Kenalog or Triamcinolone shots are generally safe and is a common shot given by doctors to patients who are experiencing pain and inflammation in certain parts of their bodies (particularly on the joint, areas around the joint or soft tissue). The shot is most commonly used for.

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Bursitis
• Rhinoplasty
• Other cosmetic procedures

As to any type of injection or shot, the pros and cons should be discussed with your doctor for you to make an informed decision.

How Does Kenalog Injections Work?

Kenalog injections contain an active ingredient called Triamcinolone, which is classified as a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are naturally produced by our body through our adrenal glands. One of the important functions of the adrenal glands is the control of inflammatory responses. Triamcinolone reduces inflammation by helping the body stop the cells from releasing chemicals that produce allergic responses. With the proper dosage and medical guidance, it can help you manage various medical conditions and symptoms.

How Is It Administered?

Kenalog injections are pretty much straightforward. It is given directly into the inflamed soft tissue or directly into a joint to lessen the inflammation and pain in that particular localized area. After the shot, there are also mobility improvement in the area. Remember to not overuse joints that feel better after the joint injection, as the inflammatory process may remain active. Kenalog injections are also given by injection into the muscle of the buttock in situations where a lasting corticosteroid effect is needed. The triamcinolone is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and thus, one injection produces an effect for up to three weeks. If another injection is needed to be administered, it should be given into the alternate buttocks of the patient. For people suffering from hay fever, one injection can relieve symptoms over the entire hay fever season.

Other Uses of Kenalog Shots

Since it is a common shot, it is also widely used in the care or maintenance of other diseases. Here are some of the diseases and conditions where Kenalog shots are beneficial.

• Leukemia
• Cancer of the lymph nodes (Lymphoma)
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia)
• Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Systemic lupus
• Acute interstitial nephritis
• Allergic skin disorders
• Stevens-Johnson Syndrome

Common Side Effects of Kenalog Shots

All types of medications or injections have their own set of side effects. If you are feeling some of the symptoms below, it is best to consult your doctor for the best course of action.

• Muscle weakness
• Fluid retention
• Menstrual period changes
• Hypertension
• Headache
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Abdominal bloating, nausea, ulceration of the stomach or intestine
• Mental health problems, such as depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, confusion, memory loss, delusions or hallucinations
• Insomnia
• Thinning of the bones (Osteoporosis)
• Raised pressure inside the eye (glaucoma), cataracts
• Slowed growth in children and adolescents
• Blood clots in the blood vessels (Thromboembolism)

Consulting Your Doctor

If you are currently taking several medications that you think may cause a reaction to Kenalog shots, it is best to consult your doctor for the best medical advice.