Synonym
Triamcinolone acetonideVolon® A is a drug belonging to the glucocorticoid group. Glucocorticoids have the property of counteracting inflammation and allergies and reducing the body’s immune response. Due to these three properties of Volon® A it can be used in a wide range of diseases.
The application ranges from inflammatory skin diseases to rheumatic diseases and allergic reactions. However, Volon® A does not eliminate the cause of the complaints, but only improves the symptoms. Volon® A is a prescription drug.
Mode of action
As a glucocorticoid, Volon® A attacks receptors of protein biosynthesis, resulting in reduced production of proteins required for inflammatory and allergic reactions. If these proteins are missing, the ability of the immune system to function is reduced. Volon® A also has an inhibitory effect on cell proliferation. Volon® A has a decongestant effect on the bronchial mucosa and causes the bronchi to dilate.
Fields of application
Volon® A can be used for many different complaints due to its versatile mode of action. It is particularly frequently used for:
- Skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema (itching), radiation erythema, erythema nodosum
- Rheumatic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or acute rheumatic fever
- Allergic reactions like allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis and septic shock. Volon® A can also be used for severe allergic reactions to insect bites.
- Lung diseases such as (chronic) bronchitis, COPD, asthma or sarcoidosis
- Diseases of the stomach and intestines such as Crohn’s disease
- Kidney diseases such as nephrotic syndrome.
Pharmaceutical form and dosages
Volon® A is available as tablet, ointment or syringe. Which form is most suitable depends on the disease to be treated with Volon® A. The daily dose also varies between 10 – 280 mg/day depending on the area of application. For long-term therapy, the dosage should be kept low if possible to reduce the side effects of long-term use.
Side effects
Volon® A is characterized by side effects during long-term use and high dosage. A typical consequence of long-term high doses is the development of Cushing’s syndrome, which causes weight gain, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and hormonal disorders. Since Volon® A suppresses the immune system, it leads to susceptibility to infections.
This applies to new infections with pathogens, but also to existing diseases that the body has already had under control. The drug also has an effect on bone metabolism when taken over a longer period of time, so that it can lead to osteoporosis or worsen an already existing osteoporosis. An effect on the central nervous system is also possible.
Sleep disorders, listlessness and mental illness can occur. If a non-symptomatic diabetes mellitus already exists, it can lead to symptoms by taking Volon® A and must be treated accordingly immediately. Since the drug inhibits cell division, growth disorders occur in children, which in most cases regress after the end of therapy.
