(NAPSI)If youre one of the millions of Americans who suffers from a skin disease like eczema or psoriasis, then most likely you have been prescribed a topical corticosteroid treatment to help manage your condition.1

Topical corticosteroids are one of the most useful medications for treating eczema and psoriasis and come in a variety of strengths (potencies) and formulations (creams, ointments, lotions, gels, foams, mousses and shampoos).1

When talking to your doctor about which topical corticosteroid is right for you, consider the following factors:

Which strength is right for you? Not all strengths work the same for every patient.1 Medium to high potency topical corticosteroids tend to be the most effective for treating eczema.1

Do you prefer a cream or ointment? Often, patients find creams more cosmetically acceptable than greasy ointment formulations, even though ointments are generally considered more potent than cream formulations of the same strength.1

Do you need to avoid preservatives or fragrances? Fragrances or preservatives, such as propylene glycol, are often found in creams and can cause irritation, stinging and allergic reactions.1

Does your doctor have a sample for you to try? Trial sizes can offer significant benefits to both the physician and the patient in establishing the appropriate care protocol.

Physicians often offer their patients triamcinolone, the most frequently prescribed topical corticosteroid2. One option is fragrance and preservative-free Trianex 0.05% (Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment), a mid-potency triamcinolone ointment formulated with a unique base that provides the strength of an ointment with the feel of a cream. Trianex is indicated for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by certain skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids.

Ask your doctor if Trianex is right for you. If you are prescribed Trianex, you may be eligible to take advantage of the Trianex Instant Savings Card-as little as a $5 co-pay on each of your next three prescriptions for Trianex-regardless of whether you pay cash or have insurance (some limitations may apply). The program expires on December 31, 2012. Visit www.trianex-usl.com for additional details.

Trianex 0.05% (Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment) is indicated for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by certain skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids. It should be used as directed by a physician for the skin condition for which it was prescribed.

Important Safety Information

Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids has produced a reversible hormone disorder called Cushings syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria in some patients, including children. Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic toxicity. Administration of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the smallest amount necessary.

The treated skin area should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped so as to be occlusive, unless directed by the physician. Do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on a child being treated in the diaper area, as these garments may constitute occlusive dressings.

Patients should report any signs of local adverse reactions, especially under occlusive dressings. Local adverse reactions infrequently reported with topical corticosteroids include burning, itching, irritation, inflammation, dryness, infection, excessive hair growth, acne-like lesions, lightened skin color, allergic contact dermatitis, breakdown of the skin, stretch marks, and heat rash. If irritation develops, topical corticosteroids should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.

Trianex is for external use only. It should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in Trianex. Avoid contact with eyes. This safety information is not all-inclusive. Please see Full Prescribing Information at www.trianex-usl.com or call (800) 654-2299 for more information. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call (800) FDA-1088.

Trianex is marketed in the U.S. by Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

References

1. Ference JD, Last AR. Choosing topical corticosteroids. Am Fam Physician.

2009;79(2):135-140.

2. IMS TRx data, 2011.

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate (NAPSI)