Enstilar

The active ingredients in Enstilar are betamethasone dipropionate and calcipotriene. Betamethasone dipropionate belongs to a class of medications called topical corticosteroids. These steroid medications calm down inflammation in the skin so that the immune system does not target your skin cells. Calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog. It is also known as calcipotriol. It is unknown how this combination proves useful in the treatment of plaque psoriasis, but use in clinical studies at affected skin areas has demonstrated it to be an effective topical treatment.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Enstilar. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Enstilar:

• Enstilar should be used exactly as prescribed.
• Typically, Enstilar is applied once daily to the affected areas for up to 4 weeks at a time. The cannister must be shaken before use, and hands should be washed before and after use unless the psoriasis is on your hands. Your healthcare provider may instruct you to use the medication for a different period of time. Use should be discontinued once the psoriasis is under control. Do not use more than 60 grams of the foam every 4 days.
• Do not use Enstilar on the face, groin, underarms, or thinning skin at the application site. If you accidentally get Enstilar in these areas or in your mouth or eyes, use water to wash the area right away.
• Do not apply any occlusive dressings or bandages to the area to which you have applied Enstilar.
• Enstilar foam contains propellants and is flammable. Do not smoke right after applying and avoid any open flames.
• Do not use Enstilar for longer than what your healthcare provider has instructed you to do or on large areas of your skin. Prolonged use of Enstilar on the skin can lead to skin damage and other serious side effects.
• If you are breastfeeding, apply it on the smallest area possible for the shortest amount of time possible or as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not use Enstilar on the nipples or areola to avoid transferring to your baby.
• If you are pregnant, use Enstilar on the smallest area of skin for the shortest amount of time as possible or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Some mild or common side effects of Enstilar seen in clinical trials include:

• General skin irritation
• Dryness
• Itching
• Folliculitis or inflamed hair pores
• Changes in skin color
• Hives
• Worsening of your psoriasis

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Enstilar. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Hypercalcemia or high blood calcium levels.
• Adrenal gland insufficiency.
• Cushing’s Syndrome.
• Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels.
• Serious skin reactions such as skin atrophy or thinning of the skin, burning, severe irritation, and redness. These could be signs of allergic contact dermatitis or other allergic reactions.
• Changes in vision or blurred vision. Getting Enstilar in your eyes can increase your risk of glaucoma or cataracts.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Enstilar. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Enstilar, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Calcium metabolism disorder
• Skin thinning at the treatment site
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

There are no contraindications to using Enstilar.

It can take a couple of weeks of regular use to see the benefits of Enstilar.

When Enstilar is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions.

Enstilar foam contains 0.005% calcipotriene and 0.064% betamethasone dipropionate.

Enstilar should be stored at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Enstilar is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Leo Pharma Inc.

Currently, there is no generic available for the brand-name Enstilar.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while using Enstilar.

It is unknown if Enstilar is safe to use in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Enstilar passes into the breastmilk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.