What is Kenalog: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Kenalog overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • DermacinRx Silazone PharmaPak, Kenalog, Trianex, Triderm, Triderm, Ellzia Pak, Kenalog, NuTriaRx, Trianex, Triderm, Tri-Sila, Whytederm TDPak, Whytederm Trilasil Pak, Whytederm Trilasil Pak, Active Injection Kit KL-3, Active Injection Kit KM, Aristospan, Arze-Ject-A, BT Injection Kit, Bupivilog Kit, DermacinRx Cinlone-I CPI, Interarticular Joint Kit, JTT Physicians Kit, Kenalog-10, Kenalog-40, Lidolog Kit, LT Injection Kit, MLK F1 Kit, MLK F2 Kit, Kenalog-40, Triesence, Pro-C-Dure 6 Kit, LT Injection Kit, MLK F3 Kit, Kenalog-80, Kenalog-10, Triamcinolone Acetonide Novaplus, MLK F2 Kit, Triesence, Pro-C-Dure 5 Kit, Lidolog Kit, Kenalog-40, PremierPro Rx Triamcinolone Acetonide, MLK F1 Kit

Generic Names:

  • Triamcinolone Acetonide

Uses:

  • Treats diseases and conditions related to inflammation (swelling). Also relieves knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and reduces swelling in the joints. This medicine is a corticosteroid., Treats many diseases and conditions, especially problems related to inflammation. May reduce inflammation in joints. This medicine is a corticosteroid., Treats skin itching, swelling, and other discomfort. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Corticosteroid, Intermediate, Endocrine-Metabolic Agent, Immune Suppressant, Immune Suppressant, Endocrine-Metabolic Agent

Forms:

  • Injectable, Injectable, Cream, Lotion, Ointment, Spray

How it’s taken:

  • On the skin, By injection, By injection

What form(s) does Kenalog come in

  • Injectable

  • Injectable

  • Cream

  • Lotion

  • Ointment

  • Spray

What are common Kenalog doses?

  • Vial 5ML of 10MG/ML

  • Vial 1ML of 40MG/ML

  • Vial 5ML of 40MG/ML

  • Vial 10ML of 40MG/ML

  • Can 63GM of 0.147MG/GM

  • Can 100GM of 0.147MG/GM

Common Kenalog prescriptions

  • Kenalog
    100gm of 0.147mg/gm can

  • Kenalog
    63gm of 0.147mg/gm can

  • Kenalog
    10ml of 40mg/ml vial

  • Kenalog
    1ml of 40mg/ml vial

  • Kenalog
    5ml of 10mg/ml vial

  • Kenalog
    5ml of 40mg/ml vial

How to take Kenalog

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Do not use this medicine on the face, neck, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • If you or your child are using the spray form on or near the face, protect your nose to avoid breathing it in and make sure that your eyes are covered.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • If the medicine is applied to the diaper area of an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants unless directed to do so by your doctor.

  • The spray form is flammable until it dries on the skin. Do not use it near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the aerosol can.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.

  • If the medicine is applied to the diaper area of an infant, do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants unless directed to do so by your doctor.

  • Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

  • Do not use this medicine on the face, neck, groin, or underarms unless directed to do so by your doctor.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • If you or your child are using the spray form on or near the face, protect your nose to avoid breathing it in and make sure that your eyes are covered.

  • Topical application routeApply a thin layer of the medicine to the affected area. Rub it in gently.

  • Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

  • The spray form is flammable until it dries on the skin. Do not use it near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the aerosol can.

  • Oral routeCarefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles, a joint, or a spot on your skin called a lesion.

  • Oral routeCarefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles, a joint, or a spot on your skin called a lesion.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles, a joint, or a spot on your skin called a lesion.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Missed dose: Injection routeCall your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

  • Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet while you are receiving this medicine.

  • Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet while you are receiving this medicine.

  • Missed dose: Injection routeCall your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles, a joint, or a spot on your skin called a lesion.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

What to do if you miss a dose of Kenalog

  • You must use this medicine on a fixed schedule. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you miss a dose.

  • Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Kenalog contraindications

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to triamcinolone.

  • You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to triamcinolone. You should not receive this medicine if you have fungal infections or a condition called idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. This medicine should not be given to premature babies.

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to triamcinolone, or if you have a fungal infection or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Kenalog warnings

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, glaucoma, increased pressure in the head, skin infection or problems, or an adrenal problem called Cushing's syndrome.

  • Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and patients who use large amounts for a long time. Talk to your doctor right away if you or your child have more than one of these symptoms while you are using this medicine: blurred vision; dizziness or fainting; a fast, uneven, or pounding heartbeat; increased thirst or urination; irritability; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

  • Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you or your child have a skin rash, burning, stinging, swelling, or irritation on the skin.

  • You should not use this medicine for your child without a doctor's approval.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This medicine contains benzyl alcohol, which can be harmful to infants and unborn babies.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems: Brain, spine, and nerve problems, when given using other routes (including an epidural or through a needle into the spine)Joint infection and damageIncreased risk of infectionsAdrenal gland problemsHigh blood pressureIncreased eye pressureStomach and bowel perforation (tear or hole)Changes in bone density, which may lead to osteoporosisChanges in mood or behavior

  • Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, heart failure, heart rhythm problems, a recent heart attack, high blood pressure, eye or vision problems (including cataracts, glaucoma), myasthenia gravis, joint problems, any type of infection (including tuberculosis, herpes infection in the eye, parasite or worm infection), thyroid problems, stomach or bowel problems (including diverticulitis, ulcers), osteoporosis, or a history of mental problems. Tell your doctor if you have been exposed to chicken pox or measles.

  • Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.

  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

  • Stopping of heart, no blood pressure or pulse, or unconsciousness.

