Indications
Dovobet gel is a medication used to treat psoriasis, specifically plaque psoriasis. It contains a combination of two active ingredients - calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate. By combining these two active ingredients, Dovobet Gel delivers a dual action approach to treat psoriasis and scalp psoriasis, and can help to reduce symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling.
Betamethasone is a type of corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the skin. It works by suppressing the immune response that causes inflammation in the affected area, thereby reducing redness, itching, and swelling.
Calcipotriol is a synthetic form of vitamin D that helps slow down the rate of skin cell growth. In people with psoriasis, the skin cells grow too quickly, resulting in thick, scaly patches. Calcipotriol helps to normalize the growth and development of skin cells, leading to a reduction in the formation of scaly patches.
Use and Dosage
Dovobet gel is usually applied once daily to affected areas for a recommended treatment period of 4 to 8 weeks.
Here is the general procedure for using Dovobet Gel:
- Wash your hands before and after applying the gel.
- Tilt your head to make sure the gel does not run onto your face
- It may help to part your hair before you use Dovobet Gel.
- Apply a small amount of Dovobet Gel to the affected area
- Gently rub the gel into your scalp or skin until it disappears.
- Wash your hands after applying the gel.
Do not bandage, wrap, or cover the treated area unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Do not apply Dovobet Gel to large areas of damaged skin or use it in skin folds. Do not apply more of Dovobet Gel than prescribed or use it more often or for longer than directed. Doing so may increase the amount of medication absorbed into your bloodstream, increasing your risk of side effects.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. It may take a week to see any improvement and several weeks to see the full benefit of Dovobet Gel.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Dovobet Gel (Calcipotriene/Betamethasone Dipropionate):
- Burning
- Dryness
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Irritation
- Itching
- Peeling
- Redness of skin
Serious Side Effects of Dovobet Gel (Calcipotriene/Betamethasone Dipropionate):
- Acne or oily skin
- Burning and itching of skin with pinhead-sized red blisters
- Constipation
- Delayed healing of skin wounds
- Depression
- Eye irritation
- Fatigue
- Fruity breath odor
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Infections
- Irritation of skin around the mouth
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Poor wound healing
- Reddish-purple lines (stretch marks)
- Skin color changes)
- Skin infection
- Skin rash
- Thinning or softening of skin
- Unusual bruising or skin discoloration
- Urination
- Vomiting
- Worsening of psoriasis
Forms and Strength
Dovobet Gel (Calcipotriene/Betamethasone Dipropionate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Dovobet Gel: Gel
- 0.005/0.05%
Cautions
- Dovobet Gel should not be used for more than four weeks on the scalp, or eight weeks on other parts of the body, without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Do not use Dovobet Gel on your face, groin, or armpits, or on broken or infected skin.
- Dovobet Gel should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems.
- Do not use Dovobet Gel if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional.
- Dovobet Gel may cause skin irritation, such as itching, burning or redness. If this occurs, stop using the gel and contact your healthcare professional.
- Avoid getting Dovobet Gel in your eyes or mouth. If this occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Dovobet Gel should be stored out of reach of children.
- Dovobet Gel may increase the risk of developing skin infections, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of skin infections.
- Do not use Dovobet Gel on skin that is thin or easily damaged, such as on the face or around the eyes.
- If you experience any allergic reactions while using Dovobet Gel, such as rash or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
- Dovobet Gel should not be used together with other topical medications containing corticosteroids, unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional.
- Long-term use of Dovobet Gel may increase the risk of developing side effects, including skin thinning, stretch marks, and adrenal gland problems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Dovobet Gel work?
Dovobet Gel contains two active ingredients, calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate. Calcipotriol reduces the rate of skin cell production and inflammation, while betamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness.
Can Dovobet Gel be used to treat other skin conditions?
No, Dovobet Gel is specifically intended to treat plaque psoriasis and should not be used to treat other skin conditions.
Can anyone use Dovobet Gel?
Dovobet Gel is only available with a prescription from a healthcare provider, who will determine whether it is suitable for an individual based on their medical history and current medications.
Can I apply Dovobet Gel more than once a day?
No, Dovobet Gel should be applied only once a day. Using it more often than prescribed may increase the risk of side effects.
When should I seek medical attention while using Dovobet Gel?
You should seek medical attention if you experience any signs of allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/betamethasone-and-calcipotriene-topical.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-95232-3333/calcipotriene-betamethasone-topical/betamethasone-calcipotriene-calcipotriol-topical/details
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/dovobet.html
- http://www.leo-pharma.ca/Files/Filer/LEO_local_downloads/LEO-Pharma.ca/Dovobet%20gel%20PM%20(2.0)%2008-Feb-2013.pdf
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/dovobet
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