Triamcinolone

Systemic / Topical Corticosteroid

Generic Name

Triamcinolone

Drug Class

Glucocorticoid; Corticosteroid

Indications

Allergic disorders
Bronchial asthma (systemic/inhaled forms)
Autoimmune and inflammatory disorders
Dermatological conditions (eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis)
Intra-articular use in arthritis and bursitis

Dosage

Oral (Adults): 4–48 mg/day in divided doses
Children: 0.11–1.6 mg/kg/day (condition-dependent)
Topical: Apply thin layer 1–3 times daily
IM / Intra-articular: As per indication and joint size

Note: Taper gradually after prolonged systemic use.

Routes of Administration

Oral
Topical
Intramuscular
Intra-articular
Intralesional

Mechanism of Action

Triamcinolone suppresses inflammation and immune responses by inhibiting phospholipase A2, reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis, and decreasing leukocyte migration and capillary permeability.

Common Adverse Effects

Weight gain, increased appetite
Gastric irritation
Mood changes, insomnia
Skin thinning (topical use)

Serious Adverse Effects

Adrenal suppression
Increased susceptibility to infections
Hypertension
Osteoporosis
Growth suppression in children (long-term use)

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Hypersensitivity to triamcinolone
Untreated local infections (for topical/intra-articular use)

Precautions

Diabetes mellitus
Hypertension
Peptic ulcer disease
Tuberculosis
Long-term therapy requires monitoring and tapering

Drug Interactions

NSAIDs – increased GI bleeding risk
Antidiabetic drugs – reduced glycemic control
Rifampicin, phenytoin – reduced steroid levels
Live vaccines – reduced immune response

Pregnancy & Lactation

Use with caution. Systemic use only if benefit outweighs risk. Small amounts may appear in breast milk.

Patient Counseling

Use the lowest effective dose
Do not stop systemic therapy abruptly
Avoid prolonged topical use on face
Report signs of infection promptly