Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Halcinonide (Halog) and Triamcinolone (Kenalog) are both corticosteroids, but they are used differently and have distinct forms. Halcinonide (Halog) is a strong topical corticosteroid applied to the skin to treat inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. It is available in cream, ointment, and solution forms, and you need to apply it 2 to 3 times a day. On the other hand, Triamcinolone (Kenalog) is an injectable corticosteroid used for a wide range of conditions, including gout attacks, allergies, and arthritis. It is administered either intramuscularly or intra-articularly, with doses varying based on the condition being treated. Both medications are availible in generic forms. Additionally, Halcinonide (Halog) is more focused on skin conditions, whereas Triamcinolone (Kenalog) has broader applications, including autoimmune and hormone-related conditions. Both medications can weaken your immune system, but Triamcinolone (Kenalog) has more extensive side effects, such as mood changes and bone loss, and is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Halcinonide (Halog)
Triamcinolone injection (Kenalog)
Halcinonide (Halog)
Triamcinolone injection (Kenalog)
Summary of Halog vs. Kenalog
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Halcinonide (Halog) is a prescription topical steroid. It's used to treat many types of inflammatory and itchy skin conditions. Halcinonide (Halog) is applied directly to the skin 2 or 3 times per day. This medication comes as a cream and topical solution. Side effects aren't common, but can include skin burning and irritation.
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Triamcinolone injection (Kenalog) is a steroid injection that helps reduce inflammation in adults and children. The medication is used to treat many conditions, including allergies, skin conditions, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and gout attacks. It's typically given as a shot into the muscle (intramuscular) or directly into the affected joint (intra-articular). Side effects are similar to other steroid medications and can include trouble sleeping, mood changes, and injection side reactions.
Indications of Halog vs. Kenalog
Indications for
•Inflammatory and itchy skin conditions
Indications for
This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include: