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Vectical vs. Dovonex

Calcitriol ointment (Vectical) is used to treat an autoimmune skin condition called plaque psoriasis in adults and children 2 years and older. It's a form of vitamin D, or a vitamin D analogue, that's thought to help regulate the immune system to treat psoriasis. The ointment is applied onto affected areas of the body twice a day. Side effects might include skin discomfort. This prescription medication is available under the brand name Vectical and as a lower-cost generic.

• Mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis

• High calcium levels in the blood (24%)
• Skin discomfort (3%)

• High calcium levels

Calcipotriene is a topical form of vitamin D that helps treat plaque psoriasis. It comes in many different dosage forms, such as a cream, ointment, foam, and solution. Calcipotriene is typically applied to the affected skin once or twice a day, depending on the form you have. Most forms are available as both brand-name and generic versions, except for the cream. The brand name for the calcipotriene cream, Dovonex, isn't available anymore, but there's still a generic version of it. Some side effects include skin irritation, burning, and stinging.

• Plaque psoriasis - cream, ointment, foam
• Scalp psoriasis - foam, solution

• Skin irritation
• Temporary burning, stinging, or tingling feeling on the skin
• Skin redness
• Dry skin
• Rash
• Itching
• Worsening psoriasis

• Allergic reaction
• Higher calcium levels
• Flammable (foam and solution only)