Description
Dovonex Ointment is a prescription-only, non-steroidal topical treatment for mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. It contains calcipotriol (a vitamin D analogue) which helps slow down excessive skin cell production, reducing scaling, redness and itch so plaques look and feel calmer over time.
At a glance
| Active ingredient | Calcipotriol 50 micrograms per gram (0.005%) |
| Medicine type | Vitamin D analogue (non-steroidal psoriasis treatment) |
| Indication | Plaque psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) suitable for topical therapy |
| Who it is for | Adults; children 6+ may be prescribed under clinical supervision |
| How often | Apply once or twice daily (twice daily is commonly used for maximum benefit) |
| Weekly maximum (adults) | Do not exceed 100 g/week across all calcipotriol products |
| Prescription status | Prescription-only medicine in the UK |
Why choose Dovonex Ointment?
- Non-steroidal option: vitamin D analogue therapy without a topical steroid.
- Targets the plaque process: helps normalise skin cell turnover to reduce thick scaling.
- Improves redness and itch: supports more comfortable, calmer skin during treatment.
- Suitable for maintenance plans: can be used in longer-term strategies when supervised by a clinician.
How Dovonex Ointment works
In plaque psoriasis, skin cells are produced too quickly and build up on the surface, forming thickened plaques with scale. Calcipotriol helps regulate skin cell growth and normalise the skin renewal process. With regular use, plaques typically flatten and scaling reduces.
Who Dovonex Ointment is for
Dovonex is commonly prescribed for:
- Mild to moderate plaque psoriasis on the body and limbs.
- Stable plaques where topical treatment is appropriate.
- Patients who want a non-steroid psoriasis treatment plan (clinician-directed).
Where it should NOT be used
- Do not apply to the face, eyes, mouth, or genitals unless a clinician specifically instructs you.
- Avoid use on broken skin, open wounds, or infected areas (weeping, crusting, spreading redness).
- Avoid skin folds unless prescribed (higher irritation/absorption risk).
- If you have scalp psoriasis, scalp solutions/gels may be more suitable than ointment use the formulation prescribed for scalp use.
How to use (step-by-step)
- Wash and dry your hands and the affected skin.
- Apply a thin layer to psoriasis plaques only.
- Gently rub in. Leave to absorb before covering with clothing.
- Use once or twice daily as prescribed.
- Wash your hands after applying (unless treating the hands).
Dose limits (important)
- Adults: do not exceed 100 g of calcipotriol ointment per week.
- Children 12-17 years: do not exceed 75 g per week (if prescribed).
- Children 6-11 years: do not exceed 50 g per week (if prescribed).
- If you also use another calcipotriol product (cream/solution/foam), the combined weekly total of calcipotriol should not exceed 5 mg.
When will I see results?
Many people notice improvements in redness and scaling within 1 to 2 weeks, with more pronounced benefit after several weeks. If symptoms are not improving, or psoriasis worsens, arrange a review so your clinician can adjust the plan.
Safety and precautions
- Do not use more than the recommended weekly amount-overuse can affect calcium levels (hypercalcaemia).
- Avoid excessive sunlight and sunbeds during treatment unless your clinician advises otherwise.
- If the treated skin becomes very irritated, reduce frequency or pause and seek medical advice.
- Tell your clinician about other psoriasis treatments you use (topicals, phototherapy, or systemic medicines).
Signs of high calcium (seek advice)
- Unusual thirst or passing urine more often than normal.
- Constipation, stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting.
- Muscle weakness, bone pain, tiredness, or confusion.
Possible side effects
Most side effects are local skin reactions and are more likely if the medicine is used too often or on sensitive areas.
- Burning, stinging, itching or redness at the application site.
- Dryness, peeling, or irritation.
- Worsening of eczema-like dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
- Rarely: changes in calcium levels if maximum weekly doses are exceeded.
Stop using the ointment and seek urgent medical help if you develop a severe allergic reaction (widespread rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty).
Buying Dovonex Ointment online in the UK
Dovonex is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. If you order online, you complete a clinical consultation so a prescriber can confirm the treatment is appropriate and check for red flags (for example, infection, unsuitable psoriasis type, or dosing risks). If approved, the prescription is issued and the medicine is supplied with discreet delivery.
How to order
- Complete the free online consultation (clinical questionnaire).
- A prescriber reviews your answers to confirm suitability.
- If approved, your prescription is issued and your order is dispatched.
- Receive your medicine in discreet packaging with support available if you need help using it.
Why choose MedCare Health Clinic & Pharmacy?
- Free online consultation included to confirm suitability before supply.
- Discreet delivery for prescription treatments.
- Access to pharmacist support for dosing, routine, and safe-use questions.
FAQs
Is Dovonex Ointment a steroid?
No. Dovonex contains calcipotriol, a vitamin D analogue. It is a non-steroidal topical psoriasis treatment.
How often should I apply Dovonex Ointment?
It is commonly applied once or twice daily. Many product instructions note twice daily for maximum benefit, but follow your prescriber’s advice.
What is the maximum amount I can use per week?
Adults should not exceed 100 g per week. Lower limits apply for children if prescribed (12-17 years: 75 g/week; 6-11 years: 50 g/week).
Can I use it on my face?
It is generally not recommended on the face. Use only if a clinician specifically instructs you.
Can I use Dovonex with Dovobet or other calcipotriol products?
Only if advised. Total weekly calcipotriol across all products should not exceed 5 mg.
How quickly does it work?
Many people notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, with best results often seen after several weeks of consistent use.

Reviews
There are no reviews yet.