Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Triamcinolone (Trianex, Triderm, Kenalog, Tritocin, Triasil) and ketoconazole (Nizoral) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid used topically to treat various skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and mouth sores, while ketoconazole is an azole antifungal taken orally to treat serious systemic fungal infections. Triamcinolone is available in multiple formulations, including creams, ointments, and dental paste, whereas ketoconazole is available as a tablet. Triamcinolone is generally used for short-term treatment due to risks like skin thinning and high blood sugar. Ketoconazole is reserved for severe infections due to its potential for serious side effects, such as liver damage and heart rhythm problems. Additionally, ketoconazole interacts with many medications and requires careful monitoring, unlike triamcinolone, which has fewer drug interactions. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms.
Triamcinolone
Ketoconazole tablet
Triamcinolone
Ketoconazole tablet
Summary of Triamcinolone vs. Nizoral
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Triamcinolone is a topical corticosteroid used to treat different inflammatory skin conditions, like eczemapsoriasis, 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.
Summary for Antifungal
Prescription only
Ketoconazole tablet is taken by mouth to treat certain serious fungal infections, including ones caused by blastomycosis and coccidioidomycosis (also known as "valley fever"). Ketoconazole tablet isn't a first-choice option, but it's only for people who haven't responded well to or can't take safer alternative antifungals. This is because ketoconazole tablet can interact with many medications and potentially serious side effects, such as heart rhythm problems and liver problems. It's available as a lower-cost generic tablet by prescription only.