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Compare Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Fluocinonide (Vanos) and triamcinolone (Triderm, Triasil, Tritocin, Kenalog) are both topical corticosteroids used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. They work by reducing inflammation and calming the immune system. However, there are some differences between the two. Fluocinonide is available in cream, ointment, gel, and topical solution forms, while triamcinolone comes in cream, ointment, lotion, and spray forms. Fluocinonide is available in two strengths (0.05% and 0.1%), with the higher strength not recommended for children under 12 or for use on the face, underarms, or groin. Triamcinolone is available in multiple strengths and is generally considered a medium-strength steroid. Both medications are not meant for long-term use, but fluocinonide may need to be applied up to four times a day, while triamcinolone's application frequency varies by formulation. Common side effects for both include burning and itching, but fluocinonide can also cause headaches, while triamcinolone may lead to skin thinning and acne-like bumps. Both medications can increase the risk of skin infections if used improperly.

  • Fluocinonide (Vanos)
    Triamcinolone
  • Fluocinonide (Vanos)
    Triamcinolone

  • Summary of Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Fluocinonide (Vanos) is a strong topical steroid that treats skin inflammation and irritation, but it's not meant for long-term use. The medication comes in many different forms, such as a cream, ointment, gel, and topical solution.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Triamcinolone is a topical corticosteroid used to treat different inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema psoriasis, or skin allergies, in adults and children. It works by reducing inflammation, redness, and irritation. The medication is available in various formulations, such as cream, ointment, lotion, and topical spray. Depending on the formulation, it's typically applied between 2 to 4 times a day. Side effects are rare, but can include burning, itching, and dryness at the application site.

  • Indications of Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Indications for
    •Skin inflammation disorders, including psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis
    Indications for
    •Inflammatory skin conditions

  • Pros and Cons of Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Treats a variety of skin conditions
    •Has few side effects when used for short periods of time
    •Available as a cream, gel, ointment, and topical solution
    •Comes in two different strengths, providing some flexibility based on your symptoms
    Cons
    •Not meant for long-term use
    •Might have to apply it up to 4 times a day
    •The higher strength (0.1%) shouldn't be used in children under 12 years old.
    •Not the best option for treating the face, underarms, or groin (higher strength can't be used for these areas at all)
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Symptoms typically start to improve within a few days
    •Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, lotion, and spray
    •Might have less side effects compared to oral steroids that you take by mouth
    Cons
    •For short-term use only
    •Children might absorb more of this medication, raising the risk of side effects
    •Needs to be applied multiple times a day

  • Common Side Effects of Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (4%)
    •Burning where fluocinonide (Vanos) was applied (2%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning
    •Itching
    •Skin irritation
    •Dry skin

  • Warnings of Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Common Side Effects for
    •CHANGE IN HORMONES
    •SKIN REACTIONS
    •SKIN INFECTIONS
    •ALLERGIC REACTIONS
    Common Side Effects for
    •Reduced adrenal gland function
    •Skin infection
    •Skin problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Fluocinonide vs. Triamcinolone

    Learn more about Fluocinonide
    Learn more about Triamcinolone

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