calcipotriene + halobetasol

Calcipotriene + halobetasol is a topical combination therapy used primarily for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Calcipotriene is a synthetic vitamin D3 analog that regulates skin cell production and differentiation, while halobetasol is a superpotent topical corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching. The combination has been shown to be more effective than either agent alone in achieving rapid clearance of psoriatic plaques. Typically, calcipotriene is applied in the morning and halobetasol in the evening for short-term intensive therapy; this regimen can induce remission and maintain disease control over time[1][2][7]. The two drugs act via distinct mechanisms—calcipotriene modulates keratinocyte proliferation through vitamin D receptor activation, while halobetasol suppresses inflammatory gene expression by binding to glucocorticoid receptors.