Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 80gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
May 1958
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone cream 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 immune 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 as directed, and continue to use it even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, avoiding the mouth, nose, and eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area, in which case you should not wash it after application.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication, and make sure it is completely dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not apply this medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Avoid using bandages, dressings, or other coverings unless your doctor advises you to do so.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing.
Keep all medications in a safe place, 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. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
* Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Use this medication only as directed, and continue to use it even if your symptoms improve.
Application Instructions
Apply this medication only to your skin, avoiding the mouth, nose, and eyes, as it may cause burning.
Wash your hands before and after applying the medication, unless your hand is the treated area, in which case you should not wash it after application.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication, and make sure it is completely dry.
Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Do not apply this medication to your face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Avoid using bandages, dressings, or other coverings unless your doctor advises you to do so.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying this medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, avoiding freezing.
Keep all medications in a safe place, 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. Check with your pharmacist for guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in a drug take-back program in your area.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
* Do not apply two doses at the same time or use extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area, gently rubbing it in until it disappears.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or tight dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by a doctor, as these areas are more sensitive to side effects.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Triamcinolone 0.5% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.5% Oint 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 30gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 454gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Cream 80gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 80gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 100gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 63gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 30gm
- Triamcinolone 55mcg Nasalsp (120)
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml, 1ml
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 63gm
- Triamcinolone Topical Spray 100gm
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone Ace 0.05% Oint 430gm
- Triamcinolone Ace 40mg/ml, 5ml
- Triamcin Ace 40mg/ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 0.025% Lotion 60ml
- Triamcinolone 400mg/10ml Inj, 10ml
- Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 454gm
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily, depending on severity and formulation.
Dose Range:
2 - 4 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply 2-3 times daily
psoriasis:
Apply 2-4 times daily
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution, increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1-2 times daily. Use smallest effective amount for shortest duration. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1-2 times daily. Use smallest effective amount for shortest duration. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2-3 times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid. It exerts its anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive actions by inducing phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins. These proteins 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 <1-5%), but can increase with damaged skin, inflammation, occlusion, or large surface areas.
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical formulation.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for topical formulation due to minimal systemic absorption.
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 60-70% (systemic absorption, if any).
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal (if systemically absorbed).
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application for maximal therapeutic effect.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with formulation and frequency of application; typically 12-24 hours per application.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical help right away:
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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to 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:
- Worsening of the skin condition or no improvement after a few days/weeks of use.
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site.
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., pus, spreading redness, fever).
- Development of new skin problems like thinning skin, stretch marks, acne, or excessive hair growth.
- Unusual fatigue, weight gain, or swelling (rare, but can indicate systemic absorption).
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, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of all possible interactions or health concerns. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications and health issues before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one. Always check with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of all possible interactions or health concerns. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications and health issues before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one. Always check with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.
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 treatment and do not use this drug for longer than recommended by your doctor.
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 drug 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. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the best possible outcome for 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 drug 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. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially over large areas or under occlusion, can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression).
- Local symptoms include severe skin thinning, stretch marks, and increased susceptibility to infection.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for advice.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition and extent of affected area
Rationale: To establish baseline severity and guide treatment duration.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus, erythema)
Frequency: Weekly to bi-weekly during initial treatment, then as needed
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may require re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse effects (skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, perioral dermatitis, hypertrichosis)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit
Target: Absence of new or worsening adverse effects
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse effects may require dose reduction, discontinuation, or change in therapy.
Signs of infection (bacterial, fungal, viral)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit
Target: Absence of infection
Action Threshold: Presence of infection requires appropriate antimicrobial treatment and possible discontinuation of corticosteroid.
Signs of systemic absorption (rare: Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings
Target: Absence of systemic effects
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform appropriate laboratory tests (e.g., plasma cortisol, ACTH stimulation test) and consider discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, itching, or burning at application site
- Development of new skin lesions (e.g., pimples, thinning skin, stretch marks)
- Signs of skin infection (pus, fever, spreading redness)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (rare, indicative of 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, though systemic absorption is minimal.
Second Trimester:
Risk of HPA axis suppression in the fetus with high doses or prolonged use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of HPA axis suppression in the fetus with high doses or prolonged use.
Lactation
It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Use with caution. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use due to minimal systemic absorption. Monitor infant for potential adverse effects if used on large areas or for prolonged periods.
Pediatric Use
Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic adverse effects, including HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome. Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest duration. Avoid occlusive dressings. Monitor growth and development.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may have thinner skin and be more susceptible to local adverse effects such as skin atrophy, purpura, and telangiectasias. Use with caution and monitor for skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.025% is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for sensitive areas (e.g., face, intertriginous areas) or for maintenance therapy.
- Educate patients on the 'less is more' principle: a thin layer is sufficient. Over-application does not increase efficacy but increases risk of side effects.
- Warn patients about potential for skin atrophy, especially with prolonged use or on thin skin areas.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, re-evaluate diagnosis or consider a different treatment.
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use on large areas, as this can lead to rebound flares; taper off if necessary.
Alternative Therapies
- Hydrocortisone (lower potency topical corticosteroid)
- Fluocinolone acetonide (similar potency topical corticosteroid)
- Betamethasone valerate (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Mometasone furoate (medium potency topical corticosteroid)
- Tacrolimus ointment (non-steroidal calcineurin inhibitor)
- Pimecrolimus cream (non-steroidal calcineurin inhibitor)
- Crisaborole ointment (PDE4 inhibitor)
- Emollients and moisturizers (for barrier repair and hydration)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $50 per 80gm tube of 0.025% cream
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 your 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 taken, the amount, and the time it happened.