Dovobet Ointment (Calcipotriene/Betamethasone Dipropionate)

Indications

Dovobet Ointment is a topical medication used on the skin to treat plaque psoriasis in adults. It helps to reduce the redness, thickening, and scaling of the skin that occurs with this condition. Healthy skin lowers your risk for infection and protects you against the environment.

Dovobet Ointment works by combining two active ingredients: betamethasone and calcipotriol. Betamethasone is a steroid that reduces inflammation on the skin, while calcipotriol is a derivative of vitamin D that slows down the production of skin cells. When used together, these ingredients help to reduce the redness, scaling, and thickness associated with psoriasis.

Use and Dosage

Dovobet Ointment is applied directly to the affected area of the skin twice daily. To properly use Dovobet Ointment, only apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily, and gently rub it in completely. After use, wash your hands unless the medication is being used to treat the hands.

Avoid getting any medication in the eyes or mouth, and do not apply it to the face, underarms, or groin area. Additionally, do not use Dovobet Ointment for longer than directed, which is up to 4 weeks if using the ointment or foam (or 8 weeks if using the cream), unless directed by your doctor. To minimize the risk of side effects, adults should not use more than 100 grams of ointment per week, and children and teenagers should use no more than 60 grams of the ointment per week.

Use Dovobet Ointment exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply more than one dose on any given day. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Dovobet Ointment (Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Dipropionate):

• Burning sensation of the skin
• Burning, dryness, irritation, peeling, or redness of skin
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Itching
• Rash
• Skin atrophy
• Skin pain or irritation

Serious Side Effects of Dovobet Ointment (Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Dipropionate):

• Acne or oily skin
• Burning and itching of skin with pinhead-sized red blisters
• Delayed healing of skin wounds
• Eye irritation
• Flushing
• Folliculitis (tiny skin rashes with pimply appearance around the hair roots)
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Skin infection
• Skin rash
• Symptoms of high blood calcium levels (e.g., constipation, depression, fatigue, loss of appetite, mental confusion, nausea, vomiting)
• Symptoms of high blood sugar (e.g., frequent urination, increased thirst, excessive eating, unexplained weight loss, poor wound healing, infections, fruity breath odour)
• Symptoms of high levels of corticosteroids in the blood stream (e.g., fatigue, increased thirst and urination, irritability, muscle weakness)
• Symptoms of long-term use of corticosteroids (e.g., thinning or softening of skin, unusual bruising, or skin discolora symptoms of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, dizziness, itching, rash, swelling)
• Symptoms of pustular psoriasis (e.g., chills, feeling unwell, fever, headache, muscle pain, loss of appetite, nausea)
• Irritation of skin around the mouth, reddish-purple lines (stretch marks), or skin color changes)
• Worsening of psoriasis

Forms and Strength

Dovobet Ointment (Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Dipropionate) is available in the following forms and strength:

Dovobet Ointment: Ointment

• 0.005/0.05%

Cautions

• Avoid using the medication on the face or in the genital area.
• Do not use Dovobet ointment on broken or infected skin.
• Use caution when applying the ointment to areas with thin skin (such as the armpits or groin), as this may increase the risk of side effects from the medication.
• Avoid using the medication for longer than directed by your doctor, as prolonged use may increase the risk of side effects.
• Dovobet ointment may interact with other medications, so be sure to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before starting treatment with Dovobet ointment.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to their doctor before using Dovobet ointment.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds while using Dovobet ointment, as the medication may increase the skin's sensitivity to these sources of light.
• Do not use Dovobet ointment if you have a history of an allergic reaction to calcipotriol, betamethasone dipropionate, or any other medication in the corticosteroid family.
• Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions (such as diabetes or a weakened immune system) before using Dovobet ointment.
• Side effects from using Dovobet ointment may include skin irritation, burning, or itching. If these side effects become severe or persistent, contact your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if I miss a dose of Dovobet Ointment?

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. Then continue with your regular schedule.

Can Dovobet Ointment be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

You should consult with your doctor before using Dovobet Ointment during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How long should I use Dovobet Ointment for?

You should use Dovobet Ointment for as long as your doctor recommends. Do not use it for longer periods of time unless instructed to do so by your doctor.

Is Dovobet Ointment available over the counter?

No, Dovobet Ointment is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Resources

• https://dermnetnz.org/topics/calcipotriolbetamethasone-dipropionate-foam
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-95232-3333/calcipotriene-betamethasone-topical/betamethasone-calcipotriene-calcipotriol-topical/details
• https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/betamethasone-skin/
• https://dermnetnz.org/topics/calcipotriolbetamethasone-dipropionate-ointment-and-gel
• https://www.drugs.com/cons/dovobet.html
• https://www.oxfordonlinepharmacy.co.uk/psoriasis/dovobet-ointment-30g
• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/dovobet