Dovobet

Dovobet comes in two formulations: a gel and an ointment. The gel is most commonly prescribed in the treatment of scalp psoriasis, but it can also be used for psoriasis vulgaris on other areas of the body. The ointment is used to treat stable plaque psoriasis vulgaris.

Both the gel and the ointment contain the following active ingredients: calcipotriol and betamethasone. Together, these reduce inflammation and excessive skin cell production, providing relief from psoriasis symptoms such as redness and itching.

These medicines are only available by prescription from your doctor, which you can receive online after completing a consultation at HealthExpress.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition, the cause of which is unknown. Symptoms include thickened and scaly skin, with raised psoriasis plaques caused by excessive skin cell production, as well as itching, redness and swelling. Although Dovobet does not cure psoriasis, it helps to alleviate symptoms.

Dovobet contains two ingredients: calcipotriol and betamethasone. Calcipotriol is a vitamin D derivative that works to reduce skin cell production and promote normal skin cell growth, clearing psoriasis plaques.

Betamethasone is a type of medicine known as a topical corticosteroid. It acts inside the skin cells to reduce the release of inflammatory substances. This alleviates symptoms of psoriasis, such as itching and redness. Betamethasone is classed as a potent corticosteroid.

Dovobet gel and ointment are not recommended for repeated or prolonged treatment, unless advised by your doctor.

• If using the gel for scalp psoriasis, comb hair to remove loose scales and then part the hair
• Apply a thin layer of gel to the area(s) affected once a day
• Use 1-4g (1tsp) of gel
• Wash your hands after application
• For the ointment, break the seal with the pointed cap
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) and rub in gently until it disappears
• Wash your hands after application
• Use this ointment once a day
• The initial treatment period is usually 4 weeks, but your doctor may recommend an alternative treatment time

Dovobet is available in a gel or ointment formula. One gram of the gel and one gram of the ointment each contain 50mcg calcipotriol and 0.5mg of betamethasone.

These medicines are only available on prescription from your doctor. Both the gel and the ointment are available in a 60g or 120g size.

Worsening of your psoriasis is one of the most common side effects of Dovobet. If this occurs, stop using the ointment or gel and contact your doctor.

Other side effects include: dry skin; itching; skin irritation and redness; dermatitis; burning sensation at the area of application; skin thinning; and, skin infection.

Using betamethasone (one of Dovobet's ingredients) can cause side effects including: changes in hair growth; perioral dermatitis (which occurs around the mouth); allergic contact dermatitis; and, folliculitis.

Not everyone who uses this medicine will experience side effects. If you are concerned about any side effects you are experiencing, consult your doctor.

There are other side effects of Dovobet not listed here but are available to read in the patient leaflet attached, or included within the packaging.

This medicine contains a potent corticosteroid. You should not use any other creams or ointments containing steroids while using Dovobet, as your risk of side effects may increase.

If you are using other products, such as moisturisers, on the skin you should leave a few minutes between applying each product, so that they do not mix.

Do not take a shower or bath directly after applying Dovobet. It may therefore be best to apply the product at night and wash it off in the morning.

Do not use Dovobet if you have pustular, exfoliative or erythrodermic psoriasis, calcium metabolism disorder, severe liver or kidney disease, fungal, viral or bacterial skin infections, scabies (or other parasitic skin infections), acne vulgaris, acne rosacea, perioral dermatitis, ichthyosis or skin sores due to syphilis.

Dovobet ointment and gel are suitable for use in adults over the age of 18. These medicines should not be used in children.

You should not use either of these medicines if you are pregnant, unless your doctor considers it essential. Breastfeeding mothers should not use this medicine unless prescribed by their doctor. If prescribed, do not use the gel or ointment for prolonged periods of time, on large areas of skin, or underneath airtight dressings as this can enhance absorption of the active ingredients.

You should not use these medicines if you are allergic to calcipotriol, betamethasone or any of the other ingredients.

You can buy Dovobet ointment online after completing a short questionnaire. This will take a couple of minutes and our doctor will approve shortly after. Once approved, this consult is kept in your member's area for future use if needed.

Orders approved by 4:30pm Monday to Friday are eligible for free next-day delivery, or you can choose a particular day through the nominated day delivery option. We also offer UPS Access Points so you can pick up your treatment in-person.