Introduction
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is an orally administered medication combination which is used as topical therapy of psoriasis. Betamethasone is a type of steroid medication and is a glucocorticoid. Calcipotriol is a synthetic Vitamin D3. Both the components are important for treating skin conditions like psoriasis.
Uses for
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is a medication combination used to treat psoriasis and other skin related disorders. It helps reduce inflammation, skin redness and itching and also eliminates the growth of scales around the affected area.
Mechanism of Action
Betamethasone exerts its anti-inflammatory action by preventing the release of inflammatory mediators. It interferes with the activity of multiple cell types in the immune system, thereby suppressing the inflammatory response. Calcipotriol works by inhibiting keratinocyte proliferation, which reduces the production of skin cells. It also reduces the scaling around the affected areas caused by inflammation.
How long does it take to work?
When used as directed, Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should take affect relatively quickly. Results can typically be seen within four weeks of use. It should be noted that it may take longer for the treatment to be fully effective.
Absorption
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is rapidly absorbed through the skin when applied topically. It is mostly metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine and feces.
Route of Elimination
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is mostly metabolized in the liver and excreted via the urine and feces.
Dosage
Topical Ointment: This Ointment is indicated for topical use only. The phototoxic effects have not been studied in psoriasis patients. All psoriasis-affected areas treated with this Ointment should be, where possible, protected from direct sunlight and UV-light with items of clothing.- Adults: This ointment should be applied topically to the affected area once daily. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 15 gm. The maximum recommended weekly dose of ointment is 100 gm/week. The treated area should not be more than 30% of the body surface. The use of this ointment should be intermittent for up to one year under close medical supervision. Treatment should be limited to four week periods with Calcipotriol used alone for one month between periods of use of this ointment as needed.
- Children: This ointment is not recommended for use in children and adolescents below the age of 18 years.
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is available as a topical formulation in the form of a cream, gel, or ointment. The recommended dose for adults is 1 to 2 grams of the medication to be applied to the affected area once daily.
Administration
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should be applied directly to clean and dry skin. The affected area should be thoroughly washed with water and pat dry with a clean cloth before application. The medication should be applied 1- 2 g on the affected area once daily. It should be applied in a thin layer, gently massaged, and left to air-dry before covering it with clothing.
Side Effect
Common side effects of Betamethasone + Calcipotriol include stinging, burning, redness, itching, irritation, and dryness of the skin. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to contact a doctor immediately.
Toxicity
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is generally safe for topical use, however, it can cause harmful side effects. Cases of overdose need to be reported to the doctor as soon as all the symptoms appear.
Precaution
Patients using Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should follow the doctor's instructions carefully. The medication should not be applied on open wounds, or used for longer than recommended period of time. It is not recommended for use in children unless prescribed by the doctor. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use the medication only if the doctor has prescribed.
Interaction
Patients on Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should inform their doctor about all the other medications they are taking or discontinue any new medication without informing the doctor. This medication may interact with some other medications such as antifungal medications, mineral supplements, and other topical medications.
Disease Interaction
Patients on Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should inform their doctor about any existing medical conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney diseases. The medication can have some serious side effects in these patients, and the doctor should adjust the dosage accordingly.
Drug Interaction
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should not be used in combination with other medications such as antifungal medications, mineral supplements, and other topical medications. If the patient is already taking any of these medications, they should inform their doctor before using Betamethasone + Calcipotriol.
Food Interactions
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is not known to interact with any food items. However, patients should consult their doctor about any special dietary restrictions that may be necessary during the course of treatment.
Pregnancy Use
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should be used with caution in pregnant women. It should be used only if prescribed by the doctor. The use of Betamethasone + Calcipotriol in pregnant women may lead to serious side effects like birth defects.
Lactation Use
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should be used with caution in breastfeeding women. It is not recommended to use this medication without consulting the doctor. The medication may pass into breast milk and cause serious side effects in the baby.
Acute Overdose
Acute overdoses with Betamethasone + Calcipotriol can cause 9symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and fever. In case of an overdose, a doctor should be consulted immediately for treatment.
Contraindication
Patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to Betamethasone + Calcipotriol or any of its components should not use this medication. Usage of this medication in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women should only be done after consultation with a doctor. It is advised to not use this medication if the patient suffers from cutaneous Tuberculosis or other cutaneous infections.
Use Directions
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should be applied topically after consulting the physician. The mixture should be applied to clean and dry skin. The dosage should be as prescribed by the doctor and should be applied once daily, in a thin layer over the affected area. The medication may be covered with a clean cloth as per the doctor's instructions.
Storage Condition
Betamethasone + Calcipotriol should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct light and moisture. The storage temperature should not exceed 25°C. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is not known. However, it should not be used in large quantities as an overdose may occur.
Half Life
The elimination half life of Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is not known in humans.
Clearance
The clearance of Betamethasone + Calcipotriol is not known. However, it is expected to be cleared from the body in less than 24 hours as most of the compounds are metabolized in the liver and excreted via the urine and feces.
