Taclonex Suspension 60gm

Manufacturer LEO PHARMA INC Active Ingredient Calcipotriene and Betamethasone Gel and Topical Suspension(kal si POE try een & bay ta METH a sone) Pronunciation KAL-sih-POE-try-een & BAY-tah-METH-ah-sone
It is used to treat plaque psoriasis. It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
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Drug Class
Antipsoriatic
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Pharmacologic Class
Vitamin D Analog; Corticosteroid, Topical
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
May 2009
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Taclonex Suspension is a medicine applied to the skin to treat plaque psoriasis. It contains two active ingredients: calcipotriene, which is a form of vitamin D that helps slow down skin cell growth, and betamethasone, a strong steroid that reduces redness, itching, and swelling.
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How to Use This Medicine

Proper Use of This Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to use this medication only as directed.

Application Instructions

Apply this medication only to your skin, avoiding ingestion or contact with your mouth, nose, and eyes, as it may cause burning.
Do not apply to sensitive areas, including the face, underarms, groin area, or skin that is thinning.
Avoid applying this medication to the vaginal area.
Before and after use, wash your hands thoroughly, unless your hand is the treated area, in which case you should not wash it after application.
Gently rub a thin layer of the medication onto the affected skin area.
Unless instructed by your doctor, do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or makeup.
Before use, shake the medication well.

Special Instructions for Scalp Application

To apply to the scalp, part your hair and gently rub the medication onto the affected skin area.
Allow the medication to dry before styling your hair as usual.
If you have chemically treated hair, wait 12 hours before applying this medication.
Avoid washing your hair immediately after application.

Storage and Disposal

Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing.
Keep the lid tightly closed and store all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets.

Missed Dose Instructions

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule.
Do not apply two doses at once or use extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Apply a thin layer to affected areas only, once daily.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after applying the medication.
  • Do not apply to the face, groin, or armpits, or if skin is broken or infected.
  • Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
  • Do not use with occlusive dressings (e.g., bandages, plastic wrap) unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
  • Limit total weekly dose to 60 grams to minimize risk of side effects.
  • Avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (tanning beds, sunlamps) while using this medication, as calcipotriene can increase sensitivity to UV light.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Apply to affected areas once daily for up to 4 weeks. Do not exceed 60 grams per week.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Plaque Psoriasis (Scalp and Body): Apply a thin layer to affected areas once daily. Treatment should be limited to 4 weeks. Total dosage should not exceed 60 grams per week.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established (Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients under 12 years of age).
Adolescent: Not established (Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients under 12 years of age). For patients 12-17 years, the ointment formulation has been studied, but the suspension is generally not recommended.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.
Moderate: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.
Severe: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.
Dialysis: Considerations: Systemic absorption is low, but prolonged or extensive use may lead to systemic effects. Monitor for hypercalcemia and HPA axis suppression.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.
Moderate: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.
Severe: No specific adjustment recommended, but use with caution due to potential for systemic absorption.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 analog that regulates cell proliferation and differentiation. It is believed to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation and promote their differentiation, thereby normalizing abnormal cell growth in psoriatic skin. Betamethasone dipropionate is a high-potency synthetic corticosteroid. It exerts anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins (lipocortins), which control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Percutaneous absorption is low but variable, depending on the site of application, skin integrity, and use of occlusive dressings. Approximately 6% of calcipotriene and 5% of betamethasone are absorbed systemically after 2 weeks of treatment.
Tmax: Not precisely defined for topical application, but systemic levels peak within hours.
FoodEffect: Not applicable for topical formulation.

Distribution:

Vd: Not precisely quantified for topical application; systemic distribution occurs after absorption.
ProteinBinding: Betamethasone is approximately 64% protein bound. Calcipotriene and its metabolites are also protein bound.
CnssPenetration: Limited systemic penetration, therefore CNS penetration is minimal.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Calcipotriene: Approximately 5-6 hours (systemic). Betamethasone: Approximately 5.6 hours (systemic).
Clearance: Not precisely quantified for topical application.
ExcretionRoute: Mainly renal and fecal for both components and their metabolites.
Unchanged: Minimal unchanged drug excreted.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Clinical improvement typically seen within 1-2 weeks.
PeakEffect: Maximal therapeutic effect usually observed within 2-4 weeks of daily application.
DurationOfAction: Effects persist as long as treatment is continued; relapse may occur after discontinuation.

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:

Allergic reaction symptoms, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high calcium levels, including:
+ Weakness
+ Confusion
+ Feeling tired
+ Headache
+ Upset stomach and vomiting
+ Constipation
+ Bone pain
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling very tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
Signs of high blood sugar, such as:
+ Confusion
+ Feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Passing urine more often
+ Flushing
+ Fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Skin changes, including:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Irritation where the medication was applied
Skin breakdown where the medication is used
Change in skin color
Change in eyesight

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:

* Itching

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Increased thirst or urination (signs of high calcium)
  • Muscle weakness or bone pain (signs of high calcium)
  • Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite (signs of high calcium)
  • Fatigue or confusion (signs of high calcium or adrenal suppression)
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness (signs of adrenal suppression)
  • Blurred vision or eye pain (potential eye side effects)
  • Severe skin irritation, burning, itching, or redness at application site
  • Signs of skin infection (pus, fever, worsening redness)
  • New stretch marks, skin thinning, or easy bruising (signs of steroid side effects)
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
If you have elevated calcium levels in your blood.
If you currently have a skin infection.
If the skin where you will be applying this medication is thinning.

