or skin discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Vectical Ointment (calcitriol ointment) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about calcitriol topical (Vectical Ointment)?

You should not use this medication if you have a severe form of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).

Before using calcitriol topical, tell your doctor if you have low or high levels of calcium in your blood, a calcium disorder or metabolic imbalance, or if you are receiving UV light treatments (phototherapy) for your psoriasis.

Also tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using to treat psoriasis. Also tell your doctor if you are taking a diuretic (water pill) or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain calcium or vitamin D.

Calcitriol topical is for use only on areas of psoriasis. Avoid getting it on healthy skin areas. Calcitriol topical should not be applied to the face or the vaginal area.

Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as blistering or severe redness, itching, or other irritation of treated skin.

Using calcitriol topical can affect your body's ability to metabolize calcium. This can result in high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia). Symptoms of this condition include nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, increased thirst and urination, muscle weakness, confusion, and feeling tired or restless. Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.