Silkis Ointment

• Silkis ointment contains the active ingredient calcitriol
• Calcitriol is similar to vitamin D, which is vital for healthy skin
• Silkis ointment is commonly prescribed to treat plaque psoriasis
• Silkis ointment can cause skin irritation, and should therefore be applied in a thin layer and only to the affected areas
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Silkis ointment contains the active ingredient calcitriol. This is similar to vitamin D which is essential for skin health. In plaque psoriasis (the most common form of psoriasis), red, scaly patches develop on the skin. This is because the skin cells are multiplying more quickly than normal. The patches can become sore and itchy, and some people feel embarrassed by them. 

The calcitriol in Silkis ointment slows the production and multiplication of skin cells which helps to minimise the inflammation and scaly patches.

The ointment should be applied to the affected areas twice daily, once in the morning and once before going to bed. If you wash in the morning or evening, the ointment should be applied after washing.

You must wash your hands after applying the ointment, and avoid contact with the eyes. You should rinse the eyes if contact occurs.

Silkis ointment contains 3 micrograms of calcitriol per gram of ointment. It should be applied in a thin layer only to the areas of plaque psoriasis. 

Like all medications, Silkis can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Itching
• Skin discomfort or irritation
• Redness of the skin.

These side effects are likely to settle down. However, if they persist or become troublesome you should speak to your doctor for further advice as a different medication may be more suitable.

Serious allergic reactions happen very rarely. If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip swelling or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Silkis may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your prescriber if you:

• Have an allergy to Silkis ointment, calcitriol, or any other medication
• Are undergoing treatment to correct calcium levels, or are known to have an abnormal calcium metabolism
• Have kidney or liver disease
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Your prescriber can then advise whether Silkis is a suitable medication for you.

You must not smoke or go near naked flames when using Silkis ointment. Bedding and clothing that has been in contact with the ointment may also be more flammable than usual. Extreme caution is therefore advised for those using Silkis ointment. 

Some medications can interact with Silkis. You may be advised that Silkis will not suit you if you already take:

• Diuretics (sometimes known as ‘water tablets’)
• Digoxin
• Calcium supplements
• Vitamin D.

Because Silkis ointment may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the ointment will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Silkis ointment will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Silkis ointment will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription. Silkis will then be conveniently dispatched from one of our partner pharmacies.