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General Medication Fact Sheet for Vectical Ointment
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Vectical Ointment |
| Generic Name | Calcitriol |
| Purpose | Treatment of plaque psoriasis |
| Mechanism of Action | A synthetic vitamin D3 analog that regulates cell proliferation and differentiation |
| Dosage Forms | Topical ointment |
| Available Strengths | 3 mcg/g (0.0003%) |
| Dosage Frequency | Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily |
| Common Side Effects | Skin burning, itching, irritation, dryness, redness |
| Serious Side Effects | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), allergic reactions |
| Drug Interactions | Thiazide diuretics, calcium supplements, other vitamin D analogs |
| Important Notes | Avoid excessive sun exposure; do not use with occlusive dressings unless directed by a physician; monitor calcium levels with prolonged use. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from heat and direct light |
| Missed Dose | Apply as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next application time, skip the missed application and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply extra ointment to make up for a missed dose. |
| Alternatives | Dovonex (calcipotriene), Tazorac (tazarotene), Corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone) |
Vectical Ointment Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dovonex (calcipotriene) | Vitamin D3 analog; inhibits keratinocyte proliferation | Also a topical vitamin D analog, often used in combination with corticosteroids. |
| Tazorac (tazarotene) | Topical retinoid; modulates cell differentiation and proliferation | A topical retinoid; can be irritating to the skin. |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone) | Anti-inflammatory; reduces inflammation and immune response | Available in various potencies; long-term use can lead to side effects. |
Vectical Ointment Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Skin burning | Hypercalcemia (high calcium levels) |
| Itching | Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Irritation | Worsening of psoriasis |
| Dryness | Skin atrophy (thinning of the skin) with prolonged use |
Vectical Ointment Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plaque Psoriasis | Apply thin layer twice daily | Apply thin layer twice daily | Apply to affected areas only. Do not cover with bandages unless directed by a physician. |
