Clinical Effectiveness of Calcipotriol Topical Monotherapy in Patients with Psoriasis

Abstract

The effectiveness and safety of twice-daily treatment with calcipotriol ointment were evaluated in 18 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Results for inpatients treated with calcipotriol ointment for 2 weeks under strict control were compared with those for outpatients who treated themselves with calcipotriol for 2 weeks at home. The clinical effects of both treatments were almost the same, suggesting that outpatients adhered to the physician’s prescription. After 12 weeks, the mean percentage of clinical improvement based on modified psoriasis area and severity index was 80% in outpatients, and the itchiness was improved significantly. Two patients had skin irritation during the period of therapy. No clinically important increase in serum calcium was observed in any of the patients. The impact of calcipotriol ointment on the quality of life of each patient was also evaluated. The score of self-consciousness improved significantly. The degree of satisfaction with the treatment improved from 33% to 80%. Calcipotriol ointment is safe and effective for treatment of psoriasis.