Calcitriol Ointment and Telotristat Etiprate

• Generic Name: calcitriol topical
• Dosage Forms: ointment
• Other Brand Names: Vectical

Calcitriol is a form of vitamin D.

Calcitriol topical (for the skin) is used to treat plaque psoriasis (raised, silvery flaking of the skin) in adults.

Calcitriol topical is not for use in treating severe forms of psoriasis (with pus, skin peeling, severe redness).

Calcitriol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: telotristat
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Xermelo

Used (in combination with somatostatin analog therapy) for treatment of carcinoid syndrome diarrhea inadequately controlled by somatostatin analog therapy alone (designated an orphan drug by FDA for the treatment of carcinoid syndrome in patients with neuroendocrine tumors).

Carcinoid syndrome, a condition associated with serotonin overproduction, is characterized by flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, occasionally congestive heart failure, and various other manifestations. Although somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide, lanreotide) are standard treatment for carcinoid syndrome and are effective initially in most patients, some patients may not respond adequately or may develop recurrent symptoms, including diarrhea, despite therapy.

In clinical studies, telotristat ethyl reduced the frequency of daily bowel movements in patients with carcinoid syndrome diarrhea. Reductions in other symptoms of carcinoid syndrome (e.g., abdominal pain, flushing) not observed.