From the FDA Drug Label
Allergic states: Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, serum sickness, transfusion reactions. The Kenalog shot is indicated for the control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions, including perennial or seasonal allergic rhinitis, when conventional treatment is not feasible 1.
- The shot can be used for allergic states such as:
- Asthma
- Atopic dermatitis
- Contact dermatitis
- Drug hypersensitivity reactions
- Seasonal allergic rhinitis
- Perennial allergic rhinitis
- It is used when the allergic condition is intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment.
From the Research
Kenalog shots should not be the first line of treatment for allergies, but rather considered for short-term management of severe allergies that don't respond to other treatments, such as a combination of nasal steroids and antihistamines, as shown in a 2021 study 2. When considering treatment for allergies, it's essential to prioritize the most effective and safest options. A 2021 study published in the American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy found that the concomitant use of nasal steroids and antihistamines significantly decreases total oxidative stress in allergic rhinitis patients 2.
Key Points to Consider:
- The combination of nasal steroids and antihistamines has been shown to be more effective than solo treatments in improving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, as demonstrated in a 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis 3.
- Kenalog injections can provide significant relief for severe allergies, but their use should be limited to short-term management due to potential side effects and long-term complications, such as increased blood sugar, mood changes, weight gain, and reduced immune function.
- It's crucial to discuss your complete medical history with your doctor before receiving Kenalog treatment, as it may not be suitable for people with certain conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, or active infections.
Treatment Options:
- Nasal steroids, such as mometasone furoate, can be effective in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
- Antihistamines, such as rupatadine fumarate, can be used in combination with nasal steroids to enhance treatment efficacy.
- Kenalog injections, with a typical dose ranging from 40 to 80 mg, can be considered for short-term management of severe allergies that don't respond to other treatments.