Triamcinolone 0.1% Cream 80gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid, Topical
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
May 1958
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone cream is a type of medicine called a corticosteroid. It works by reducing inflammation, redness, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and allergic reactions. It helps to calm down your skin's immune response.
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 that hand after use.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before application, and make sure it's completely dry. Then, 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 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 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.
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 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 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 applying the medication to your hand, do not wash that hand after use.
Prepare the affected area by cleaning it before application, and make sure it's completely dry. Then, 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 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 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.
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 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 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 your eyes, mouth, or inside your nose.
- 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.
- Do not use on broken, infected, or open skin without consulting 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 2 to 4 times daily.
Dose Range:
2 - 4 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
occlusiveDressing:
Not recommended unless directed by physician due to increased systemic absorption.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression)
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily, use with caution and for shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily, use with caution and for shortest duration possible. 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 (variable, depends on skin integrity, vehicle, duration, and area of application)
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical application (systemic levels are generally undetectable or very low)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not available (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not available (minimal systemic absorption, but systemic corticosteroids bind to plasma proteins)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not precisely determined for topical application (systemic half-life of triamcinolone is approximately 2-5 hours)
Clearance:
Not available (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (if systemically absorbed)
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief
PeakEffect:
Variable, depends on condition and application
DurationOfAction:
Variable, depends on condition and 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 immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction: 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, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Irritation at the site of application
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning sensation
Itching
* Dry skin
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other 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: 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, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of high blood sugar: confusion, drowsiness, unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath
Signs of a weak adrenal gland: severe nausea or vomiting, severe dizziness or fainting, muscle weakness, extreme fatigue, mood changes, decreased appetite, or weight loss
Signs of Cushing's syndrome: weight gain in the upper back or abdomen, moon face, severe headache, or slow wound healing
Irritation at the site of application
Skin changes: acne, stretch marks, slow healing, or excessive hair growth
Changes in skin color
Thinning of the skin
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning sensation
Itching
* Dry skin
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other 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 your skin condition or no improvement after 2 weeks.
- Signs of a skin infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, pus, fever).
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation where you applied the cream.
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, or stretch marks developing.
- Unusual hair growth at the application site.
- Acne-like breakouts.
- If you experience any signs of systemic absorption, such as unusual weight gain, swelling in your face, or extreme tiredness, contact your doctor immediately.
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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, natural products, and vitamins.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
This medication can interact with other drugs and health problems, so it is crucial to discuss your individual situation with your doctor. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety. Your doctor and pharmacist need to know about all your medications and health problems to determine if it is safe for you to take this medication.
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 symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, natural products, and vitamins.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
This medication can interact with other drugs and health problems, so it is crucial to discuss your individual situation with your doctor. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor to ensure your safety. Your doctor and pharmacist need to know about all your medications and health problems to determine if it is safe for you to take this medication.
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 an extended period beyond what your doctor has recommended.
Before using any other medications or skin products, 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 increased 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 skin products, 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 increased 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:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially over large areas or under occlusive dressings, can lead to systemic effects of corticosteroids, including:
- Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, central obesity, buffalo hump)
- Adrenal suppression (fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure)
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Growth retardation in children
What to Do:
If you suspect an overdose or systemic effects, stop using the cream and contact your doctor or poison control center immediately. Call 1-800-222-1222.
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
Efficacy of treatment (reduction in inflammation, pruritus)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may indicate need for re-evaluation or alternative therapy.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, folliculitis, burning, itching)
Frequency: Regularly during treatment
Target: Absence of or minimal adverse effects
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse effects may require discontinuation or change in therapy.
Signs of systemic absorption (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive or prolonged use, or in pediatric patients
Target: Normal physiological parameters
Action Threshold: Any signs of systemic effects warrant immediate medical evaluation and potential discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Signs of skin infection (redness, pus, fever)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at application site
- Skin thinning, easy bruising, striae (stretch marks)
- Increased hair growth at application site
- Acne-like eruptions
- Changes in vision (rare, with prolonged high-dose use)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (signs of adrenal suppression)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Category C.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Limited data, but systemic absorption is minimal. Avoid extensive use.
Second Trimester:
Limited data, but systemic absorption is minimal. Avoid extensive use.
Third Trimester:
Limited data, but systemic absorption is minimal. Avoid 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 appropriate use (minimal systemic absorption), but monitor for potential effects if extensive use.
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 for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are typically needed. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin and be more prone to skin atrophy or purpura, so monitor for these effects.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.1% cream is a medium-potency topical corticosteroid.
- Always apply a thin layer; more cream does not mean better results and increases the risk of side effects.
- Avoid prolonged use on the face, groin, or axillae due to increased risk of skin atrophy and striae.
- If an infection is present, it should be treated concurrently with an appropriate antimicrobial agent.
- Patients should be advised to contact their physician if no improvement is seen after 2 weeks of treatment.
- For conditions requiring long-term management, consider intermittent therapy or step-down to lower potency corticosteroids to minimize side effects.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Topical phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors (e.g., crisaborole) for eczema
- Emollients and moisturizers
- Antihistamines (for pruritus)
- Systemic therapies (for severe or widespread conditions)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $40 per 80gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (most insurance plans)
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 medication, including the amount taken and the time it happened, to ensure you receive the best possible care.