What is Vectical: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Jan 25, 2023

Vectical overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Vectical

Generic Names:

  • Calcitriol

Uses:

  • Treats psoriasis. This medicine is a form of vitamin D.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antipsoriatic

Forms:

  • Ointment

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin

What is Vectical used for?

Calcitriol is a manmade vitamin D in its active form. Adequate vitamin D is important for bone health. Some health conditions prevent the activation of vitamin D in the body, and calcitriol helps prevent vitamin D deficiency. Calcitriol is a generic medication also sold under the brand names Rocaltrol, Vectical, and Calcijex. This drug has been available for years. In the treatment of some vitamin D and calcium disorders, calcitriol use is common.

What form(s) does Vectical come in

  • Ointment

What are common Vectical doses?

  • Tube Of Ointment 100gm of 3mcg/gm

Common Vectical prescriptions

  • Vectical
    100gm of 3mcg/gm tube of ointment

How to take Vectical

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Missed dose: Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze or refrigerate.

What to do if you miss a dose of Vectical

Vectical contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to calcitriol or to vitamin D.

Vectical warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Do not use more calcitriol than your doctor ordered. Too much of this medicine may cause a dangerous amount of calcium to build up in your body.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

  • Severe skin irritation or worsening of psoriasis

  • Severe stomach or side pain, nausea, or vomiting

  • Uneven heartbeat

Vectical interactions

  • Do not take vitamins, calcium supplements, or other forms of vitamin D while you are taking calcitriol.

  • Some medicines can affect how calcitriol works. Tell your doctor if you are taking a diuretic (water pill), such as chlorothiazide, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), or metolazone.

  • This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Vectical side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Confusion, depression, or muscle weakness

  • Severe stomach or side pain, nausea, or vomiting

  • Uneven heartbeat

  • Increase in thirst or how often you urinate

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Blistering, peeling, red skin rash

  • Severe skin irritation or worsening of psoriasis

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild skin discomfort

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