  • Slowed growth in children.

  • Shortness of breath, cold sweat, or bluish-colored skin.

  • Severe headache or pain behind your eyes.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • This medicine contains benzyl alcohol that may cause problems (such as low blood pressure and metabolic acidosis) when given too much especially to newborn babies.

  • Let your doctor know if you have any events causing unusual stress or anxiety in your life. Your dose of this medicine may need to be changed.

  • It may be easier for you to get an infection while you are receiving triamcinolone. Avoid crowded places or being near people who are sick. If you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and for patients who use large amounts for a long time. Talk to your doctor if you have more than one of these symptoms while you are using this medicine: blurred vision; dizziness or fainting; a fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat; increased thirst or urination; irritability; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

  • This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. You will be observed for signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis after you receive this medicine. Tell your doctor right away about any unusual effects you may have.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, or a recent heart attack. Tell your doctor if you have certain infections (such as amoebiasis or candidiasis), viral infections, cerebral malaria, or threadworm infestation.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, tuberculosis, stomach or bowel problems, cataracts, glaucoma, or herpes simplex infection in your eyes. Tell your doctor if you have a mental condition, bone problems (such as osteoporosis), myasthenia gravis, or a thyroid disorder.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have recently spent time in a tropical climate.

Kenalog interactions

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • This medicine contains benzyl alcohol that may cause problems (such as low blood pressure and metabolic acidosis) when given too much especially to newborn babies.

  • It may be easier for you to get an infection while you are receiving triamcinolone. Avoid crowded places or being near people who are sick. If you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • Let your doctor know if you have any events causing unusual stress or anxiety in your life. Your dose of this medicine may need to be changed.

  • Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and for patients who use large amounts for a long time. Talk to your doctor if you have more than one of these symptoms while you are using this medicine: blurred vision; dizziness or fainting; a fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat; increased thirst or urination; irritability; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

  • This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicine to treat an infection (such as amphotericin B, clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin, Biaxin®, Ery-tab®, or Zithromax®), a diuretic or "water pill" (such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ], or Lasix®), or diabetes medicine (such as insulin, glyburide, metformin, Actos®, Avandia®, Glucotrol®,or Glucovance®).

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using aminoglutethimide (Cytadren®), cholestyramine (Questran®), cyclosporine (Gengraf®, Neoral®, Sandimmune®), digoxin (Lanoxin®), isoniazid (Nydrazid®), ketoconazole (Nizoral®), pancuronium (Pavulon®), phenobarbital (Luminal®), phenytoin (Dilantin®), or rifampin (Rifadin®). Tell your doctor if you are using birth control pills, pain or arthritis medicine called NSAIDs (such as aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, Aleve®, Celebrex®, Ecotrin®, Motrin®, or Voltaren®), or a blood thinner (such as warfarin, Coumadin®).

  • There are many other drugs that can interact with triamcinolone. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.

  • This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

  • Some medicines can affect how triamcinolone works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:Aminoglutethimide, amphotericin B, carbamazepine, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, digitalis, isoniazid, ketoconazole, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampinBirth control pills (including estrogen)Blood thinner medicine (including warfarin)Diabetes medicineDiuretic (water pill)Medicine to treat infection (including clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin)NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)

  • Topical application routeDo not put cosmetics or skin care products on the treated skin.

  • Do not use this medication with other corticosteroid (eg, hydrocortisone) containing products without checking with your doctor first.

  • Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you or your child have a skin rash, burning, stinging, swelling, or irritation on the skin.

  • You should not use this medicine for your child without a doctor's approval.

  • Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Kenalog side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Severe headache or pain behind your eyes.

  • Stopping of heart, no blood pressure or pulse, or unconsciousness.

  • Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea, or vomiting.

  • Chest pain or discomfort.

  • Change in how much or how often you urinate.

  • Bloody or black, tarry stools.

  • Blurred vision or changes in vision.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Fast, slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat.

  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.

  • Muscle weakness or cramps, or sudden joint pain.

  • Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body.

  • Shortness of breath, cold sweat, or bluish-colored skin.

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

  • Slowed growth in children.

  • Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.

  • Seizures.

  • Restlessness, confusion, agitation, unusual mood or behavior

  • Sudden and severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting

  • Muscle or joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

  • Dizziness, headache, slow or fast heartbeat

  • Sudden or severe headache, problems with vision, speech, or walking

  • Fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Inability to move your legs or arms, paralysis of the upper or lower half of the body

  • Thinning of the skin or bruising.

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Itching, flaking, or dryness of the treated skin area.

  • Severe burning, pain, redness, swelling, or irritation of the treated skin areas.

  • Symptoms of skin infection such as redness, swelling, drainage, or pus.

  • Mild burning, dryness, irritation, redness, or itching.

  • Mild, temporary stinging.

  • Raised spots on the skin.

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Changes in the color of the treated skin.

  • Mild burning, dryness, irritation, redness, or itching.

  • Thinning of the skin or bruising.

  • Raised spots on the skin.

  • Acne or tiny pimples on the skin.

  • Itching and redness around your lips.

  • Excessive hair growth.

  • Mild, temporary stinging.

  • Pain, itching, burning, or swelling where the shot is given

  • Feeling sad or depressed.

  • Mood swings, unusual thoughts or behavior.

  • Thinning skin, changes in skin color, and increased hair growth.

  • Restlessness, anxiety, or increased appetite.

  • Blemishes on the skin or pimples.

  • Gaining weight around your neck, upper back, breast, face, or waist.

  • Changes in your menstrual periods.

  • Diarrhea.

  • Mild skin rash.

  • Swelling of abdominal or stomach area, full or bloated feeling, or pressure in the stomach.