Healthy Living

What Does Triamcinolone Treat?

What Does Triamcinolone Treat

Triamcinolone topical is used for the treatment of various skin conditions and their symptoms, such as redness, inflammation, itching, and other discomforts. This topical medication is also a corticosteroid and only available through prescription. Other available forms of triamcinolone are:

  • Lotion
  • Ointment
  • Cream
  • Spray
  • Tablets
  • Injections
Are There any Risk Factors for Bronchitis?

Are There any Risk Factors for Bronchitis?

Have a question aboutTriamcinolone (Topical)?Ask a doctor now

Before Use

Before using this medicine, the following risk factors should be considered:

  • Allergies - Inform your healthcare provider if you have any drug allergy or unusual reaction to this medication. Other types of allergies include allergy to preservatives, foods, animals, or dyes. Carefully read the label and ingredients when using non-prescription products. 
  • Pediatric use - Triamcinolone topical has a certain toxicity level, so it should always be used with caution when treating the pediatric population. Serious side effects can be experienced by children if large amounts of triamcinolone are absorbed through the skin. Make sure to carefully follow your healthcare provider's instruction when using this medication. 

Medical Problems

When triamcinolone is used in people with medical problems, the effectiveness of the medicine may be affected. Inform your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions:

  • Diabetes
  • Adrenal gland disorders (Cushing syndrome)
  • Intracranial hypertension (pressure buildup in the brain)
  • Any skin infection near or at the site of application (broken skin, large sores, or skin injury)

Versions of the Cream

  • Dental - This version is used for the treatment of temporary mouth sores. 
  • Topical - Used for the treatment of skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. The topical version can also reduce skin itching, rash, and inflammation. 

Usage of the Cream

It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions. Do not use it excessively and for a longer period of time to avoid experiencing skin irritation and unwanted side effects. Triamcinolone cream should only be used on the skin. Do not apply the cream to your eyes, broken skin, burns, or scrapes. If the cream is accidentally applied to any of these areas, rinse it off immediately with water.  

To use Triamcinolone cream:

  • Make sure to wash your hands using water and soap before and after application. 
  • A think layer of the cream should be applied to the affected skin area. 
  • Avoid using a bandage to the affected skin area, unless your healthcare provider specifically says otherwise. 
  • When it comes to applying this medicine to an infant's diaper area, ensure that the diapers are not tight-fitting. 
  • If an occlusive dressing (airtight covering) is ordered by the doctor, make sure that you know how to apply it. Use them only as directed by your doctor. 

What does triamcinolone treat?

Side Effects

During treatment with this medication, certain side effects may be experienced by patients. Common side effects may include burning, dryness, and itching. Acne may also develop or the hair follicle may get inflamed giving rise to folliculitis.

The skin also becomes tender and sensitive to touch. The treated skin area may also appear discolored compared to untreated skin areas. This condition is called hypopigmentation. If these skin reactions become severe or persistent after using the medication, inform your healthcare provider right away. 

When this medication is used for a long period of time, several side effects can develop. Certain side effects occur due to the chemical composition of cream, particularly if it is applied to the face, underarms, and groin. For this reason, only use this cream after consulting a dermatologist. Other associated side effects include severe itching, dry skin, and irritation. 

Other reported side effects include:

  • Glaucoma
  • Coughing up blood
  • Bloody stool
  • Fluid retention
  • Hyperglycemia
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Skin rash
  • Hives
  • Skin itching
  • Swelling
  • Other allergic reactions

There have been reports that after the application of triamcinolone, certain skin conditions have worsened. Immediately inform your doctor if you notice unusual irritation and swelling after triamcinolone application. The severe side effects of this medication include the following:

  • Hair growth on the body
  • Acne
  • Stretch marks
  • Discoloration of the skin

Adrenal Suppression

This condition may result due to prolonged or excessive use of topical medication. In certain patients, adrenal suppression can give rise to Cushing syndrome. In children, the risk of adrenal suppression is the highest when they use triamcinolone cream.

Adrenal suppression may also cause the following:

  • Changes in emotions or mood
  • Changes in height or weight
  • Delayed growth
  • High blood pressure
  • Facial puffiness
  • High blood sugar

A medical professional should be consulted as soon as possible when patients use corticosteroid creams and exhibit the above-mentioned side effects.

Allergic Reaction

Individuals should not use this cream if they are hypersensitive to triamcinolone or any of its ingredients. An allergic reaction may happen when they use the cream. The symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

  • Breathing problems
  • Changes in heart rate
  • Dizziness
  • Facial swelling
  • Weakness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Pale skin
  • Swelling and throat tightness

Precautions

Check with your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not improve within a few weeks of topical triamcinolone treatment. 

People who use this medication for a longer time than prescribed may increase their risk of developing adrenal gland issues. The risk is also greater in children with prolonged use. Consult your healthcare provider if you or your child experience any of the following symptoms while using triamcinolone:

Stop the application of triamcinolone and immediately check with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Skin rash
  • Skin irritation
  • Stinging
  • Swelling
  • Burning

Check with your healthcare provider first if there is a need for you to use other products that contain other corticosteroids while on this medication. Moreover, avoid using cosmetics and other skin care products on the areas treated with triamcinolone. 

It is also important not to share this topical medication with other people. Only use this medication for your current skin condition. Do not use it for other skin problems, unless your healthcare provider specifically says otherwise. A different medication may be needed in other cases.