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Triamcinolone Acetonide

Why is it prescribed?

It is used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (including hayfever) and perennial rhinitis (year-round inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose).

Products that have this ingredient include •Nasacort® AQ nasal spray •Apo-Triamcinolone AQ Nasal Spray •

See other drugs used in the treatment of •allergic rhinitis •allergies •hay fever •perennial rhinitis •rhinitis •runny nose •seasonal allergies •seasonal rhinitis •sleep apnea •

Along with its needed effects, triamcinolone may cause some unwanted or undesirable effects. Generally, triamcinolone is well tolerated and many people will not experience unwanted effects. The severity and duration of these effects are dependant on many factors including duration of therapy, dose, route of administration and individual response.

Possible unwanted effects include:

  • headache

Less common:

  • nasal irritation
  • dry nose
  • sneezing

Rare:

  • immediate or delayed allergic reaction, including rash, hives, and bronchospasm
  • swelling of the face

 


Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid that possesses anti-inflammatory activity. Used as a nasal spray, it reduces irritation and inflammation in the lining of the nose and nasal passages. It relieves the blocked up feeling in the nose, runny nose, itching and sneezing.


Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Regular usage is essential since maximum relief may not be obtained until after 2 to 3 days of treatment. Your doctor or pharmacist should instruct you on the correct use of this preparation. This medicine comes with a package insert that should be read and then kept as a reference.
Children using any of these preparations should do so under the direct supervision of an adult who is familiar with their proper use.
People who are using or who have used triamcinolone or any other corticosteroids should inform subsequent physicians, as this may vary the treatment plan.
Treatment should not be stopped abruptly but it should be tapered off gradually. In people previously on prolonged periods or high doses of oral steroids (e.g. prednisone), the replacement with nasal triamcinolone can be accompanied by symptoms of withdrawal (e.g. joint and/or muscular pain, depression).

Drug Interactions: Due to very low absorption at recommended doses, there have been no reports of significant drug interactions. However, it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you are taking.

Use is not recommended in the following situations:

  • allergy to triamcinolone or any component of the preparation.
  • people with tuberculosis
  • untreated fungal, bacterial and viral infections

Caution is recommended in the following situations:

  • people previously treated for prolonged periods with oral corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone) 
  • recent nasal septal ulcers, nasal surgery, or nasal trauma until healing has occurred - healing may be delayed

Use in pregnancy: Inhaled triamcinolone is considered safe to use during pregnancy.  Always consult your doctor before using.

Use while breastfeeding: Human data is lacking, but very little inhaled triamcinolone is expected to pass into breast milk.  Consult your doctor or pharmacist before you begin breastfeeding.