Description
Dovobet Ointment is a prescription-only topical treatment for adults with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. It combines a vitamin D analogue (calcipotriol) with a potent corticosteroid (betamethasone) to help reduce redness, scaling and itching during a flare while improving the look and feel of psoriatic plaques.
At a glance
| Active ingredients | Calcipotriol 50 micrograms/g + betamethasone 0.5 mg/g (as dipropionate) |
| Indication | Plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) amenable to topical therapy (adults) |
| How often | Apply a thin layer once daily |
| Recommended course | Up to 4 weeks (continue/restart only after medical review) |
| Maximum use limits | Do not exceed 15 g/day; treat no more than 30% body surface area; weekly calcipotriol limit equals 100 g/week |
| Form | Ointment (not the scalp gel formulation) |
Why Dovobet Ointment is prescribed
- Dual-action formula: calcipotriol helps normalise skin cell turnover while betamethasone reduces inflammation and itch.
- Targets key plaque symptoms: redness, scaling, thickness and discomfort.
- Once-daily routine: practical regimen for flare control when milder options are not enough.
How it works
In plaque psoriasis, skin cells build up too quickly, creating thickened, red, scaly plaques. Calcipotriol helps slow excessive skin cell production, while betamethasone reduces inflammatory activity and itching. Used as directed for short courses, the combination helps plaques flatten and scaling reduce.
Who can use Dovobet Ointment
- Adults (18+) with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis suitable for topical therapy.
- People treating limited areas of stable plaques on the body and limbs.
- Suitability should be confirmed by a prescriber, especially if psoriasis is widespread or atypical.
How to use (once daily)
- Wash and dry your hands and the affected area.
- Apply a thin layer to plaques only (avoid healthy skin where possible).
- Gently rub in until absorbed.
- Use once daily, ideally at the same time each day.
- Wash your hands after applying (unless you are treating your hands).
How much should you use? Use the smallest amount needed to cover plaques as a thin film. Follow the daily and weekly maximum limits below.
Course length and maximum limits (important)
- Recommended course is up to 4 weeks. If you need to continue or restart after this, arrange a medical review.
- Do not use more than 15 g in one day (across all calcipotriol-containing products).
- Do not treat more than 30% of your total body surface area.
- Weekly calcipotriol limit is 5 mg, which equals 100 g/week of Dovobet-type products (50 micrograms/g).
Where NOT to apply
- Do not use on the face, eyes, mouth, or genitals unless a clinician specifically instructs you.
- Avoid skin folds (groin, armpits, under breasts) unless prescribed – absorption is higher.
- Do not apply to broken skin, open wounds, or areas with infection (weeping, crusting, spreading redness).
- Avoid acne or rosacea areas.
- Do not cover with airtight dressings unless instructed (occlusion increases absorption).
Can I use it on the scalp?
Dovobet Ointment is generally used for body plaques. For scalp psoriasis, gel formulations are often prescribed because they are easier to apply in hair-bearing areas. If you have scalp psoriasis, use the product specifically prescribed for scalp use.
Extra precautions
- Avoid excessive sunlight, sunbeds, or other UV/light treatments unless a clinician advises otherwise.
- Fire safety: do not smoke or go near naked flames while the product is on your skin or on fabrics in contact with it. Clothing and bedding may ignite more easily even after washing.
Who should NOT use it (or needs advice first)
- Children and adolescents under 18 (not recommended unless a specialist advises).
- Anyone allergic to calcipotriol, betamethasone or any ingredient in the ointment base.
- If you have calcium metabolism problems (risk of hypercalcaemia with overuse).
- If you have severe psoriasis types (e.g., erythrodermic, exfoliative, pustular) – requires specialist care.
- If you suspect infection or the rash is painful, hot, spreading, weeping or crusting.
Possible side effects
Most people tolerate Dovobet well when used correctly for short courses on limited areas. Risk increases with prolonged use, large areas, thin skin sites, or occlusion.
- Local irritation: burning, itching, redness or dryness where applied.
- Skin thinning, stretch marks or visible small blood vessels with excessive steroid exposure.
- Worsening or masking of an underlying infection.
- Rarely: calcium-related effects if calcipotriol limits are exceeded.
Stop using the ointment and seek urgent medical help if you develop severe swelling, widespread rash, breathing difficulty, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Buying Dovobet Ointment online in the UK
Dovobet Ointment is prescription-only in the UK. When ordering online, you will complete a clinical questionnaire so a prescriber can confirm the medicine is appropriate and check for red flags such as infection or unsuitable psoriasis type. If approved, the prescription is issued and the medicine can be supplied with discreet delivery.
- Free online consultation (clinical questionnaire) to confirm suitability before supply.
- Discreet packaging and secure delivery options.
- Pharmacist support for dosing and safe-use questions.
FAQs
Is Dovobet Ointment prescription-only in the UK?
Yes. A prescriber must confirm it is suitable before it can be supplied.
How often do I apply Dovobet Ointment?
It is usually applied once daily as a thin layer to affected plaques only.
How long can I use it for?
The recommended treatment period is up to 4 weeks. Longer or repeat courses should be reviewed by a clinician.
When will I see improvement?
Many people notice reduced redness and scaling within 1–2 weeks, but response depends on plaque thickness, location and adherence.
Can I use it on my face?
Avoid facial use unless specifically prescribed because the steroid component is potent and facial skin is more sensitive.
Can I use it with moisturisers (emollients)?
Yes. Emollients support the skin barrier. Apply them regularly, and apply Dovobet once daily to active plaques, leaving a short gap between products.
Can I use it on the scalp?
Ointment is usually for body plaques. Scalp psoriasis is often treated with gel or scalp solutions. Use the formulation prescribed for scalp use.
What is the maximum amount I can use?
Do not exceed 15 g/day, do not treat more than 30% body surface area, and keep within weekly calcipotriol limits (equivalent to 100 g/week of 50 micrograms/g products).

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