Triamcinolone 0.025% Lotion 60ml
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Aug 1958
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone lotion is a medicine applied to the skin to reduce redness, itching, and swelling caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids.
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 treating a skin condition on your hand, do not wash your hand after application.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before use and drying it well. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body. Additionally, do not use this medication to treat diaper rash, and avoid applying it to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Before each use, shake the medication well.
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. If you have questions about disposing of medications, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it's 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 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 treating a skin condition on your hand, do not wash your hand after application.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before use and drying it well. Apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected skin and gently rub it in. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, do not apply the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this may increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body. Additionally, do not use this medication to treat diaper rash, and avoid applying it to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin. Before each use, shake the medication well.
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. If you have questions about disposing of medications, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of drug take-back programs in your area.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it's 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 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 and rub in gently.
- 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 plastic wrap unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. Rinse thoroughly if contact occurs.
- Do not use on broken or infected skin unless directed by a doctor.
- 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.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily.
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily, for short durations. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily, for short durations. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 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 specific considerations (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 (varies with skin integrity, vehicle, and occlusion)
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application
ProteinBinding:
Not well-defined for topical application (systemically, corticosteroids are highly protein bound)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application (systemically, ~2-5 hours)
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (for systemically absorbed drug)
Unchanged:
Not significant for topical use
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief
PeakEffect:
Within days of consistent application
DurationOfAction:
Varies with frequency of application and severity of 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
Most people do not experience significant side effects, but some may occur. If you notice 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 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
Most people do not experience significant side effects, but some may occur. If you notice 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 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:
- Worsening of skin condition
- Signs of skin infection (redness, swelling, pus, fever)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation after application
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like rash
- Increased hair growth on treated areas
- Changes in skin color
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (rare, signs of 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 to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, including foods and 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 is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to disclose all drugs and health issues to your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe use.
Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with other drugs or exacerbate existing conditions. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess potential interactions and ensure it is safe for you to take this medication.
Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to avoid potential adverse interactions or complications.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have to this medication, any of its components, or other substances, including foods and 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 is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to disclose all drugs and health issues to your doctor and pharmacist to ensure safe use.
Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with other drugs or exacerbate existing conditions. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to assess potential interactions and ensure it is safe for you to take this medication.
Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor to avoid potential adverse interactions or complications.
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 treatment duration, and do not use this drug for an extended period beyond what your doctor has recommended.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment. 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 are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication during these situations, and your doctor will help you make an informed decision regarding your treatment and the potential impact on your baby.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment. 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 are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of using this medication during these situations, and your doctor will help you make an informed decision regarding your treatment and the potential impact on your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic effects due to absorption, including: Cushing's syndrome (moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity), hyperglycemia, glucosuria, adrenal suppression, growth retardation in children.
What to Do:
Discontinue use gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) for advice.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify areas for treatment.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Clinical response (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly)
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms after 1-2 weeks; consider alternative diagnosis or treatment.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment
Target: Absence of adverse reactions
Action Threshold: Presence of adverse reactions; reduce frequency, discontinue, or switch to lower potency steroid.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive use, prolonged use, or in pediatric patients
Target: Absence of systemic effects
Action Threshold: Presence of systemic effects; discontinue or taper therapy, consult endocrinologist.
Symptom Monitoring
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Pain
- Skin thinning
- Stretch marks
- Acne-like eruptions
- Increased hair growth
- Changes in skin color
- Signs of infection (pus, fever)
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 data for topical steroids is limited and generally low risk.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution.
Third Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth retardation or adrenal suppression with extensive or prolonged use.
Lactation
Use with caution. It is not known whether topical triamcinolone is excreted in human milk. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use (minimal systemic absorption), but monitor for potential effects.
Pediatric Use
Children 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, growth retardation). Use the least potent effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
Generally safe. Elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could theoretically increase absorption, but systemic effects are still rare. Monitor for skin atrophy and fragility.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.025% lotion is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for mild to moderate dermatoses, and often preferred for sensitive areas like the face or intertriginous zones.
- Lotion formulations are generally less occlusive and may be preferred for hairy areas or weeping lesions compared to creams or ointments.
- Educate patients on the 'less is more' principle for topical steroids to minimize side effects.
- Adrenal suppression is a rare but serious systemic side effect, especially with high-potency steroids, prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings. Monitor for signs if risk factors are present.
- Rebound flares can occur if topical steroids are stopped abruptly after prolonged use; gradual tapering may be necessary for chronic conditions.
Alternative Therapies
- Hydrocortisone (lower potency topical corticosteroid)
- Desonide (similar potency topical corticosteroid)
- Fluocinolone acetonide (similar potency topical corticosteroid)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus for eczema)
- Emollients and moisturizers (for barrier repair and symptom relief)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $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 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 emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.