Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 30gm
It is used to treat skin rashes and other skin irritation.
Drug Class
Corticosteroid, Topical
Pharmacologic Class
Glucocorticoid Receptor Agonist
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 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 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 directed by your doctor, avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers and 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.
Storage and Disposal
Store this 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. If you have questions about disposal, 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 directed by your doctor, avoid applying the medication to your face, underarms, or groin area.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages, dressings, or tight-fitting diapers and 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.
Storage and Disposal
Store this 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. If you have questions about disposal, 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 your hands before and after applying the ointment.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area and rub it in gently.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless directed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying to the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially on children, as it can lead to thinning skin or other side effects.
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
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.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
psoriasis:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
eczema:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established. Use with extreme caution due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression.
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily. Use with extreme caution due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression. Avoid prolonged use or large surface areas.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily. Use with caution due to increased risk of systemic absorption and adrenal suppression. Avoid prolonged use or large surface areas.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for topical use due to 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:
Not well-quantified due to variable and minimal systemic absorption; absorption increases with occlusive dressings, inflamed skin, and in children.
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical application; systemic levels are generally undetectable or very low.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-quantified due to minimal systemic absorption; if absorbed, distributes throughout the body.
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 60-80% (if systemically absorbed, similar to other corticosteroids).
CnssPenetration:
Limited (if systemically absorbed).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-quantified for topical application; systemic half-life of triamcinolone is approximately 2-5 hours.
Clearance:
Not well-quantified for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily renal (if systemically absorbed).
Unchanged:
Not well-quantified for topical application.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours of application for anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects.
PeakEffect:
Within 12-24 hours.
DurationOfAction:
Up to 24 hours per 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. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
Reporting Side Effects
This is not a comprehensive list of all 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. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
Reporting Side Effects
This is not a comprehensive list of all 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 in the treated area
- Unusual hair growth
- Acne-like rash
- Changes in skin color
- If used extensively or for prolonged periods, watch for signs of systemic effects like weight gain, swelling in the face, or unusual fatigue (especially in children).
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, its components, or other substances, including foods and drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the 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 to avoid potential interactions.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor. It is your responsibility to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Your doctor and pharmacist will work together to help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have to this medication, its components, or other substances, including foods and drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the 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 to avoid potential interactions.
* Any health problems you have, as they may affect the safety and efficacy of this medication.
To ensure your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor. It is your responsibility to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Your doctor and pharmacist will work together to help you make informed decisions about your treatment.
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 you are a parent or caregiver of a child using this medication, be aware that children may be at a higher risk for certain side effects, and use this drug with caution. 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 using this medication to 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 you are a parent or caregiver of a child using this medication, be aware that children may be at a higher risk for certain side effects, and use this drug with caution. 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 using this medication to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic absorption, potentially causing symptoms of hypercorticism (Cushing's syndrome), including: moon face, central obesity, striae, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and adrenal suppression.
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication 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 any signs of infection or skin breakdown.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Local skin reactions (e.g., atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, burning, itching, irritation)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, or as symptoms arise.
Target: Absence of new or worsening reactions.
Action Threshold: If severe or persistent reactions occur, discontinue use and reassess.
Signs of systemic corticosteroid effects (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use, large surface areas, or occlusive dressings.
Target: Absence of signs/symptoms.
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform appropriate diagnostic tests (e.g., plasma cortisol, ACTH stimulation test) and consider discontinuation.
Signs of secondary infection (bacterial, fungal)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, or as symptoms arise.
Target: Absence of infection.
Action Threshold: If infection develops, initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy; discontinue triamcinolone if infection is not controlled.
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
- Weight gain
- Moon face
- Fatigue
- 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 with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is minimal but caution advised.
Second Trimester:
Minimal systemic absorption, but prolonged or extensive use should be avoided.
Third Trimester:
Minimal systemic absorption, but prolonged or extensive use should be avoided.
Lactation
L3 (Moderate risk). It is not known whether topical corticosteroids are excreted in human milk. Systemic corticosteroids are excreted into human milk. Caution should be exercised when triamcinolone acetonide ointment is administered to a nursing woman. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk with proper application due to minimal systemic absorption, but monitor for potential effects.
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. Avoid prolonged use, large surface areas, and occlusive dressings. Monitor for growth retardation, delayed weight gain, and low plasma cortisol levels.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. Elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local side effects like skin atrophy or purpura. Use with caution and monitor skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment is a medium-potency topical corticosteroid.
- Ointments are generally more potent and occlusive than creams, making them suitable for dry, scaly lesions.
- Advise patients to apply a very thin layer; a little goes a long way.
- Educate patients on the signs of skin atrophy (thinning, shininess, visible blood vessels) and to report them.
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation after prolonged use on large areas, as this can lead to rebound flares of the skin condition.
- Not for use on infected skin without concomitant antimicrobial therapy.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, clobetasol propionate, betamethasone)
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for eczema
- Vitamin D analogs (e.g., calcipotriene) for psoriasis
- Emollients and moisturizers for dry skin conditions
- Systemic therapies for severe dermatoses (e.g., methotrexate, biologics)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$15 - $40 per 30gm tube
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 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 help healthcare professionals provide the best possible care.