From the FDA Drug Label
KENALOG-40 40 mg per 10 mL Injectable Suspension KENALOG®-40(triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension, USP)40 mg per mLFor intramuscular or intra-articular use only The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Kenalog (triamcinolone acetonide) for allergies is typically administered as an intramuscular injection at a dosage of 40 mg for adults, though this can range from 20-80 mg depending on the severity of symptoms, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1. The effects generally last 3-4 weeks with a single injection. Children may receive lower doses based on weight, usually 0.5-1 mg per kg of body weight. This medication works by suppressing the immune system's inflammatory response to allergens, reducing symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness. Some key points to consider when administering Kenalog for allergies include:
- Potential side effects, such as increased blood sugar, mood changes, weight gain, and reduced immune function, as noted in various studies 2, 3.
- The importance of administration by a healthcare provider, rather than self-administration, due to the potential for adverse reactions, as highlighted in a case report of an anaphylactic reaction to intra-articular triamcinolone 3.
- The need for personalized dosing recommendations, particularly for patients with diabetes, infections, or other medical conditions that may require dosage adjustments, as suggested by research on the systemic bioactivity of intranasal triamcinolone and mometasone in perennial allergic rhinitis 4.
- The consideration of alternative treatments, such as oral antihistamines or topical steroids, for patients who may not be suitable candidates for Kenalog injections, as discussed in a risk-benefit assessment of intranasal triamcinolone acetonide in allergic rhinitis 1.