Triamcinolone 0.5% Oint 15gm
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 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 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.
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 or apply it 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
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.
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 or apply it 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
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 only, as directed by your doctor.
- Do not cover the treated area with bandages or tight dressings unless specifically told to by your doctor, as this can increase absorption.
- Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not use on the face, groin, or underarms unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
- Do not use for longer than prescribed, especially in children, as it can lead to side effects.
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.
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
Infant:
Apply a thin film to the affected area once daily for shortest duration possible. Avoid prolonged use and occlusive dressings.
Child:
Apply a thin film to the affected area once or twice daily for shortest duration possible. Avoid prolonged use and occlusive dressings.
Adolescent:
Apply a thin film to the affected area two to four times daily.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment typically needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment typically needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment typically needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations for topical use.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment typically needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment typically needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment typically needed 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:
Variable (dependent on skin integrity, vehicle, application site, and use of occlusive dressings)
Tmax:
Not applicable for topical use
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for topical use
ProteinBinding:
High (if systemically absorbed)
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not well-defined for topical use
Clearance:
Not well-defined for topical use
ExcretionRoute:
Renal (if systemically absorbed)
Unchanged:
Not available
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within hours of application
PeakEffect:
Not precisely defined for topical use, generally within days of consistent application
DurationOfAction:
Varies with formulation and frequency of 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 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. 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 symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
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.
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 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. 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 symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
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
- Severe burning, itching, or irritation at the application site
- Signs of a skin infection (e.g., pus, spreading redness, fever)
- Thinning of the skin, easy bruising, or stretch marks appearing where the ointment is applied
- Unusual fatigue, weight gain, or swelling in the face (rare, signs of too much medicine absorbed into the body)
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 treatment and do not use this drug for an extended period beyond what your doctor has recommended.
Before using any other medications or products on your skin, including soaps, consult with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment. 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 a parent or caregiver of a child using this medication, be aware that children may be more susceptible to certain side effects. 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 the potential risks and benefits.
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 and effective treatment. 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 a parent or caregiver of a child using this medication, be aware that children may be more susceptible to certain side effects. 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 the potential risks and benefits.
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:
- Rare with topical use, but prolonged or extensive use, especially under occlusion, can lead to systemic effects such as Cushing's syndrome (e.g., moon face, buffalo hump, central obesity), hyperglycemia, and HPA axis suppression (fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting).
What to Do:
Discontinue the medication. Symptomatic and supportive treatment. In case of suspected systemic overdose, contact a poison control center immediately (e.g., 1-800-222-1222 in the US) or seek emergency medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Skin condition assessment
Rationale: To establish baseline severity of dermatosis, presence of infection, and skin integrity.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Efficacy (reduction in inflammation, pruritus, erythema)
Frequency: Weekly or as clinically indicated
Target: Improvement in symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms may require re-evaluation of diagnosis or treatment.
Local adverse reactions (e.g., skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasias, folliculitis, burning, itching, irritation)
Frequency: At each follow-up visit
Target: Absence of or minimal adverse effects
Action Threshold: Presence of significant adverse effects may require dose reduction, discontinuation, or change in therapy.
Signs of secondary infection
Frequency: At each follow-up visit
Target: Absence of infection
Action Threshold: Presence of infection requires appropriate antimicrobial therapy and potential discontinuation of corticosteroid.
Signs of systemic absorption (rare, e.g., Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, HPA axis suppression)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with extensive use, prolonged use, or in pediatric patients
Target: Normal adrenal function
Action Threshold: Symptoms or signs of systemic absorption warrant immediate medical evaluation and discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Worsening of skin condition
- Increased redness or irritation at application site
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Thinning of skin
- Appearance of stretch marks (striae)
- Changes in skin color
- Pimples or folliculitis
- Signs of infection (pus, fever, increased pain)
- Unusual fatigue or weakness (rare, signs of systemic absorption)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large amounts or prolonged use.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for teratogenicity with high doses of systemic corticosteroids; topical absorption is generally low but caution is advised.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution and limit exposure.
Third Trimester:
No specific risks identified beyond general corticosteroid effects; avoid large amounts or prolonged use.
Lactation
L2 (Safer). Compatible with breastfeeding, but caution is advised. Avoid applying to the breast area to prevent infant ingestion.
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects to the infant due to minimal systemic absorption. Monitor infant for any unusual signs.
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients 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. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Avoid occlusive dressings.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are typically needed. However, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could increase the risk of local adverse effects like skin atrophy or purpura. Monitor closely.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Triamcinolone 0.5% ointment is a high-potency topical corticosteroid. Use with caution on sensitive areas (face, groin, axillae) and in children.
- Ointment formulations are generally more potent and occlusive than creams, making them suitable for dry, scaly lesions.
- Educate patients on proper application technique: apply a thin film, do not rub excessively, and avoid occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed.
- Prolonged use, especially on large surface areas or under occlusion, increases the risk of systemic absorption and local adverse effects like skin atrophy, striae, and telangiectasias.
- If no improvement is seen after 2-4 weeks, re-evaluate the diagnosis and treatment plan.
Alternative Therapies
- Other topical corticosteroids (e.g., clobetasol, betamethasone, fluocinonide, hydrocortisone)
- 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
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$10 - $30 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'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 emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.