Azmacort (Triamcinolone Acetonide (inhalation aerosol)) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 25, 2012

Azmacort

Nasal Allergy Medications »

Introduction

Although they are the cornerstone of allergy treatment, avoidance measures are not always enough to manage all of the symptoms. When the symptoms of nasal allergies are mild or intermittent, antihistamines with or without decongestants can help. Very often, some relief can be found in taking over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and this is usually the first step an allergy sufferer will take. Self-medication, though, is frequently inadequate since OTC drugs cannot adequately treat the inflammation that develops in the nose. At this stage, anti-inflammatory medications are required, usually in the form of intra- nasal steroid sprays (sprayed into the nose).

The combination of an antihistamine (with or without a decongestant) and a topical nasal steroid spray will usually afford good relief with minimal side effects. The addition of ipratropium bromide nasal spray (Atrovent - an anticholinergic medication) is also very effec...

Read the Nasal Allergy Medications article »

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Azmacort Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

TRIAMCINOLONE - ORAL INHALATION

(trye-am-SIN-oh-lone)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Azmacort

USES: Triamcinolone is used to prevent and control symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works directly in the lungs to make breathing easier by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways.

This medication must be used regularly to prevent breathing problems (attacks of wheezing/shortness of breath). It does not work immediately and should not be used to relieve an asthma attack. If an attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used to treat lung diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Follow the illustrated directions for the proper use of this medication. If you have any questions, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist.

Follow the instructions for priming the inhaler if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for 3 days or more. Shake the canister well before each use. Avoid getting medication in your eyes when priming or using the inhaler.

Inhale this medication by mouth, usually 2-4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

If 2 or more inhalations/puffs for each dose are prescribed, wait at least 1 minute between them. Shake the canister well between each puff.

To prevent dry mouth, hoarseness, and fungal infection of the mouth, rinse your mouth with water after each use. Do not swallow the rinse water.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Follow the dosing schedule carefully. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Keep track of the number of inhalations used. Discard the canister after using the labeled number of inhalations on the package, even if it feels as though there is medication left in the canister. Follow the instructions for cleaning the inhaler.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Learn which of your inhalers you should use every day and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens. Ask your doctor what to do if you have worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, or worsening peak flow meter readings. Learn when you can self-medicate and when you should get medical help right away.

If you are regularly using a different corticosteroid taken by mouth (such as prednisone), you should not stop using it unless directed by your doctor. You may have withdrawal symptoms if the drug is suddenly stopped. Some conditions (such as asthma, allergies) may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. To prevent withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness), your doctor may direct you to slowly lower the dose of your old medication after you are using triamcinolone. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately. See also Precautions section.

Keep track of how often you need to use your quick-relief inhaler and inform your doctor. If your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to work as well or if you need to use more of your quick-relief inhaler than usual for 2 or more days in a row, seek immediate medical attention.

You may begin to feel this medication working within a week, but it may take 2 weeks or longer before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.