Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 30gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Topical Corticosteroid
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jun 1961
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 dermatitis. It belongs to a class of drugs 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.
Important Usage Precautions
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body.
Avoid using this medication to treat diaper rash.
* Do not apply 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. 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 Instructions
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.
Important Usage Precautions
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants, as this can increase the amount of medication absorbed into your body.
Avoid using this medication to treat diaper rash.
* Do not apply 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. 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 Instructions
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 your hands before and after applying the cream.
- Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected skin area, gently rubbing it in until it disappears.
- Do not use more than directed or for longer than prescribed.
- Avoid applying the cream to the eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or armpits unless directed by your 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 two to four times daily, depending on the severity of the condition.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
dermatoses:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily. Use with caution; increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily. Use with caution; increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
Moderate:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
Severe:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical application.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
Moderate:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
Severe:
No adjustment typically needed for topical application.
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 vehicle, integrity of epidermal barrier, and use of occlusive dressings. Can be up to 1-5% or higher with damaged skin/occlusion.
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical application.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application due to minimal systemic absorption.
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 60-80% (if systemically absorbed).
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if systemically absorbed).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 2-5 hours (if systemically absorbed).
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal, if systemically absorbed.
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours for symptomatic relief (e.g., reduction in itching, redness).
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks for full therapeutic effect, depending on condition.
DurationOfAction:
Varies; typically requires multiple daily applications.
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 fainting
+ 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 help if they bother you or do not go away:
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 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 fainting
+ 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 help if they bother you or do not go away:
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 after application
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like breakouts or increased hair growth in the treated area
- Any signs of systemic side effects like unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, 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, 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.
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 with 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, 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.
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 with 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 drug with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be increased 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 are breast-feeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy or breast-feeding 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 drug with caution, as the risk of certain side effects may be increased 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 are breast-feeding, inform your doctor. It is crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy or breast-feeding to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome), including: moon face, central obesity, striae, easy bruising, muscle weakness, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, and suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison control advice.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis and identify any pre-existing skin infections or atrophy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus, erythema)
Frequency: Regularly, at follow-up visits (e.g., weekly to monthly depending on condition).
Target: Significant improvement in symptoms and appearance of affected skin.
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching, irritation)
Frequency: Regularly, at follow-up visits and patient self-monitoring.
Target: Absence or minimal local adverse effects.
Action Threshold: Presence of significant or worsening local adverse effects may require dose reduction, discontinuation, or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface area application, or occlusive dressings. Consider morning cortisol levels if HPA axis suppression is suspected.
Target: Normal physiological parameters.
Action Threshold: Any signs or symptoms of systemic absorption warrant immediate medical evaluation and potential 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
- Signs of Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, striae, easy bruising)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
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 corticosteroids are limited and generally low risk.
Second Trimester:
Risk of systemic absorption and potential fetal effects (e.g., growth retardation) with extensive use.
Third Trimester:
Risk of systemic absorption and potential fetal effects (e.g., growth retardation) with extensive 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 potential for systemic effects in infant if significant absorption occurs or if applied to breast.
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 corticosteroid that is effective. Limit duration of treatment and avoid occlusive dressings. Monitor for growth retardation.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are typically required. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin and be more prone to skin atrophy and other local side effects. Monitor for skin integrity and adverse reactions.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Topical triamcinolone is a medium-potency corticosteroid, suitable for various inflammatory dermatoses.
- Advise patients to apply a thin film and rub it in completely; excessive application does not improve efficacy but increases risk of side effects.
- Avoid prolonged use on the face, groin, or axillae, as these areas are more susceptible to corticosteroid-induced skin atrophy, telangiectasias, and striae.
- Be vigilant for signs of secondary infection, as corticosteroids can mask symptoms of infection.
- Educate patients on the importance of not using occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider, especially in pediatric patients, due to increased systemic absorption.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, betamethasone, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for certain inflammatory skin conditions
- Emollients and moisturizers for barrier repair
- Systemic therapies for severe or widespread conditions (e.g., oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $50 per 30gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is 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 it's a good idea 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 reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.