What to expect from vitamin D analogue treatment for psoriasis

Psoriasis causes areas of skin to build up and become inflamed. A vitamin D analogue applied to affected plaques helps regulate the activity and growth of skin cells. It is usually intended for plaques rather than large areas of unaffected skin, and it may be used alone or alongside another prescribed treatment. The treated area can become irritated, itchy, or red, especially if product spreads onto surrounding skin.

Apply the prescribed amount to the plaques and wash your hands afterwards, unless your hands are the treatment area. Avoid the eyes, face, skin folds, and broken skin unless your clinician specifically directs otherwise. Do not use more often or over a wider area to speed results. Keep follow-up appointments, particularly if you use a large amount or have been given other medicines for psoriasis. Ask before combining products or using light treatment.

Contact your clinician if severe burning, swelling, blistering, or a widespread rash develops, or if irritation makes treatment difficult. Seek prompt advice for unusual weakness, nausea, vomiting, marked thirst, or frequent urination, particularly after extensive use. Urgent help is needed for facial swelling or breathing difficulty. A sudden widespread red, painful, or peeling eruption also needs urgent assessment.

Ask which plaques to treat, how much product to use, how long to continue, and whether it is safe with your other psoriasis medicines. Ask what irritation is expected, which moisturiser is suitable, and when your response should be reviewed.