Triamcinolone Hexacetonide

What it is and how it works

Triamcinolone hexacetonide is a poorly soluble ester of the synthetic glucocorticoid triamcinolone, given as a microcrystalline suspension. After local injection it dissolves slowly, producing a prolonged local anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effect with relatively low systemic absorption.

Indications

Intra-articular treatment of synovitis in inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and of inflammatory flares in osteoarthritis; intralesional or periarticular use in selected conditions such as keloids, bursitis and tenosynovitis.

Dosage and administration (summary)

Given by intra-articular or intralesional injection; the dose depends on the size of the joint or lesion, and repeat injections into the same site should be spaced (usually not more often than every 3–4 weeks).

Contraindications

Local or systemic infection (including septic arthritis and infection near the injection site); intravenous, intramuscular, epidural or intrathecal administration; unstable or severely damaged joints; hypersensitivity to the product.

Warnings and precautions

Strict aseptic technique is required; septic arthritis must be excluded if pain and swelling increase after injection. Subcutaneous atrophy and depigmentation can occur, especially with intralesional or superficial injection. Repeated injections may cause joint damage, and systemic corticosteroid effects (e.g. hyperglycaemia, adrenal suppression) are possible.

Pregnancy

Use in pregnancy only if the benefit justifies the potential risk.

Storage and supply

Store below 25 °C, protected from light; do not freeze; shake well before use.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.