Calcipoheal Cream is an effective topical medication widely used to treat mild to moderate psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by the overgrowth of skin cells and their accumulation in thick, scaly, reddened plaques. This therapeutic cream belongs to a class of medications known as vitamin D analogues, which work directly on the affected skin to help relieve symptoms and reduce the visible signs of psoriasis. Calcipoheal is an important treatment option for patients with localized psoriasis plaques, providing relief from itching, inflammation, and scaling, contributing to an improved quality of life.
The active ingredient in Calcipoheal Cream
Calcipoheal Cream contains the following active ingredient:
Calcipotriol: A synthetic derivative of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Calcipotriol has a similar chemical structure to vitamin D, giving it the ability to bind to vitamin D receptors on skin cells. By binding to these receptors, calcipotriol regulates the growth and reproduction of keratinocytes, the cells that make up the outer layer of skin. In psoriasis, there is an overproduction of these cells, leading to the appearance of thick, scaly plaques. Calcipotriol slows this overgrowth of skin cells, helping to reduce the thickness and scalyness of the plaques. In addition, calcipotriol has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve the redness and swelling associated with psoriasis.
Available Concentrations
Calcipoheal cream is typically available in one concentration of the active ingredient to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the treatment:
50 micrograms/gram (0.005%) of calcipotriol: This is the standard concentration of Calcipoheal cream used to treat topical psoriasis in adults. The concentration is measured by the amount of calcipotriol present per gram of cream.
Indications for Use of Calcipoheal Cream
Calcipoheal Cream is primarily used to treat:
Plaque psoriasis: This is the most common type of psoriasis, appearing as raised, thick, red patches covered with silvery or white scales. These plaques can appear on any part of the body, but are particularly common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Calcipoheal Cream reduces the thickness, scaling, and associated inflammation of these plaques, helping to improve the appearance of the skin and relieve uncomfortable symptoms such as itching and pain.
Drug Interactions of Calcipoheal Cream
Calcipotriol is a topical medication, and therefore its systemic absorption (entry into the bloodstream in significant quantities) is usually minimal. As a result, the likelihood of it interacting with other oral or injected medications is very low. However, patients should always inform their doctor if they are using any other skin preparations on the same affected area to avoid any potential topical interactions or reduced effectiveness of a preparation. In general, Calcipoheal cream is safe to use with most other medications, but caution is advised when using it with other topical psoriasis treatments to avoid excessive skin irritation.
Calcipoheal Cream Storage Conditions
To ensure the quality and effectiveness of Calcipoheal cream, it should be stored under appropriate conditions. It is recommended to store it at room temperature, typically between 15 and 25°C (59 to 77°F), away from direct heat, high humidity, and bright light.
The tube or container should be kept tightly closed and out of the reach of children and pets. Do not freeze the cream. Check the expiration date before use, and dispose of any expired cream properly according to local guidelines.