Kenalog

This page contains drug information on Kenalog.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Kenalog
the possible side effects of Kenalog
what happens if you miss a dose of Kenalog
what happens if you overdose with Kenalog
the most important information about Kenalog
how to use Kenalog
other drugs that may affect Kenalog
what to avoid while using Kenalog
 
Generic Name: triamcinolone topical (trye am SIH no lone)
Brand Names: Aristocort Topical, Kenalog, Triacet
 
What is the most important information I should know about kenalog?
 •  Do not use plastic bandages, dressings, or diapers that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings can greatly increase the amount of drug the body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.
 •  Do not use kenalog to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be dangerous.
 •  Use kenalog cautiously, and only under the supervision of a doctor, to treat a child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of kenalog.

What is kenalog?
 •  Triamcinolone is a topical steroid. It reduces or inhibits the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.
 •  Triamcinolone is used to treat the inflammation caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis.
 •  kenalog may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using kenalog?
 •  Return to your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse. kenalog alone will not treat the condition if it is a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection.
 •  kenalog is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether kenalog will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. If it is necessary to use triamcinolone during pregnancy, the smallest amount possible should be applied, for the shortest time necessary to treat the condition, under the supervision of a doctor.
 •  It is not known whether triamcinolone passes into breast milk. Do not use kenalog without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
 •  Use kenalog cautiously, and only under the supervision of a doctor, to treat a child. Children are more sensitive to the effects of kenalog.

How should I use kenalog?
 •  Apply the cream or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
 •  Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using kenalog to treat a hand condition.
 •  Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin.
 •  Use caution on areas where the skin creases, such as armpits, knees, and elbows. These areas may absorb more medication. Also, avoid the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
 •  If you need to protect the area, it can be covered with a breathable cotton-gauze dressing. Avoid using plastic, occlusive dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the area. Plastic pants and diapers may be harmful if used over kenalog on a child.
 •  Do not use kenalog to treat any area of the body that it is not prescribed for. This could be dangerous.
 •  It is important to use kenalog regularly to get the most benefit.
 •  Store kenalog at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
 •  Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and apply the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?
 •  An overdose of kenalog is not expected to threaten life. If the cream or ointment is ingested, or if a large amount of cream is used over a large area and you are experiencing side effects, call an emergency room or a poison control left for advice.

What should I avoid while using kenalog?
 •  Do not use plastic bandages, dressings, or diapers that do not allow air to circulate to the area (occlusive dressings) unless your doctor directs you to do so. The use of occlusive dressings can greatly increase the amount of drug the body absorbs. If you do use an occlusive dressing, do not use it for more than 12 hours a day.
 •  Avoid using other topical medications, harsh or abrasive soaps, or cosmetics on the affected area without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of kenalog?
 •  No serious systemic side effects are expected unless a large amount of kenalog is used for a long period of time. If the drug is being absorbed by the body, you may experience blurred vision, halos around lights, an irregular heartbeat, insomnia, mood changes, weight gain, or fatigue. If you experience any unusual side effects, notify your doctor.
 •  Less serious side effects are more likely to occur. You may experience some redness, blistering, burning, itching, or peeling of the skin being treated. Continue to use kenalog and talk to your doctor.
 •  Other local side effects may also occur, especially with prolonged use of kenalog. These include thinning of the skin, prolonged redness, and stretch marks.
 •  Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect kenalog?
 •  Avoid using other topical medications, harsh or abrasive soaps, or cosmetics on the affected area without first talking to your doctor.
 •  Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with kenalog. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.