What is triamcinolone acetonide topical?
Triamcinolone acetonide topical (brand names Genesis®, Vetalog®, others) is a corticosteroid used to treat itching, skin irritation, and rashes in dogs. It may be specially compounded and/or combined into a formulation with other medications.
It is used off label (extra label) to treat itching and skin irritation in cats, hedgehogs, and other small mammals. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada.
In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet triamcinolone topical?
Triamcinolone topical comes in topical cream and spray forms.
- Creams and sprays are applied topically, directly to the skin.
- Clean the affected area as directed by your veterinarian before applying the medication.
- Wear gloves while applying and wash your hands after application. Avoid contact with eyes.
- Do not allow pets to groom or lick the application site for at least 30 minutes after applying this medication.
- Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, but its effects may not be noticeable for a few days.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects from triamcinolone topical?
Triamcinolone topical may cause the following side effects:
- mild irritation at site of application
- watery eyes, sneezing
- increased thirst, urination, and/or hunger
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
- gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding (black tarry stools, bloody vomit, low energy, decreased appetite)
- weight gain
- pot-bellied appearance
- lethargy
- skin or coat changes
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
This moderate-acting medication should stop working within a few days, though effects may be prolonged in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
This medication should NOT BE USED in animals:
- allergic to any of the components
- with tuberculosis of the skin
This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in animals who:
- have a small body size
- have diabetes mellitus
- have Cushing’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism)
- are less than 1 year old
- are pregnant or nursing
- are taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with triamcinolone topical, including:
- other steroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone)
- NSAIDs (e.g., carprofen, meloxicam)
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit after the course of medication is complete to ensure the condition has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the type of condition present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
- At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store triamcinolone topical?
- Store the medication in its original container, protected from light, at room temperature of 15°C-30°C (59°F-86°F).
- Keep the cap tightly closed.
- If your veterinarian or pharmacist has made a special (compounded) formulation for your pet, follow the storage recommendations and expiration date for the product.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
