Tacalcitol
Tacalcitol is a synthetic vitamin D3 analogue. It is used in the treatment of psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, itchy, and scaly patches. Tacalcitol is marketed under several brand names worldwide, including Curatoderm and Bonalfa.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Tacalcitol works by binding to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in the skin. This binding activates the receptor, which then regulates the growth and differentiation of skin cells. In psoriasis, the growth of skin cells is abnormally fast, leading to the formation of thick, scaly patches. By slowing down this growth, tacalcitol helps to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis.
Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]
After topical application, tacalcitol is absorbed into the skin. The extent of systemic absorption is low, which minimizes the risk of systemic side effects. Tacalcitol is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the feces.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
The most common side effects of tacalcitol are skin-related, such as itching, burning, and redness. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. Less common side effects include skin discoloration and increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Contraindications[edit | edit source]
Tacalcitol should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with hypercalcemia or evidence of vitamin D toxicity.
Interactions[edit | edit source]
Tacalcitol may interact with other drugs that affect calcium metabolism, such as thiazide diuretics and vitamin D supplements. These interactions can increase the risk of hypercalcemia.
Dosage and Administration[edit | edit source]
Tacalcitol is applied topically once daily. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerance. Treatment should be continued as long as necessary to control the symptoms of psoriasis.
See Also[edit | edit source]
 | This pharmacology-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it. |
This Vitamin D related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.
This psoriasis-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
