Kenalog 0.1% Lotion 60ml
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid, Topical
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone lotion is a medicine applied to the skin to reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It works by calming down the body's inflammatory response in the skin.
How to Use This Medicine
Proper Use of This Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only on your skin, as directed. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Continue using the medication as instructed, even if your symptoms improve. Before and after applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. However, if you're applying the medication to your hand, do not wash it after use.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before application, and make sure it's completely dry. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Important Application Guidelines
Do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.
Avoid using bandages, dressings, or other coverings on the treated area unless directed by your doctor.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Before each use, shake the medication well.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. You may also want to check with your pharmacist about potential drug take-back programs in your area.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at once or use extra doses to make up for a missed one.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only on your skin, as directed. Avoid getting it in your mouth, nose, or eyes, as it may cause burning.
Continue using the medication as instructed, even if your symptoms improve. Before and after applying the medication, wash your hands thoroughly. However, if you're applying the medication to your hand, do not wash it after use.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before application, and make sure it's completely dry. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Important Application Guidelines
Do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.
Avoid using bandages, dressings, or other coverings on the treated area unless directed by your doctor.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Before each use, shake the medication well.
Storage and Disposal
Store the medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist. You may also want to check with your pharmacist about potential drug take-back programs in your area.
Missed Dose Instructions
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular application schedule. Do not apply two doses at once or use extra doses to make up for a missed one.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash hands before and after applying the lotion.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area only, gently rubbing it in until it disappears.
- Do not use more than directed or for longer than prescribed.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or tight dressings unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply thinly to affected area 2-3 times daily.
psoriasis:
Apply thinly to affected area 2-3 times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Apply sparingly to affected area once daily; use with caution due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Child:
Apply sparingly to affected area 1-2 times daily; use with caution due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic corticosteroid that possesses anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. It acts by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins, which control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor, arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A2.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption (typically <1%)
Tmax:
Not applicable (topical)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Renal, if systemically absorbed
Unchanged:
Not applicable
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours to days (local effect)
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks (local effect)
DurationOfAction:
Varies with application frequency and condition
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion
+ Feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Passing urine more often
+ Flushing
+ Fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or passing out
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling very tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
Irritation at the site where the medication was applied
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar, including:
+ Confusion
+ Feeling sleepy
+ Unusual thirst or hunger
+ Passing urine more often
+ Flushing
+ Fast breathing
+ Breath that smells like fruit
Signs of a weak adrenal gland, such as:
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
+ Severe dizziness or passing out
+ Muscle weakness
+ Feeling very tired
+ Mood changes
+ Decreased appetite
+ Weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome, including:
+ Weight gain in the upper back or belly
+ Moon face
+ Severe headache
+ Slow healing
Irritation at the site where the medication was applied
Skin changes, such as:
+ Pimples
+ Stretch marks
+ Slow healing
+ Hair growth
Change in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Skin irritation, burning, or itching that worsens
- New skin infections (e.g., pus, fever, spreading redness)
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth at the application site
- Any signs of systemic effects, though rare (e.g., unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, fatigue)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have to this medication, its components, or other substances, including foods and drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe use.
All your health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions or other drugs. Your doctor and pharmacist need to be aware of your complete medical profile to determine the safety of taking this medication.
Do not initiate, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. This precaution is vital to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have to this medication, its components, or other substances, including foods and drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe use.
All your health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions or other drugs. Your doctor and pharmacist need to be aware of your complete medical profile to determine the safety of taking this medication.
Do not initiate, stop, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor. This precaution is vital to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the prescribed duration of use, as specified by your doctor, and avoid using it for an extended period.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use. Exercise caution when applying this medication to a large area of skin, and discuss this with your doctor if necessary.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in children. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication for both you and your baby.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe use. Exercise caution when applying this medication to a large area of skin, and discuss this with your doctor if necessary.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If the patient is a child, use this medication with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be higher in children. In some cases, this medication may affect growth in children and teenagers, and regular growth checks may be necessary. Consult with your doctor to discuss this potential risk.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially over large areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic effects of corticosteroids, such as Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and adrenal suppression.
- Local symptoms may include severe skin thinning, striae, or telangiectasias.
What to Do:
Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. For severe systemic symptoms, seek emergency medical attention. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center).
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any signs of infection or contraindications.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Clinical response of dermatosis
Frequency: Regularly, as per physician's discretion (e.g., weekly to monthly)
Target: Reduction in inflammation, pruritus, erythema
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of condition warrants re-evaluation
Local adverse reactions (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, secondary infection)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit
Target: Absence of adverse effects
Action Threshold: Presence of adverse effects warrants dose reduction, discontinuation, or alternative therapy
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings
Target: Normal physiological parameters
Action Threshold: Any signs of systemic effects warrant immediate medical evaluation and discontinuation
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness or irritation at application site
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Itching that does not improve
- Development of new skin lesions (e.g., pimples, boils)
- Thinning of skin, easy bruising
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Changes in skin color
- Signs of infection (pus, fever, spreading redness)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (rare, systemic absorption)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is minimal but caution advised.
Second Trimester:
Minimal risk with appropriate topical use.
Third Trimester:
Minimal risk with appropriate topical use; theoretical risk of adrenal suppression in neonate with extensive maternal use.
Lactation
Caution advised. It is not known whether topical triamcinolone is excreted in human milk. Systemic corticosteroids are excreted in human milk. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use; potential for growth suppression or other adverse effects if significant systemic absorption occurs in the infant via breast milk or direct skin contact.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic adverse effects (e.g., HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, intracranial hypertension, growth retardation). Use the least potent effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe for use in geriatric patients. However, older patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local adverse effects like skin atrophy or purpura. Monitor for skin fragility.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Topical corticosteroids should be used for the shortest duration possible to achieve control of symptoms.
- Avoid prolonged use on the face, groin, or axillae, as these areas are more susceptible to skin atrophy and other local side effects.
- For conditions like psoriasis, consider pulse therapy or combination therapy to minimize long-term side effects.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: a thin film is sufficient; more is not better and increases risk of side effects.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for sensitive areas or long-term use
- Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (e.g., crisaborole)
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair
- Systemic therapies (e.g., oral corticosteroids, biologics) for severe, widespread conditions
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $50 per 60ml lotion
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.