Triamcinolone acetonide is a generic topical corticosteroid cream used to treat a number of skin conditions. These typically include inflammation, dryness, and redness stemming from poison ivy, allergies, etc. Some very mild forms of the drug are available over the counter, but patients typically receive the drug from a dermatologist. Using triamcinolone acetonide without the supervision of a doctor is not recommended due to the potential of side effects.
Indication
As triamcinolone acetonide is a steroid, you will need to follow your doctor's instructions carefully to avoid overdosing. The cream comes in 15, 30, and 80 mg tubes. The medication is applied topically so there is no need to take it with food or water. Do not apply triamcinolone acetonide to any area of your body without specific instructions from your doctor. Certain skin conditions will react poorly to the steroid ingredients and can make your condition worsen
Usage and Dosage
The most common uses for triamcinolone acetonide cream are atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, poison ivy, contact dermatitis, and seborrhea. Any skin condition that is responsive to corticosteroids will benefit from triamcinolone acetonide cream. Doses will be prescribed for short or long term use depending on the nature of the condition. Use will typically be restricted to when your skin is swelling or showing a reaction. The cream may also be used to suppress your immune system when it is overreacting.
Your use of triamcinolone acetonide cream will vary greatly depending on your condition. Your doctor will give you specific instructions regarding where and how it should be applied. Typically, the cream will be applied to the infected area 2-4 times a day. Rub the cream in gently until it disappears. In some cases, the area should be covered with a light cotton cloth to seal in moisture. Only do this if your doctor has specifically recommended a covering as part of your treatment. Make sure the cloth is not too tight and is changed regularly to avoid infection. Doctors may even prescribe triamcinolone acetonide for penile or labial adhesions and vitiligo, in which case be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations for use as it may differ from the product's instructions.
Side Effects
Side effects for triamcinolone acetoide cream are typically increased when the area is not dressed properly. Using the cream on a very large area of the body can also lead to overdosing, which increases the intensity of side effects. The most common side effects include a burning, itching irritation, dryness, skin infection, malaria, allergic reaction, and hypertrichosis. Many of these conditions are mild and will decrease as your body becomes used to the medication. If you experience any severe reactions to the medication that impact your ability to function, immediately wash off the cream and contact your doctor.
If the area being treated with triamcinolone acetoide develops a secondary infection your doctor may prescribe another prescription to treat it. Do not try to treat any bacterial infection you develop without your doctor's supervision. Some medications used for bacterial infections may contain steroid ingredients that are not safe to use while you are also using triamcinolone acetoide. If you develop an infection, confirm that you can continue your prescription while you treat it.
Precautions
Children may use triamcinolone acetonide cream, but they are more likely to develop side effects than adults. Children tend to absorb more of the medication through their skin, making them more prone to overdosing. If you are using triamcinolone acetonide on an infant near the diaper area, use loose fitting diapers that are breathable to lower the rate of absorption.
Pregnant women and women that are breastfeeding should not use triamcinolone acetonide. The steroid properties can be transferred to your child, which increases the risk of complications such as poor fetal growth. Mothers should avoid skin-to-skin contact with their children in the areas that are being treated with the cream. This is particularly important if you have applied triamcinolone acetonide on or around the nipple while breastfeeding. Wash the cream off completely before you attempt to feed your baby.
You should not use triamcinolone acetonide while you are taking other medications that include steroids. This could lead to a potential overdose. Those who are sensitive to systemic absorption should be careful when applying any dressings, as tight wrapping can increase the rate of absorption. Avoid placing the cream in large areas or using it for extended periods of time unless specified by your doctor. Those currently undergoing chemotherapy may also be warned to avoid triamcinolone acetonide, because their absorption rate will be altered by the treatment, increasing the risk of overdose.
Allergic reactions to many of the ingredients that are used in the preparation of corticosteroids are very common. These include the food dyes and preservatives included in its preparation. If you notice any additional swelling or itching when you apply the cream, stop using it. Wash off your current dose and contact your doctor.