Triamcinolone 0.025% Ointment 15gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone ointment is a type of medicine called a corticosteroid. It works by reducing swelling, itching, and redness caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It's applied directly to 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.
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.
Avoid applying the medication to the face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Special Precautions
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 the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
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 information on drug take-back programs 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 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.
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.
Avoid applying the medication to the face, underarms, or groin area unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Special Precautions
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 the body.
Do not use this medication to treat diaper rash.
Avoid applying the medication to cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin.
Storage and Disposal
Store this medication at room temperature, away from freezing temperatures.
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 information on drug take-back programs 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 extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Wash your hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin film of the ointment to the affected skin area. Do not use more than directed.
- Rub it in gently until it disappears.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
- Avoid getting the ointment in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on mucous membranes. If it gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your doctor.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially in children, as it can lead to side effects.
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, or as directed by physician.
Dose Range:
2 - 4 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily.
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily, with caution due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily, with caution due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily, similar to adults, but monitor for systemic effects.
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.
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 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:
Variable (generally low, but increased with occlusion, broken skin, or large surface areas)
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic effects are slow if absorption occurs.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application; if absorbed systemically, distributes widely.
ProteinBinding:
Not well-defined for topical application; if absorbed systemically, binds to plasma proteins.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (systemic absorption is minimal)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic half-life of absorbed drug is approximately 2-5 hours.
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily as metabolites), some biliary.
Unchanged:
Minimal
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours to days for noticeable anti-inflammatory effects.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with application frequency and condition, generally lasts for hours after application.
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 medical attention immediately:
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 may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact 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 medical attention immediately:
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 may not experience any side effects or may only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact 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:
- Increased redness, swelling, or pus (signs of infection)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like rash or increased hair growth in the treated area
- Any signs of systemic absorption, such as unusual weight gain, swelling in the face (moon face), fatigue, or muscle weakness (rare with proper topical use).
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, 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.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to:
Verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions.
* Consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, 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.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to:
Verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions.
* Consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one.
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 are 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 are 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:
- Chronic overuse or misuse can lead to systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, striae, hypertension, hyperglycemia), adrenal suppression, growth retardation in children, and cataracts/glaucoma.
- Acute overdose is unlikely with topical application.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any contraindications (e.g., active infection).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Weekly to bi-weekly initially, then as needed.
Target: Improvement in symptoms.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse effects (skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, perioral dermatitis)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit.
Target: Absence of significant adverse effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse effects may require dose reduction, discontinuation, or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive use, occlusion, or in pediatric patients.
Target: Absence of systemic effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of systemic effects requires immediate medical attention and discontinuation of therapy.
Symptom Monitoring
- Burning
- Itching
- Irritation
- Dryness
- Folliculitis
- Hypertrichosis
- Acneiform eruptions
- Hypopigmentation
- Perioral dermatitis
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Maceration of the skin
- Secondary infection
- Skin atrophy
- Striae
- Miliaria
- Unusual weight gain
- Moon face
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large amounts, prolonged use, or application to large surface areas.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity, though data for topical corticosteroids is limited and generally low risk.
Second Trimester:
Risk of fetal growth restriction or adrenal suppression with high doses or prolonged use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of fetal adrenal suppression with high doses or prolonged use.
Lactation
Use with caution. It is not known whether topical administration of corticosteroids could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with proper use, but monitor infant for potential adverse effects if significant maternal absorption occurs (e.g., growth suppression).
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients may demonstrate greater susceptibility to topical corticosteroid-induced HPA axis suppression and Cushing's syndrome than mature patients because of a larger skin surface area to body weight ratio. Use the least potent effective corticosteroid for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusion.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. However, elderly 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 triamcinolone 0.025% ointment is a low-to-medium potency corticosteroid, suitable for chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
- Ointments are generally more potent than creams or lotions of the same concentration due to increased penetration and occlusion.
- Educate patients on the 'thin film' application technique to minimize side effects and maximize efficacy.
- Avoid prolonged use on the face, intertriginous areas (skin folds), or in children due to increased risk of local and systemic side effects.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis or treatment plan.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinolone, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Topical vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriene) for psoriasis
- Emollients and moisturizers for dry skin conditions
- Systemic therapies for severe conditions (e.g., methotrexate, biologics)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 per 15gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (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 emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.