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication alongside your other treatments and health issues. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.

Before using any other medications or skin products, including soaps, consult with your doctor. If you are undergoing light therapy, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor to avoid any potential interactions.

When applying this medication, avoid putting it on cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Exercise caution when applying it to large areas of skin or near open wounds, and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns. It is vital to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and frequency of application, as using more than prescribed or for an extended period may increase the risk of severe side effects.

You may be more susceptible to sunburn while using this medication. To minimize this risk, avoid exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds, and use protective measures such as sunscreen, clothing, and eyewear that provide adequate sun protection.

This medication may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma. Discuss this potential risk with your doctor. If you are a parent or caregiver of a child using this medication, it is essential to use it with caution, as children may be more prone to certain side effects.

In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers. Regular growth checks may be necessary, and your doctor will discuss this with you. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication. When breastfeeding, avoid applying this medication directly to the nipple or surrounding area.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium): increased thirst, frequent urination, muscle weakness, bone pain, confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting.
  • HPA axis suppression (adrenal gland problems): fatigue, weakness, weight loss, low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, vomiting.

What to Do:

If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center immediately (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention. Treatment involves discontinuation of the medication and supportive care to manage symptoms, including hydration and monitoring of calcium and electrolyte levels.

Drug Interactions

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Moderate Interactions

  • Other topical corticosteroids (increased risk of HPA axis suppression)
  • Other topical vitamin D analogs (increased risk of hypercalcemia)
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Confidence Interactions

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Baseline skin assessment

Rationale: To document extent and severity of psoriasis before treatment.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy

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Routine Monitoring

Signs of HPA axis suppression (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, adrenal insufficiency)

Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged or extensive use

Target: Absence of signs/symptoms

Action Threshold: If suspected, perform ACTH stimulation test, plasma cortisol, or urinary free cortisol. Discontinue or reduce dose if confirmed.

Serum calcium levels

Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive use or in patients with risk factors for hypercalcemia

Target: Normal range (8.5-10.2 mg/dL)

Action Threshold: If elevated, discontinue or reduce dose. Monitor urinary calcium excretion if hypercalcemia persists.

Local skin reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis)

Frequency: At each follow-up visit

Target: Minimal to no adverse reactions

Action Threshold: If severe or persistent, discontinue use.

Ophthalmic examination (for prolonged use near eyes)

Frequency: Annually or as clinically indicated

Target: Absence of cataracts or glaucoma

Action Threshold: If changes noted, refer to ophthalmologist.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bone pain
  • Confusion
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Skin thinning
  • Easy bruising
  • Stretch marks
  • Acne-like eruptions

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown teratogenic effects with both calcipotriene and betamethasone.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Potential for teratogenic effects based on animal studies; systemic absorption is low but possible.
Second Trimester: Potential for fetal adverse effects (e.g., HPA axis suppression, growth retardation) with high-potency corticosteroids.
Third Trimester: Potential for fetal adverse effects (e.g., HPA axis suppression, growth retardation) with high-potency corticosteroids; risk of premature delivery or low birth weight.
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Lactation

It is not known whether calcipotriene or betamethasone are excreted in human milk following topical application. Systemic absorption is low, but caution should be exercised. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent direct infant exposure.

Infant Risk: L3 (Moderate risk). Potential for infant exposure through breast milk or direct skin contact. Monitor for signs of systemic corticosteroid effects in the infant (e.g., growth suppression, weight gain).
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients under 12 years of age. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity from topical corticosteroids and calcipotriene due to a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. HPA axis suppression and hypercalcemia have been reported in pediatric patients using topical corticosteroids and calcipotriene. Use in adolescents (12-17 years) should be with caution and limited duration.

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Geriatric Use

No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly subjects and younger subjects. However, due to potential for increased systemic absorption in patients with compromised skin barrier or extensive use, monitor for systemic effects (HPA axis suppression, hypercalcemia).

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Taclonex Suspension is specifically formulated for scalp and body psoriasis; it is not for use on the face, groin, or axillae due to increased risk of skin atrophy and other side effects in these sensitive areas.
  • Patients should be instructed to shake the bottle well before each use.
  • The maximum recommended weekly dose is 60 grams; exceeding this dose increases the risk of systemic side effects like HPA axis suppression and hypercalcemia.
  • Advise patients to wash their hands thoroughly after applying the medication to avoid accidental transfer to eyes or other sensitive areas.
  • Avoid concomitant use of other topical corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.
  • Prolonged use, especially on large surface areas or under occlusion, can increase systemic absorption and the risk of adverse effects.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., clobetasol, fluocinonide)
  • Other topical vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcitriol)
  • Topical retinoids (e.g., tazarotene)
  • Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus)
  • Phototherapy (UVB, PUVA)
  • Systemic agents (e.g., methotrexate, cyclosporine, apremilast, biologics like adalimumab, ustekinumab, secukinumab, ixekizumab, guselkumab, risankizumab, brodalumab)
  • Excimer laser
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $1000 - $1500 per 60gm tube
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or 3 (Brand), Tier 1 (Generic)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.