Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 15gm
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 1961
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Triamcinolone ointment is a type of medicine called a corticosteroid. It works by reducing redness, swelling, and itching caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. It helps calm down your skin's overactive 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 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 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.
Do not use bandages, dressings, or other coverings unless your doctor advises you to do so.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, avoid using 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 guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
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.
Clean the affected area before applying the medication, and make sure it is 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.
Do not use bandages, dressings, or other coverings unless your doctor advises you to do so.
If the treated area is in the diaper region, avoid using 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 guidance on the best way to dispose of medications, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.
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 your hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected skin area, gently rubbing it in 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 applying the ointment to your eyes, mouth, or inside your nose.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed or on large areas of the body 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 two to four times daily, or as directed by a physician.
Dose Range:
2 - 4 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply 2-4 times daily.
eczema:
Apply 2-4 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 two to four times daily, or as directed by a physician. Use with caution; avoid prolonged use or large surface areas due to increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily, or as directed by a physician. Use with caution; avoid prolonged use or large surface areas due to increased risk of systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily, or as directed by a physician.
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:
Minimal systemic absorption (typically <1%) through intact skin; absorption increases with inflammation, skin barrier disruption, occlusion, and application to large surface areas.
Tmax:
Not applicable for typical topical use; systemic absorption is minimal and variable.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical use.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for typical topical use; if systemically absorbed, distributes widely.
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable for typical topical use; if systemically absorbed, binds to plasma proteins.
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if systemically absorbed).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable for typical topical use; systemic half-life of absorbed drug is variable.
Clearance:
Not applicable for typical topical use.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal (if systemically absorbed).
Unchanged:
Minimal (if systemically absorbed).
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Hours to days for noticeable symptomatic relief.
PeakEffect:
Days to weeks of consistent application.
DurationOfAction:
Varies with frequency of application; local effects persist 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 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
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 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
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 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 your skin condition or no improvement after a few days/weeks.
- Signs of skin infection (e.g., increased redness, pus, fever).
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site.
- Skin thinning, stretch marks, or changes in skin color where the ointment is applied.
- Unusual fatigue, weakness, or dizziness (rare, but could 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 is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications and health conditions to your doctor and pharmacist.
* Any health problems you have, as this information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication.
Remember, it is vital to consult with your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication. Do not make any changes to your medication regimen without first discussing it with your doctor to ensure your safety.
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 is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications and health conditions to your doctor and pharmacist.
* Any health problems you have, as this information will help your doctor determine if it is safe for you to take this medication.
Remember, it is vital to consult with your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication. Do not make any changes to your medication regimen without first discussing it with your doctor to ensure your safety.
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 any concerns with your doctor.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If you are treating a child with this drug, use it with caution, as children may be at a higher risk for certain side effects. 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 breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both 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 any concerns with your doctor.
Using this medication too frequently can exacerbate your skin condition. If you are treating a child with this drug, use it with caution, as children may be at a higher risk for certain side effects. 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 breastfeeding, inform your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use, especially on large areas, broken skin, or under occlusion, can lead to systemic absorption and symptoms of hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome), including: moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity, thinning skin, easy bruising, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and growth retardation in children.
- Acute overdose is unlikely with topical application.
What to Do:
Discontinue use gradually under medical supervision. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) for advice if significant systemic symptoms are suspected.
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
Frequency: Periodically, typically every 1-4 weeks depending on condition severity.
Target: Reduction in inflammation, pruritus, and lesion size.
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, perioral dermatitis)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, especially with prolonged use.
Target: Absence of or minimal skin changes.
Action Threshold: Presence of significant skin atrophy or other adverse effects warrants discontinuation or reduction in potency/frequency.
Signs of secondary infection
Frequency: At each follow-up visit.
Target: Absence of signs of bacterial, fungal, or viral infection.
Action Threshold: Presence of infection requires appropriate antimicrobial therapy and potential discontinuation of triamcinolone.
Signs of HPA axis suppression (rare with appropriate topical use)
Frequency: Consider for prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings, especially in children.
Target: Normal cortisol levels.
Action Threshold: Symptoms like fatigue, weakness, weight loss, or abnormal cortisol levels require immediate medical attention and discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness, swelling, or pain (signs of infection)
- Thinning of skin
- Easy bruising
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Acne-like eruptions
- Increased hair growth at application site
- Fatigue, weakness, dizziness (rare, signs of systemic absorption/HPA axis suppression)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Category C. Avoid large areas, prolonged use, or occlusive dressings.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity with high systemic doses; topical absorption is minimal but caution advised.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution.
Third Trimester:
No specific risks identified beyond general corticosteroid effects; avoid near term if possible to prevent potential neonatal adrenal suppression.
Lactation
Use with caution. It is not known whether topical corticosteroids are excreted in human milk. Systemic absorption is minimal, so risk to infant is low. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent direct infant exposure.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with appropriate use (minimal systemic absorption).
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. Prolonged use and occlusive dressings should be avoided. Growth retardation has been reported. Use the least potent effective corticosteroid for the shortest duration possible.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. Elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could potentially increase systemic absorption, but generally, topical triamcinolone is well-tolerated in this population. Monitor for skin atrophy.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment is a medium-potency topical corticosteroid, suitable for chronic, dry, scaly lesions.
- Ointments are generally more potent than creams or lotions of the same concentration due to increased penetration and occlusion.
- Avoid use on the face, groin, or axillae unless specifically directed by a physician, as these areas are more prone to adverse effects like skin atrophy and striae.
- Do not use for fungal or bacterial infections without concomitant appropriate antimicrobial therapy, as corticosteroids can mask or worsen infections.
- Patients should be advised to use the smallest amount necessary to cover the affected area and to avoid prolonged continuous use to minimize the risk of local and systemic side effects.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, clobetasol)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Topical vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriene) for psoriasis
- Emollients and moisturizers
- Systemic therapies for severe conditions (e.g., biologics, oral immunosuppressants)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $40 per 15gm 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 promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, 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 this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with 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 occurred.