Triamcinolone 0.1% Ointment 80gm
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 steroid medicine applied to the skin. It helps reduce redness, itching, and swelling caused by various skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
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, in which case you should not wash it after application.
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.
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, avoiding freezing.
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, in which case you should not wash it after application.
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.
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, avoiding freezing.
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 to the affected skin area and rub it in gently until it disappears. Do not use more than directed.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or other dressings unless specifically instructed by your doctor, as this can increase absorption and side effects.
- Avoid applying the ointment to the eyes, mouth, or inside the nose.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or armpits unless specifically directed by your doctor, as these areas are more susceptible to side effects.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially in children.
- If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not apply extra to make up for a missed dose.
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 a physician.
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 (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Infant:
Not established (use with extreme caution due to increased systemic absorption risk)
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily. Limit duration of therapy and amount applied. Avoid occlusive dressings. Monitor for systemic effects.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area 2 to 4 times daily.
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, as systemic absorption is minimal.
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; systemic absorption depends on the vehicle, integrity of the epidermal barrier, and use of occlusive dressings. Generally low systemic absorption from intact skin.
Tmax:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemic effects can occur over time with extensive use.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable for topical administration.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not well-defined for topical application; systemically absorbed corticosteroids are bound to plasma proteins, primarily corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin.
ProteinBinding:
High (for systemically absorbed portion)
CnssPenetration:
Limited (for systemically absorbed portion)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 2-5 hours (for systemically absorbed portion)
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical application.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (primarily as inactive metabolites), with some biliary excretion.
Unchanged:
Minimal
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours to days for symptomatic relief.
PeakEffect:
Variable, depends on condition and application frequency.
DurationOfAction:
Variable, generally lasts until next application or for several hours after application.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency 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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency 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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor for advice:
Burning
Itching
* Dry skin
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to 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 at the application site (signs of infection)
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation that worsens after application
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks in the treated area
- Unusual hair growth
- Acne-like rash
- Blurred vision or other eye problems (rare, but seek medical attention)
- Signs of systemic absorption with extensive use: unexplained weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, muscle weakness, fatigue, mood changes.
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.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of all possible interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications and health conditions before taking this drug. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first discussing it 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.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of all possible interactions. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications and health conditions before taking this drug. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first discussing it with your doctor.
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 use, as specified by your doctor, and avoid using it for an extended period.
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 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 breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication for 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 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 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 breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as they will need to weigh the benefits and risks of this medication for both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Prolonged or excessive use can lead to systemic effects due to absorption, including Cushing's syndrome (moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity), 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 (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)
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 or reduce frequency.
Signs of HPA axis suppression (e.g., fatigue, weakness, weight loss, hypotension)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive or prolonged use, or in pediatric patients.
Target: Normal adrenal function.
Action Threshold: If suspected, perform ACTH stimulation test or plasma cortisol levels. Discontinue or taper if confirmed.
Signs of infection (e.g., redness, warmth, pus)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit, or as symptoms arise.
Target: Absence of infection.
Action Threshold: If infection develops, discontinue triamcinolone and initiate appropriate antimicrobial 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
- Blurred vision or other visual disturbances (rare, indicative of systemic effects like cataracts or glaucoma)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Should be used 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 are limited and generally low risk.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution.
Third Trimester:
No specific risks identified beyond general corticosteroid effects; avoid prolonged use or large areas.
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 limited, short-term use. Potential for growth suppression or other adverse effects if significant systemic absorption occurs in the mother.
Pediatric Use
Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic adverse effects (e.g., HPA axis suppression, Cushing's syndrome, growth retardation) than adult patients. Use the least potent corticosteroid that is effective, for the shortest duration possible, and avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
No specific dosage adjustments are required. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local side effects like skin atrophy or purpura. Monitor for skin integrity.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment is a medium-potency topical corticosteroid. Ointments are generally more potent than creams for the same concentration due to increased penetration.
- Occlusive dressings significantly increase the absorption of topical corticosteroids and should be avoided unless specifically directed by a physician.
- Long-term use, especially on the face, intertriginous areas (skin folds), or in children, can lead to skin atrophy, telangiectasias, striae, and perioral dermatitis.
- Patients should be advised to use the smallest amount necessary to cover the affected area and to avoid applying to healthy skin.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, the diagnosis should be re-evaluated.
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 for dry skin conditions
- Systemic therapies for severe dermatoses (e.g., biologics, methotrexate, cyclosporine)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$20 - $60 per 80gm tube
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 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 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 seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.