Do you also get mouth ulcers often? Or do you suffer from painful sores inside your mouth that make it difficult to eat or drink? At times like these, a doctor may have prescribed you a paste called Triamcinolone. You may have seen it under the brand names Kenalog in Orabase or Oralone. So, although many people use it, they don't know exactly how to use it, what it does, and what things to be careful about. Today, let's talk about this medicine in a simple way, like talking to a friend.
What is Triamcinolone?
Simply put, Triamcinolone is a medication used to reduce the discomfort and pain caused by mouth sores . It belongs to a class of medications called topical steroids . Don't be scared by the word " steroid ." This is not like the steroids we take orally. It is specifically designed to be applied only to the area where the mouth sores are.
This paste reduces inflammation , which means swelling, redness, and pain, at the site of the wound. This will help the wound heal faster.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this paste, he or she will need to know your complete medical history. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
- An existing infection: If you have a fungal, bacterial , or viral infection anywhere in your body, especially in your mouth (for example, a yeast infection that causes white patches in your mouth).
- Stomach or intestinal diseases: If you have a stomach problem like gastritis or another intestinal disease.
- Allergies : Tell your doctor if you are allergic to triamcinolone or any other steroid (corticosteroid). Also tell your doctor if you are allergic to other medicines, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding : If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is very important to inform your doctor.
How do you use this paste properly?
To get the most out of a medicine, you need to use it correctly. This is where many people make mistakes.
Most importantly: Do not rub this paste into the wound. If you do, it will turn into a powdery, lumpy consistency. It will not work properly.
Here's how it works:
1. Best time: Doctors usually recommend using this after meals and before going to bed at night . That way, the medicine stays on the wound for a long time.
2. Cleanliness: Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the medicine.
3. Size: Take a very small amount. About the size of half a pea.
4. How to apply: Take a small amount of the paste on the tip of a clean cotton bud and apply it lightly over the wound. The goal is to create a smooth film that completely covers the wound. Do not rub or spread it.
5. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage: Do not use more than the prescribed amount.
What if it is used for small children?
Special care is needed when using this medicine in young children. Therefore, do not use this medicine in children without consulting your doctor . If your doctor prescribes it, use it only as directed and in the amount prescribed.
What to do if you overdose?
If you accidentally use too much of this medicine, or if a small child swallows it, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you forget to take your medicine at the right time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, within an hour or two), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the right time. Never take a double dose.
Possible side effects when using the medicine
Like any medicine, this one can cause some minor side effects in some people. But most of the time, these are not serious. Let's take a look at them in the table below.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | If you experience symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, talk to your doctor about stopping the medication immediately. |
| Worsening of the wound | If pain or inflammation increases where the medicine is applied, or if new sores develop, tell your doctor. |
| Slight burning sensation where the medicine was applied | When you first apply the medicine, you may feel a slight burning sensation. This usually goes away after a while. But if it persists or is bothersome, tell your doctor. |
A few other important points
- If symptoms do not improve: If your wound does not improve after 5-7 days of using the medicine, or if it gets worse, be sure to see your doctor again. You may have another infection.
- Do not share the medicine: This medicine is for you only. Do not let anyone else use it, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
- How to store the medicine: Keep out of reach of children, at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Protect from excessive heat and light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Throw away any expired medicine tube.
Take-Home Message
- Triamcinolone is a steroid paste that is applied to the wound to reduce pain and swelling in mouth ulcers.
- Before using this, you should tell your doctor about any other illnesses and allergies you have.
- Do not rub the paste over the wound, but gently apply it so that it forms a thin film.
- If the wound doesn't get better in a few days, or if it gets worse, definitely see the doctor again.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
- If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor for details.
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