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Kenacort (triamcinolone acetonide, corticosteroid)

Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology


Updated Jul 20, 2021

    Kenacort is is the brand name of the drug triamcinolone acetonide. Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid or “steroid’ drug. It is only available with a prescription from a physician.

    kenacort

    Uses

    What is Kenacort used for?

    Kenacort is a corticosteroid that treats:

    • Aphthous stomatitis (canker sore, “singaw’)
    • Dermatoses
    • Stasis dermatitis
    • Psoriasis
    • Pain and inflammation
    • Arthritis
    • Gout

    How should I take Kenacort?

    Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

    For parenteral dosage forms, only a licensed healthcare professional should administer it.

    Topical dosage forms should be applied directly to the affected area. Avoid touching your eyes and mouth. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying it.

    How do I store Kenacort?

    Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

    There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

    You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

    Precautions & Warnings

    What should I know before using Kenacort?

    Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

    • Pregnant or breastfeeding.
    • Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
    • An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
    • Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

    Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

    This medication is pregnancy risk category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

    • A= No risk
    • B= No risk in some studies
    • C= There may be some risk
    • D= Positive evidence of risk
    • X= Contraindicated
    • N= Unknown

    Side Effects

    What side effects can occur from Kenacort?

    Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

    • Anxiety
    • Blurred vision
    • Decreased urination
    • Dizziness
    • Increased heart rate
    • Headache
    • Irritability
    • Depression
    • Mood changes
    • Nervousness
    • Numbness or tingling
    • Shortness of breath
    • Edema
    • Weight gain

    However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

    Interactions

    What drugs may interact with Kenacort?

    This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

    To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

    Drugs with known interactions:

    • Aldesleukin
    • Other corticosteroids
    • Anticholinesterase agents
    • Anticholinergics
    • Anticoagulants
    • Antidiabetic agents
    • Antihypertensive agents
    • Diuretics
    • Isoniazid
    • Ciclosporin
    • Digitalis
    • Ketoconazole
    • NSAIDs
    • Oral contraceptives
    • Vaccines
    • Antiarrhythmics

    If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

    Does food or alcohol interact with Kenacort?

    This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

    What health conditions may interact with Kenacort?

    This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

    • Infection
    • Osteoporosis
    • Cataracts
    • Liver disease
    • Congestive heart failure
    • Depression
    • Glaucoma
    • Heart disease
    • Hypertension
    • Kaposi’s sarcoma
    • Kidney disease
    • Mental illness
    • Myasthenia gravis (severe muscle weakness)
    • Stomach or bowel problems (e.g., diverticulitis, ulcers, ulcerative colitis)
    • Thyroid problems
    • Brain injury
    • Cerebral malaria

    Dosage

    The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

    What is the dose for an adult?

    Parenteral

    Administer the dose via deep intramuscular (IM) or intrathecal (IA) injection. The usual dose is 40 mg for IM injections. IA injections for arthritis or joint inflammation require 5 to 10 mg for smaller joints and 40 mg for larger joints. The maximum dose per day is 80 mg.

    This dose may be different depending on your condition.

    Topical

    For stomatitis, apply the product to the affected area with a clean finger or cotton swab 2 to 4 times per day. For dermatoses, apply the cream 1 to 2 times per day for 2 to 4 weeks.

    If you are using a cream, apply it to clean skin. Oral pastes should be applied within the mouth. In addition, avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after applying it.

    What is the dose for a child?

    Parenteral

    Administer the dose via deep intramuscular (IM) or intrathecal (IA) injection. For juvenile arthritis, administer 0.5 mg per kg of body weight for smaller joints, 5 to 10 mg per kg for medium-sized joints, and 1 mg per kg for larger joints.

    Topical

    Apply the product to the affected area with a clean finger or cotton swab.

    How is Kenacort available?

    Kenacort is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

    • Topical cream 0.1% w/w
    • Oral paste 0.1% w/w
    • Suspension for injection 10 mg/mL, 40 mg/mL

    What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

    In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

    What should I do if I miss a dose?

    If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Written by

    Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

    Pharmacology


    Updated Jul 20, 2021

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