What is Enstilar Foam?
Enstilar Foam is a topical treatment to treat psoriasis in adults. This foam contains calcipotriol and betamethasone to help to bring the rate of skin cell growth back to normal in addition to reducing inflammation.
How to use this product
Always use Enstilar Foam exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as your doctor / Chemist4U pharmacist has told you. For external use only. First, shake the can well. Apply the foam by holding the can at least 3 cm from the skin and spray directly onto each affected area. Gently rub the foam into each affected skin area.
If using on the scalp, scoop the foam onto your finger and apply it directly to the affected areas. Minimise applying it into your hair to make it easier to wash out. Gently rub the foam into the scalp. After applying the foam, put the cap on the can to prevent accidental spraying when not in use.
Wash your hands well after use. This will avoid accidentally spreading the foam to other parts of your body (especially the face, mouth and eyes). In order to achieve optimal effect, it’s recommended that the hair is not washed immediately after application. Let the foam remain on the scalp during the night or during the day.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition that results in flaky, scale-like patches of skin, typically on the elbows, knees, scalp and lower back, but they can appear anywhere. On brown, black and white skin the patches can look pink or red, and the scales white or silvery. On brown and black skin the patches can also look purple or dark brown, and the scales may look grey.
Those with psoriasis have an increased production of skin cells. Usually, skin cells are made and replaced every 3-4 weeks. However, if you have psoriasis, this process is quicker, with it only taking around 3-7 days. This build-up of skin cells is the reason for those scaly patches. It’s not fully understood what causes psoriasis, but it’s thought to be related to a problem with the immune system.
Is Enstilar Foam suitable for children?
No, Enstilar Foam is not suitable for children under the age of 18. If you’re looking for a psoriasis treatment for your child, it’s recommended that you speak to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist for advice on alternative treatment options.
Is Enstilar Foam suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, you must ask your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist for advice before using any new products.
When should this product not be used?
Enstilar Foam may be unsuitable for certain people. Do not use this foam if you are allergic to calcipotriol or betamethasone or any of the other listed ingredients. Do not use this product if you have any of the following:
- If you have problems with calcium levels in your blood
- If you have certain types of psoriasis called ‘erythrodermic psoriasis’ or ‘pustular psoriasis’
As Enstilar Foam contains a strong steroid, do ot use it on skin areas affected by:
- Skin infections caused by viruses (e.g. cold sores or chicken pox)
- Skin infections caused by a fungus (e.g. athlete’s foot and ringworm)
- Skin infections caused by bacteria
- Skin infections caused by parasites (e.g. scabies)
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Perioral dermatitis (red rash around the mouth)
- Thin skin
- Easily damaged veins
- Stretch marks
- Ichthyosis (dry skin with fish-like scales)
- Acne (pimples)
- Rosacea (severe flushing or redness of the skin on the face)
- Ulcers and wounds
Talk to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking this medicine if you have any of the following:
- You have diabetes
- You are using other medicines that contain steroids, as you may get side effects
- You have a certain type of psoriasis called guttate psoriasis.
Are there any side effects?
Like all medicines, Enstilar Foam may cause side effects in some people, but these won’t affect everybody. Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any signs of a severe allergic reaction, symptoms of which include swelling of the face and throat, skin rash, breathing difficulties and/or loss of consciousness. Side effects may include:
- Thinning of the skin
- Stretch marks
- Blood vessels under your skin may become more noticeable
- Changes in hair growth
- Red rash around the mouth (perioral dermatitis)
- Worsening of your psoriasis
- Sensitivity of the skin to light resulting in a rash
- Itchy skin rash (eczema)
- White or grey hair can transiently change to a yellowish colour at the application site when used on the scalp
For more information on potential side effects, refer to the patient information leaflet. If you experience any side effects, including any not included in the patient information leaflet, you can report them using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
Storage information
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date, referring to the last day of the month stated on the packaging. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste.
Important information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist4U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk
If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.
Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.
Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.
Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.
Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction
For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.
If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:
