Uses
This medication is used for the temporary relief of symptoms from mouth sores due to injury. This drug comes in a dental paste that allows it to stick to the inside of the mouth/cheeks/gums. It works by reducing the swelling, itching, and pain that can occur with mouth sores. This medication is known as a medium-strength corticosteroid.
How To Use
Do not apply this medication in the eyes or on the skin. It is to be used only inside the mouth.
Dab or press (do not rub) a small amount of paste onto the area to be treated until the paste sticks and a smooth, slippery film develops. A cotton swab may be used to apply the paste. Do not attempt to spread or rub the paste in. This will only cause it to become crumbly, grainy, or gritty.
Apply to the affected area as directed by your doctor or dentist, usually 2 to 3 times daily after meals or at bedtime.
The treated area should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped unless your doctor or dentist directs you to do so.
Mouth infections may worsen while you are using this medication. Tell your doctor or dentist if your condition lasts or gets worse after 7 to 14 days of treatment.
Side Effects
Burning, itching, irritation, dryness, or redness of the treated area may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor, dentist, or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor or dentist has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:
Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed from the mouth into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children, and in people who use this medication for a long time. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur:
- unusual/extreme tiredness
- weight loss
- headache
- swelling ankles/feet
- increased thirst/urination
- vision problems
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using triamcinolone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other steroids (such as hydrocortisone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor, dentist, or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- herpes-type infection
- other infections/sores of the mouth or throat
Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.
Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this form of triamcinolone passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
Overdose with this medication is unlikely even if swallowed. However, if someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another occurrence. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.
If you are directed to use this medication for a long time, lab and/or medical tests (such as adrenal gland function tests, morning cortisol blood test) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
If you have questions about missing a dose or you don't have more medication, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Storage
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
