Triamcinolone acetonide

How it works

As a glucocorticoid it binds intracellular receptors to modulate gene transcription, reducing inflammatory mediator production and immune cell activity.

Prescribing in practice

• Systemic or repeated administration can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, so courses should not be stopped abruptly and the lowest effective exposure should be used.
• Avoid or use cautiously where there is active untreated infection, as corticosteroids mask signs and impair the immune response.
• Prolonged exposure may cause hyperglycaemia, fluid retention, osteoporosis, and skin or soft-tissue atrophy at injection or application sites.

Monitoring

Monitor for glycaemic disturbance, signs of infection, blood pressure changes, and local or systemic steroid adverse effects according to dose and duration.

Counselling the patient

• Do not stop the medicine suddenly if you have been using it regularly.
• Tell your healthcare team about any infection or feeling unwell.
• Carry a steroid treatment card if you are on prolonged or repeated treatment.

Evidence & guidelines

Corticosteroid efficacy in inflammatory and allergic conditions is long established and reflected in the SPC and current prescribing references.