Overview
Triamcinolone is classified as a steroid drug that mimics the action of hormones naturally present in the body. This mainly helps relieve itching, redness, dryness, and scaly skin for several different skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.
Triamcinolone cream for eczema decreases skin inflammation and effectively manages the rashes, itching, swelling and redness associated with eczema. It’s available in various prescription strengths.
Although there is no cure for eczema, depending on the type and severity of the eczema, prescription medication such as Triamcinolone can help manage a flare-up.
This article discusses the benefits of triamcinolone acetonide cream in treating eczema. It also discusses the possible side effects of eczema ointment triamcinolone and its instructions.
What skin conditions does Triamcinolone cream treat?
Triamcinolone cream treats various inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions. Triamcinolone is classified as a synthetic corticosteroid drug, which was approved by the FDA in 1957. It is prescribed for the following conditions:
- allergic rhinitis
- eczema
- contact dermatitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- osteoarthritis
- systemic lupus erythematosus
- gout
- multiple sclerosis
The chemical structure of triamcinolone acetonide varies from Triamcinolone. It is available with different brand names, and several options for dosages exist. Some brand names include:
- Trianex
- Volon A
- Triderm
- Kenalog
- Nasacort
Different formulations of Triamcinolone include:
- ointment
- cream
- lotion
- tablet
- nasal spray
- injection
- dental paste
Triamcinolone ointment for eczema is commonly prescribed to calm down the irritated skin.
What does Triamcinolone cream do to the skin?
Triamcinolone is a type of corticosteroid that reduces the inflammatory response by stopping the formation of chemicals responsible for inflammation. Triamcinolone cream uses include reducing itching, redness and swelling of the skin.
Moreover, it slows down the production of new skin cells, which in turn helps lower the amount of patches/scales formed in the condition called psoriasis. Hence, triamcinolone acetonide cream used for psoriasis also proves to be effective.
How is Triamcinolone used to treat eczema?
Triamcinolone acetonide is a prescription medication for various skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Triamcinolone acetonide for eczema helps reduce the amount of inflammatory chemicals that lead to redness, itching, and skin swelling. A prescription is required to purchase triamcinolone acetonide cream for eczema. Triamcinolone for eczema is considered six to seven times more potent than prednisolone, which is another option to treat eczema.
How effective is Triamcinolone?
Triamcinolone acetonide has proved to be six to seven times more potent than prednisolone. Additionally, eczema cream triamcinolone acetonide shows visible effects after 3-7 days of use.
According to a study, 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream used to treat facial dermatitis drastically improved skin hydration and associated symptoms.
How many days should you use Triamcinolone cream?
Generally, triamcinolone cream for eczema is prescribed for 1-2 weeks. Application of this cream should be limited to the skin, and sensitive areas, including the face, underarms, or groin, should be spared unless specified by the doctors. Triamcinolone acetonide on the face is usually not applied as it can lead to skin tinning and other side effects.
Following are the instructions on how to best apply the cream:
- Wash and dry your hands before application.
- Clean the affected area before application.
- Apply a thin film to the affected area and gently absorb it into the skin.
- Apply it to the affected region twice daily.
- Do not cover the affected area with a wrap or bandage.
- Use the medication as directed, and do not discontinue abruptly without the doctor’s instructions.
Storing the Triamcinolone acetonide cream in a cool and dry place is essential. Dispose of the medicine once it has expired.
Which is better, Hydrocortisone cream or Triamcinolone?
Both hydrocortisone and triamcinolone are topical steroids that relieve skin inflammation. However, they differ in potency. Triamcinolone is considered a more potent steroid than hydrocortisone. Triamcinolone is classified as a medium to high-potency steroid, whereas hydrocortisone comes under a low to medium-potency steroid. Some lower strengths of hydrocortisone do not require a prescription, but Triamcinolone is a prescription only medicine.
Low-potency steroids are considered safer for long-term use and can be applied on the face or other body areas with thinner skin. Stronger steroids are for severe conditions, and the use is restricted to areas of the body where the skin is thicker.
What happens if you use too much Triamcinolone acetonide cream?
With benefits come some side effects as well. After applying the medication, Triamcinolone may cause side effects such as burning, itching, dryness, or skin irritation. Some other side effects include:
- acne
- rashes
- changes in skin color
- unwanted hair growth
- small bumps or rash around the mouth
Mostly, these side effects subside on their own, but medical attention is required if they persist or worsen.
Long-term use of steroids or excessive glucocorticoids in the bloodstream can result in the following conditions:
- Cushing syndrome
- weight gain
- acne
- skin thinning
- hypertension
- hyperglycemia
- stretch marks
- osteoporosis
- Immunosuppression
- swelling of ankles and feet
- fatigue
- absence of menstruation
- changes in urination
- vision problems
- steroid psychosis
Consult your doctor
Corticosteroids, including Triamcinolone, treat many different conditions, such as eczema. The medication is available in several formulations and strengths, and in order to determine the best form and dosage for you, connect with our doctor at Your Doctors Online.
FAQs about Triamcinolone cream for eczema
Avoid applying the cream on the face, groin or underarms unless specifically instructed. Additionally, you shouldn’t apply Triamcinolone over large areas of your skin as it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and lead to side effects, including skin thinning, rash, itching, stretch marks or spider veins.
The cream should not be applied on broken skin or an area that is burnt or in case of an open wound. Fungal, viral, or bacterial infections are not treated using this.
Applying triamcinolone acetonide cream on the face may result in skin thinning or bruising. The area is sensitive, and the thin skin increases the possibility of experiencing side effects.
Triamcinolone may interact with supplements or certain medications. Therefore, informing your doctor about your current medication list is always good.
