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Taclonex and Enstilar (calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate)

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: September 2023 | Last updated: September 2023

Taclonex® and Enstilar® (calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate) are brand names for topical treatments that can be used to improve the symptoms of plaque psoriasis on the skin and the scalp in people ages 12 and up. The medicines are only available with a prescription from your doctor.1,2

Taclonex is available as an ointment. Enstilar is available as a foam.1,2

What are the ingredients in Taclonex and Enstilar?

Taclonex and Enstilar are combination treatments that contain the same 2 active ingredients:1,2

  • Calcipotriene
  • Betamethasone dipropionate

Calcipotriene is a type of medicine called a vitamin D analog, which contains a synthetic version of vitamin D3 that is made in a lab. Betamethasone dipropionate is a corticosteroid medicine.1,2

How do Taclonex and Enstilar work?

Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes chronic inflammation. This inflammation triggers the production of new skin cells at a faster rate than the skin can naturally shed the old skin cells. As new skin cells are produced, the old skin cells build up on the surface of the skin, causing plaques.3

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Calcipotriene works by reducing the number of new skin cells that the body makes. Betamethasone dipropionate works by reducing inflammation, thus improving psoriasis symptoms like pain, itching, and swelling.1,2

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Taclonex include:1

  • Itching
  • Rash

The most common side effects of Enstilar include:2

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

These are not all the possible side effects of Taclonex and Enstilar. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Taclonex or Enstilar. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Taclonex or Enstilar.

Other things to know

Before starting treatment with Taclonex or Enstilar, tell your doctor if you:1,2

  • Have a skin infection
  • Have a calcium metabolism disorder
  • Have one of the following types of psoriasis:
    • Erythrodermic psoriasis
    • Exfoliative psoriasis
    • Pustular psoriasis
  • Are getting light therapy

There is not enough data to know if Taclonex and Enstilar are safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Before starting treatment with either of these drugs, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can help you decide if these drugs are right for you.1,2

Avoid spending a long time in the sun while using Taclonex. You should also avoid tanning booths and sunlamps while using Taclonex.1

Do not use Taclonex or Enstilar on:1,2

  • Areas where you have thin skin
  • Your face
  • Under your arms,
  • On your groin area

Taclonex and Enstilar can interact with some other medicines, causing serious side effects. Before beginning treatment for ConditionName, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Taclonex and Enstilar.