From the Research
Intra-articular knee injections of Kenalog (triamcinolone) can potentially cause heart palpitations or tachycardia, though this is considered an uncommon side effect. This is based on the understanding that triamcinolone is a corticosteroid that, even when injected into a joint, can be absorbed systemically into the bloodstream 1. The systemic absorption varies between patients and depends on factors such as the dose administered, joint vascularity, and individual metabolism. When absorbed systemically, corticosteroids like triamcinolone can affect the cardiovascular system by increasing heart rate and potentially causing palpitations.
Some key points to consider:
- Patients with pre-existing heart conditions, those taking medications that affect heart rhythm, or individuals sensitive to steroids may be at higher risk for experiencing these side effects 2.
- The dose of triamcinolone administered can impact the risk of systemic side effects, with typical doses for knee injections ranging from 20-80 mg 3.
- If you experience heart palpitations following a Kenalog injection, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly, as this could indicate significant systemic absorption of the medication 4.
- Your doctor may need to evaluate the appropriateness of future injections or consider alternative treatments based on your individual response 5.
It's essential to weigh the potential benefits of intra-articular Kenalog injections against the risks, particularly for patients with a history of cardiovascular issues or those taking medications that could interact with corticosteroids. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2021, which highlights the importance of considering systemic absorption and potential side effects when using locally injected glucocorticoids 1.