From the Guidelines
Kenalog shots are not the preferred choice for intraarticular glucocorticoid injections, as triamcinolone hexacetonide is strongly recommended over triamcinolone acetonide due to its superior efficacy 1. When considering the use of Kenalog shots, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks, particularly in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and polyarthritis. According to the 2019 American College of Rheumatology guideline 1, intraarticular glucocorticoids are conditionally recommended as adjunct therapy, but triamcinolone hexacetonide is the preferred agent. Some key points to consider when using Kenalog shots include:
- The typical dose of Kenalog ranges from 10-40 mg of triamcinolone acetonide per injection 1.
- The effects of Kenalog shots can last anywhere from 1-6 weeks, with relief often beginning within 24-48 hours after injection.
- Common uses for Kenalog shots include treating severe allergies, inflammatory conditions like arthritis, and skin disorders such as psoriasis or eczema.
- Potential side effects may include temporary pain at the injection site, changes in blood sugar levels, mood changes, and with repeated use, potential adrenal suppression or tissue atrophy 1. It is crucial to note that Kenalog shots should only be administered by healthcare professionals, and patients should disclose their complete medical history and medication list before receiving a Kenalog shot to avoid potential complications or interactions 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Glucocorticoids, naturally occurring and synthetic, are adrenocortical steroids that are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states Synthetic analogs such as triamcinolone are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems. KENALOG-40 Injection and KENALOG-80 Injection have an extended duration of effect which may be sustained over a period of several weeks Studies indicate that following a single intramuscular dose of 60 mg to 100 mg of triamcinolone acetonide, adrenal suppression occurs within 24 to 48 hours and then gradually returns to normal, usually in 30 to 40 days. This finding correlates closely with the extended duration of therapeutic action achieved with the drug. The Kenalog shot, also known as triamcinolone acetonide, is a synthetic glucocorticoid used for its anti-inflammatory effects.
- It has an extended duration of effect, lasting several weeks.
- A single intramuscular dose of 60 mg to 100 mg can cause adrenal suppression within 24 to 48 hours, returning to normal in 30 to 40 days 2.
From the Research
Kenalog Shot Overview
- A Kenalog shot is a type of intra-articular glucocorticoid injection, which is used to treat various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
- The shot typically contains triamcinolone, a synthetic glucocorticoid that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the affected joint.
Efficacy of Intra-Articular Glucocorticoid Injections
- Studies have shown that intra-articular glucocorticoid injections, such as Kenalog shots, can be effective in reducing disease activity and improving symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis 3.
- A study published in the Journal of the Association of Physicians of India found that patients with early rheumatoid arthritis who received intra-articular triamcinolone injections in combination with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) had significant reductions in disease activity and improvements in symptoms compared to those who received DMARDs alone 3.
- Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that a treat-to-target strategy that included intra-articular glucocorticoid injections, oral glucocorticoids, and DMARDs was safe and efficacious in patients with rheumatoid arthritis 4.
Use in Psoriatic Arthritis
- Intra-articular glucocorticoid injections, such as Kenalog shots, may also be used to treat psoriatic arthritis, although the evidence is limited 5, 6.
- A systematic literature review published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that there is some evidence to support the use of intra-articular glucocorticoid injections in psoriatic arthritis, although more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety 6.