Kenalog is the brand name for topical triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid that’s also commonly referred to as a steroid. These topical medications are commonly used to treat eczema and other types of dermatitis (known as “atopic skin”).
However, they aren’t always readily available over the counter. This article will explain why you can’t get Kenalog over the counter, what alternatives you have, and where you can find it.
Table of Contents
What is Kenalog?
Kenalog is a brand name for topical triamcinolone acetonide, a corticosteroid that’s also commonly referred to as a steroid. These topical medications are commonly used to treat eczema and other types of dermatitis (known as “atopic skin”).
How does Kenalog work?
Kenalog works by blocking the production of certain hormones in the body that can cause inflammation. When the immune system is overactive, the body produces excess amounts of chemicals called cytokines.
Cytokines can cause inflammation and swelling, which is why people with eczema or other skin conditions often experience redness, itching, flaking, and irritation. Kenalog is applied directly to the skin to stop inflammation and help clear up eczema and other skin conditions.
Why can’t you get Kenalog over the counter?
Kenalog is a steroid, which means it has the potential to cause serious side effects when used for a long period of time. While topical steroids are generally safe when used for a short period of time (about two weeks or so), they’re generally not available over the counter.
This is because they can cause a number of side effects including thinning skin, stretch marks, and allergic reactions in the skin.
Topical steroids are also only meant to be used when eczema or another skin condition is really bad. They’re not meant to be a long-term solution, but instead should be used for a few weeks until the eczema has cleared up.
Where to find Kenalog and other steroid creams over the counter
Steroid creams are used for a variety of skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and other rashes. You can find steroid creams over the counter in many pharmacies, like Walgreens and CVS.
Some examples of common steroid creams include:
- Clobex
- Desitin
- Dr. Scholl’s Medicated Anti-fungal Foot Cream
- Kenalog
- Lotemax
- etc
Keep in mind that these steroid creams aren’t regulated by the FDA. This means that you could buy a product that’s expired or has been tampered with. It’s important to buy creams from a reputable source so you don’t risk buying something that’s not medicine or that has been contaminated.
Alternatives to Kenalog
While Kenalog is the most common brand name for a steroid cream, there are several other options available. If you’d like to try a different brand, there should be instructions on the packaging on how to use it.
Cortisone creams are also topical steroids, but they’re available over the counter without a prescription. You can find these creams at most pharmacies.
There are a few different brands of cortisone creams available, including Cortaid, Preparation H, and Vaseline Intensive Care.
If you do need a prescription for a steroid cream, you can ask your doctor for a balm or ointment. They’re generally easier to apply to the skin than creams.
Conclusion
Kenalog is a brand name for topical triamcinolone acetonide, a type of steroid that’s commonly used to treat eczema and other skin conditions. In addition to treating eczema, these creams are also often used to treat bug bites and other skin conditions. Steroid creams are available over the counter (OTC), but you may need a prescription for a stronger version.
Kenalog is a brand name for topical triamcinolone acetonide, a type of steroid that’s commonly used to treat eczema and other skin conditions. In addition to treating eczema, these creams are also often used to treat bug bites and other skin conditions.
Steroid creams are available over the counter (OTC), but you may need a prescription for a stronger version.
