The Wuhua Psoriasis Ointment contains two active ingredients: the vitamin D derivative Calcipotriene and Betamethasone dipropionate. It has been approved by the Taiwan FDA for the treatment of plaque psoriasis.

The efficacy and safety of the Calcipotriene/Betamethasone dipropionate combination ointment have been validated through multiple large-scale multinational clinical trials.

Calcipotriene is a vitamin D derivative. In vitro studies have shown that it promotes differentiation and inhibits the proliferation of keratinocytes while also suppressing inflammatory responses.

Betamethasone dipropionate is a corticosteroid with general steroid properties, primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.

The latest psoriasis treatment guidelines published by the American Academy of Dermatology in 2009 recommend the use of Calcipotriene/Betamethasone dipropionate combination ointment with an A-level recommendation and the strongest evidence-based rating.

 

Active Ingredients

Each gram contains:

• Calcipotriene 0.05mg

• Betamethasone 0.64mg

 

Pharmacological and Pharmacokinetic Properties

Calcipotriene is a vitamin D derivative, and literature indicates that it can differentiate and inhibit the proliferation of keratinocytes, providing an effective theoretical basis for the treatment of psoriasis. Betamethasone dipropionate is a corticosteroid with typical steroid properties, primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. However, its exact mechanism of action for psoriasis remains unclear.

 

In terms of pharmacokinetics, based on the literature, both Calcipotriene and Betamethasone dipropionate are absorbed through the skin in amounts less than 1% of the applied dose. Under normal conditions, systemic absorption is not expected to have significant effects on systemic parameters. This means that their pharmacokinetic properties do not interfere with each other, and the risk of systemic absorption is low.

 

Indications

Plaque psoriasis

 

[Dosage and Administration]

Apply once daily to the affected areas for up to 4 weeks. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 15g, the maximum weekly dose should not exceed 100g, and the treated area should not exceed 30% of the total body surface area. The duration of treatment at the same site should not exceed 4 weeks, and the total amount used should not exceed 60g. There is no clinical experience in children.

 

Warnings

• Do not use on the face. After application, wash hands thoroughly to avoid contact with the face.

• Due to the presence of Calcipotriene, excessive use may lead to hypercalcemia. However, calcium levels will quickly return to normal after discontinuation.

• Side effects associated with systemic corticosteroid use, such as adrenal suppression or worsening of diabetes, may also occur with topical corticosteroids due to systemic absorption.

• Avoid large-area applications, occlusive dressings, and use in skin folds as these increase the systemic absorption of steroids. Due to a lack of clinical experience, special caution is required for patients with severe liver or kidney diseases.

 

National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) Regulations for Dermatological Formulations Containing Calcipotriene and Corticosteroids for External Use: These formulations are limited to cases diagnosed with psoriasis. The recommended usage is no more than one 30g tube per week. If the prescribed amount exceeds one 30g tube per week due to medical necessity, the reason must be documented in the medical record in detail.​