TRIAMCINOLONE (trye am SIN oh lone) reduces swelling, redness, itching, and rashes caused by skin conditions, such as eczema. It works by decreasing inflammation of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called topical steroids.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Large areas of burned or damaged skin
Skin infection
Thinning or wrinkling of the skin
An unusual or allergic reaction to triamcinolone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse it out with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed or for a longer time period than prescribed by your care team. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Apply a thin film to the affected area and rub gently. Do not bandage or wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your care team.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles
Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
Unexpected hair growth at site where applied
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Call your care team if you are around anyone with measles, chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.
Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better within one week. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin.
Do not use an airtight bandage to cover the affected area unless your care team tells you to. If you are to cover the area, follow the instructions carefully. Covering the area where the medication is applied can increase the amount that passes through the skin and increases the risk of side effects.
If applying this medication to the diaper area of a child, do not cover with tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants. This may increase the amount of medication that passes through the skin and increase the risk of serious side effects.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date. This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
