Alfacort

• Inflammatory and allergic skin conditions: such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lichen planus.
• Oral and mucosal inflammatory lesions: including aphthous ulcers, oral lichen planus, and geographic tongue.
• Ophthalmic uses: inflammatory eye conditions like allergic conjunctivitis (ophthalmic formulations).
• Nasal conditions: allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps (intranasal formulations).
• Other: adjunct therapy for keloids and hypertrophic scars.

• Topical: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1 to 4 times daily, depending on severity. Duration usually up to 2 weeks unless otherwise directed.
• Intranasal: 2 sprays per nostril once or twice daily as prescribed.
• Ophthalmic: 1 to 2 drops every 4 to 6 hours, adjusted by the physician.
• Injection: Dose and frequency vary by condition, administered by healthcare professionals.
• Special populations: Use lowest effective dose in children and elderly. Exercise caution in hepatic or renal impairment.

Triamcinolone acetonide is a synthetic corticosteroid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene expression to suppress inflammatory and immune responses. It inhibits phospholipase A2, reducing synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, thereby decreasing inflammation, edema, and immune activity.

• Absorption: Variable; enhanced on inflamed or damaged skin.
• Distribution: Widely distributed systemically if absorbed.
• Metabolism: Mainly hepatic via CYP3A enzymes.
• Elimination: Metabolites excreted primarily in urine.
• Half-life: Approximately 3.5 hours systemically; longer pharmacodynamic effects.

• Pregnancy: FDA Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks. Limited human data.
• Lactation: Unknown excretion in breast milk; use caution and avoid application to breast during breastfeeding.

• Corticosteroid; medium to high potency glucocorticoid.

• Hypersensitivity to triamcinolone or excipients.
• Untreated systemic fungal infections.
• Skin infections without appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
• Use at vaccination sites without medical advice.

• Risk of skin atrophy and systemic effects with prolonged use or occlusion.
• Monitor for secondary infections.
• Use cautiously in diabetics, hypertensives, and immunosuppressed patients.
• Avoid abrupt cessation after long-term systemic use.

• Common: Local irritation, burning, dryness.
• Rare: Skin thinning, telangiectasia, hypopigmentation, secondary infections, adrenal suppression with systemic absorption.

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) may increase systemic corticosteroid levels.
• Avoid live vaccines during systemic corticosteroid therapy.
• Additive immunosuppression with other immunosuppressants.

• Emphasis on minimizing duration and potency to reduce adverse effects.
• Updated recommendations to avoid occlusive dressings unless indicated.
• Development of safer formulations to enhance patient compliance.

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Protect from heat, moisture, and light.
• Keep container tightly closed.
• Do not freeze.