Dovonex Ointment

Description

What is Dovonex® Ointment?

 

 

Dovonex® Ointment is a prescription-only treatment used for the management of plaque psoriasis. It contains the active ingredient calcipotriol, a vitamin D analogue that helps slow the excessive production of skin cells associated with psoriasis.

Plaque psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that causes patches of red, inflamed skin covered with silvery scales. These plaques commonly affect the elbows, knees, trunk and lower back, although they can occur anywhere on the body.

At The Kingston Pharmacy, Dovonex® Ointment is supplied as part of our clinician-led plaque psoriasis treatment service following a suitability assessment by our clinicians.

 

 

Available Strengths

 

 

Dovonex® Ointment contains:

• Calcipotriol 50 micrograms/g

The treatment is supplied as a topical ointment for application to affected areas of the skin.

Our clinicians will determine whether Dovonex® Ointment is suitable for you and provide guidance on how to use it safely and effectively.

 

 

How Does Dovonex® Ointment Work?

Dovonex® Ointment contains calcipotriol, a synthetic form of vitamin D that helps regulate the rapid production of skin cells seen in plaque psoriasis.

In psoriasis, skin cells are produced much more quickly than normal, causing thick, raised, scaly plaques to develop. Calcipotriol helps slow this process, allowing the skin to return to a more normal rate of renewal.

With regular use, Dovonex® can help reduce scaling, plaque thickness and improve the appearance of affected skin.

 

 

Treatment may help to:

• Reduce scaling and plaque formation
• Slow excessive skin cell production
• Improve the appearance of psoriasis plaques
• Help soften thickened skin
• Support long-term psoriasis management

For best results, treatment should be used exactly as prescribed by your clinician.

 

 

Who May Be Suitable for Dovonex® Ointment?

 

 

You may be suitable for treatment if you:

• Are aged 18 years or over
• Have been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis
• Have mild to moderate plaque psoriasis affecting the body
• Are seeking a non-steroidal topical treatment
• Meet the prescribing criteria following clinical assessment

All patients must complete a clinical assessment before treatment can be prescribed.

 

 

How to Use Dovonex® Ointment

Dovonex® Ointment should be applied directly to affected areas of the skin exactly as directed by your clinician.

Apply a thin layer to the affected areas once or twice daily, depending on your treatment plan, and gently rub the ointment into the skin.

Wash your hands after application unless your hands are being treated.

Avoid applying the ointment to the face, eyes, mouth or broken skin unless specifically advised by your clinician.

Always follow the instructions provided by your clinician and use the medication exactly as prescribed.

 

 

Potential Benefits

 

 

When prescribed appropriately, Dovonex® Ointment may:

• Improve plaque psoriasis symptoms
• Reduce scaling and plaque thickness
• Help normalise skin cell growth
• Improve the appearance of affected skin
• Provide a steroid-free topical treatment option
• Offer clinician-supervised treatment and monitoring

 

 

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, Dovonex® Ointment can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

 

 

Common side effects may include:

• Skin irritation
• Itching
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Dry skin
• Redness at the application site

These effects are usually mild and temporary.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet and consult your healthcare professional if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

How quickly does Dovonex® Ointment work?

Many patients begin to notice improvements within the first few weeks of treatment, although it may take several weeks to achieve the full benefit. (nhs.uk)

 

 

Can I use moisturisers alongside Dovonex® Ointment?

Yes. Regular use of emollients can help support psoriasis management. Your clinician can advise on the best way to incorporate moisturisers into your skincare routine.

 

 

Is Dovonex® Ointment a steroid?

No. Dovonex® contains calcipotriol, a vitamin D analogue, and does not contain a corticosteroid. (nhs.uk)

 

 

What happens if I miss an application?

Apply the treatment as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next application. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

 

 

Do I need a GP prescription?

No. Dovonex® Ointment is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM) but it doesn’t require an GP prescription. At the Kingston pharmacy it can be supplied following assessment by a qualified prescribing clinician.

 

 

Our Plaque Psoriasis Treatment Service

At The Kingston Pharmacy, we provide a personalised, clinician-led plaque psoriasis treatment service designed to help patients manage symptoms safely and effectively.

Before treatment can be prescribed, you will complete a confidential online consultation covering your:

• Medical history
• Current medications
• Psoriasis diagnosis and symptoms
• Areas affected by psoriasis
• Previous treatments used
• Relevant skin conditions

Your consultation will be carefully reviewed by one of our qualified prescribing clinicians, who will assess whether treatment is safe and appropriate for you. If suitable, a personalised treatment plan will be created based on your individual needs.

 

 

Flexible Delivery and Collection Options

Once your prescription has been approved, you can choose the option that works best for you:

• Free in-store collection from The Kingston Pharmacy at a time convenient to you.
• Secure home delivery directly to your chosen address, ensuring your medication arrives safely and discreetly.

You can contact us by telephone, email, or by visiting the pharmacy, and we will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.

 

 

 

Important Information

Dovonex® Ointment is not suitable for everyone and should only be used following an appropriate clinical assessment.

Dovonex® may not be suitable for certain types of psoriasis or other skin conditions. Your clinician will assess your suitability during the consultation process.

Plaque psoriasis is a long-term condition and ongoing management may be required to help control symptoms.

Always use medicines exactly as prescribed and read the Patient Information Leaflet before use.