DOVOBET What is it?
Dovobet is a topical ointment for plaque psoriasis. It is a stable combination of calcipotriol (as in Dovonex) and betamethasone dipropionate (a potent corticosteroid). It is available in 60gm and 120gm tubes and is manufactured by Leo Pharmaceuticals.
Who is it for?
For patients with severe plaque psoriasis covering no more than 30% if their body. It is NOT recommended for those with erythrodermic, pustular or guttate psoriasis. It is not licensed for pregnant women or for children under the age of 18. Due to the potency of the steroid, it is not advisable to use Dovobet on the face, genital areas or the scalp.
How does it work?
Both of the above ingredients are widely used, in their separate forms, for the treatment of psoriasis. Dovobet combines the two in a form that does not degrade either ingredient and allows both to work effectively together. The calcipotriol regulates and inhibits cell growth – therefore lessening the flaking of the psoriasis patches. The steroid part of the ointment has an anti-inflammatory property – therefore lessening the redness and raised look of the patch.
How do I use Dovobet?
Dovobet is applied directly to the psoriasis.
Current guidelines recommend that:
It should not be used for any more than 4 weeks in one treatment
and
No more than 100gm to be applied per week.
What side effects could I suffer using Dovobet?
In trials, 5-10% of patients suffered pruritus (itchiness).
However, as with any steroid-based topical preparation, extreme caution should be used when stopping treatment. Although no official research has been published, some patients posting on the PHO Forums have experienced mild to severe flare-up of their psoriasis when they have finished using Dovobet. With these experiences in mind, please discuss any concerns in this area with the prescribing GP or dermatologist.
There are threads and posts on Dovobet and the experiences of PHO UK members in the forums. SJ July 2004
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