Brand Names: Kenalog in Orabase, Adcortyl in Orabase

Common Name: triamcinolone dental paste

What is this drug used for?

Triamcinolone belongs to the class of medications called corticosteroids. Triamcinolone dental paste is used to treat inflamed mouth sores and mouth sores caused by injury. It is applied directly to the affected areas of the mouth. It acts by decreasing inflammation and protecting the damaged area from further injury.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

Triamcinolone dental paste should not be used by anyone with fungal, viral, or bacterial infections of the mouth or throat or by anyone with an allergy to any of the ingredients of the medication.

What about possible side effects?

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risk and benefits of this medication with your doctor. Your health professional may be able to help you deal with some of the effects.

Check with your doctor or dentist as soon as possible if you experience signs of infection or irritation such as burning, itching, blistering, or peeling not present before use of this medication.

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Other medications used in the mouth that have irritating effects may affect how triamcinolone dental paste works or increase the risk of side effects.

If you are using any medications that fit this description, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. In many cases, interactions are intended or are managed by close monitoring. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription) and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or illegal drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

Other information:

Medical conditions: People with tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, or diabetes mellitus should not use this medication without the advice of their doctor.

Steroid effects: The small amount of steroid released when this medication is used as recommended makes overall effects within the body very unlikely. However, this may happen if the medication is used over a long period of time.

Pregnancy: The safe use of triamcinolone dental paste during pregnancy has not been established. If you are or may be pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

Special Instructions:

Press a small dab (about 6 mm) to the lesion until a thin film develops. A larger quantity may be required for coverage of some lesions. Do not rub it in. The best results occur when enough of the dental paste is used to just coat the lesion with a thin film. After the preparation has been applied, a smooth, slippery film develops. Apply at bedtime to permit contact with the lesion through the night. It may be necessary to apply the preparation two or three times a day, preferably after meals. If improvement does not occur within seven days, call your doctor.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important that this medication be applied exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, use it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.