Can Enstilar be used on the scalp?

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Official answer

by Drugs.com

In studies, Enstilar Foam (calcipotriene / betamethasone dipropionate) has been used safely and effectively to treat scalp psoriasis in adults and adolescents ages 12 to 17 years of age. Foam preparations are often preferred by patients with scalp psoriasis (over ointments or thick creams) and the ingredients in Enstilar Foam are considered standard first-line treatments.

  • Plaque psoriasis is a skin condition often found on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back. Psoriasis appears as red lesions with silvery white scales that may itch, burn or bleed.
  • Up to 50% to 80% of patients may experience a flare-up of plaque psoriasis on their scalp, which can cause scarring, hair loss and psychological distress.
  • The exact cause of psoriasis is not known, but it is thought to be caused by an immune system disruption that leads to rapid skin cell growth. Symptoms are often managed with topical treatments.

    • Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much Enstilar Foam to use and where to use it. It is usually applied once daily to the affect area for up to 4 weeks. Do not use more than 60 grams of Enstilar Foam every 4 days.

    What is Enstilar Foam?

    Enstilar Foam is a prescription topical spray foam approved by the FDA for treatment of plaque psoriasis in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. Each gram of Enstilar Foam 0.005% / 0.064% contains 50 mcg of calcipotriene and 0.643 mg of betamethasone dipropionate. It is applied once daily for up to 4 weeks.

  • Calcipotriene is a topical vitamin D analog and works by slowing down the overproduction of skin cells commonly seen in psoriasis.
  • Topical corticosteroids, like betamethasone dipropionate, help to reduce inflammation, redness, itching and pain. Betamethasone is considered a high-potency topical corticosteroid.

    • It is important to see your doctor and have the correct strength of corticosteroid cream prescribed for your specific condition and area that needs to be treated. Only use topical steroids on your face, groin, or axillae (underarm area) if directed by your doctor. Do not use Enstilar foam in your mouth, eyes or vagina.

    Also, do not use bandages, wraps or occlusive dressings of any type on the area unless your doctor directs you to do so. Side effects are more likely to occur if the area is covered or wrapped, or with extensive or prolonged use of high strength medicines.

    Enstilar Foam is manufactured by LEO Laboratories Ltd.

    Safety of Enstilar

    Enstilar Foam is well-tolerated by most patients. Overall, in studies submitted to the FDA for approval, side effects reported in less than 1% of all patients in studies included:

  • Irritation
  • Itching
  • Inflamed hair pores (folliculitis)
  • Changes in skin color
  • Rash with red bumps or skin welts (hives)
  • Worsening of psoriasis

    • Other types of more serious side effects can include:

  • Changes in your blood or urine calcium levels
  • Absorption of the drug into your bloodstream which may cause your adrenal glands to stop working properly
  • Cushing’s syndrome (this occurs when your body is exposed to too much of the hormone cortisol)
  • High blood sugar levels or sugar in your urine
  • Skin changes, like thinning of your skin, itching or redness
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Increased chance of getting cataracts and glaucoma

    • This is not all the information you need to know about Enstilar Foam (betamethasone and calcipotriene topical) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

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