Binds intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to reduce inflammation and immune response; intermediate potency with minimal mineralocorticoid activity
At a glance
Class
Intermediate-acting glucocorticoid
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from light; do not freeze injection
Dosing
Inflammatory/allergic conditions
Max dose
8 mg/dose; 16 mg/day
Duration: Short course; taper over 2–3 weeks
Intra-articular / Intralesional
Route
Intra-articular, Intralesional
Frequency
Once; may repeat in 2–4 weeks
Duration: As needed; limit frequency
Inflammatory/allergic skin conditions / Eosinophilic granuloma
Duration: Short course; taper
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Adverse effects
Common
Polydipsia
Polyuria
Polyphagia
Panting (dogs)
Serious
Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism
GI ulceration
Immunosuppression
Diabetes mellitus
Blood glucoseUrine specific gravityLiver enzymesClinical signs of Cushing's
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Kenalog
Bristol-Myers Squibb
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Triamcinolone?
Triamcinolone is a intermediate-acting glucocorticoid used in pets. Binds intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to reduce inflammation and immune response; intermediate potency with minimal mineralocorticoid activity
›What is Triamcinolone used for in pets?
Triamcinolone is used in veterinary medicine for: Inflammatory/allergic conditions; Intra-articular / Intralesional; Inflammatory/allergic skin conditions / Eosinophilic granuloma.
›What is the Triamcinolone dose for dogs?
For dogs, Triamcinolone is typically dosed as follows — Inflammatory/allergic conditions: 0.1–0.3 mg/kg PO SID to BID; Intra-articular / Intralesional: 1–5 mg total Intra-articular/Intralesional Once; may repeat in 2–4 weeks. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Triamcinolone dose for cats?
For cats, Triamcinolone is typically dosed as follows — Inflammatory/allergic skin conditions / Eosinophilic granuloma: 0.1–0.3 mg/kg PO SID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Triamcinolone?
Common: Polydipsia, Polyuria, Polyphagia, Panting (dogs). Serious (call your vet immediately): Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism, GI ulceration, Immunosuppression, Diabetes mellitus.
›Does Triamcinolone need a prescription?
Yes. Triamcinolone is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Triamcinolone not be used?
Do not use Triamcinolone if: Systemic fungal infections; Active GI ulceration.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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