Keloids are an overgrowth of scar tissue that forms at the site of a skin injury. These raised scars can be itchy, painful, and cosmetically concerning for many people. Fortunately, several medications can help manage and reduce keloids. Below, we’ll explore some of the most commonly used drugs for keloid treatment.
Drugs Used to Treat Keloids
Medications for keloids generally work by reducing inflammation, suppressing excessive collagen production, or softening scar tissue. Here are some of the top medications used to treat keloids:
1. Triamcinolone
- Rating: 4.3/5 (based on patient reviews)
- Prescription: Required (Rx)
- Pregnancy Category: C
- Controlled Substance Act (CSA) Schedule: Not controlled (N)
- Description: Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid injected directly into the keloid to reduce inflammation and shrink the scar over time. It is one of the most common first-line treatments for keloids.
2. Kenalog-40
- Rating: 4.3/5 (based on patient reviews)
- Prescription: Required (Rx)
- Pregnancy Category: C
- CSA Schedule: Not controlled (N)
- Description: This is a stronger form of triamcinolone that helps reduce the size and hardness of keloids through direct injection into the affected area.
3. Kenalog-10
- Rating: Not yet rated
- Prescription: Required (Rx)
- Pregnancy Category: C
- CSA Schedule: Not controlled (N)
- Description: A lower-dose version of Kenalog, used for smaller keloids or less aggressive treatment.
4. Aristospan
- Rating: Not yet rated
- Prescription: Required (Rx)
- Pregnancy Category: C
- CSA Schedule: Not controlled (N)
- Description: Another corticosteroid used for treating keloids by reducing inflammation and preventing excessive scar growth.
5. Clinacort
- Rating: Not yet rated
- Prescription: Required (Rx)
- Pregnancy Category: C
- CSA Schedule: Not controlled (N)
- Description: This medication works similarly to other corticosteroids by limiting keloid growth and softening scar tissue over time.
How to Use These Medications
Most of these medications are administered as injections directly into the keloid every 3 to 4 weeks until the scar becomes less noticeable. Some patients may need multiple sessions to see significant improvement.
Are There Side Effects?
Common side effects of corticosteroid injections include:
- Skin thinning
- Lightening or darkening of the skin
- Temporary swelling or redness
Other Treatment Options
While medications can be effective, some people combine them with other treatments like:
- Silicone sheets or gels (to soften and flatten keloids)
- Laser therapy (to improve texture and color)
- Surgical removal (for large keloids, though recurrence is possible)
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with keloids, these medications could be a helpful treatment option. Always consult with a dermatologist or medical professional to find the best approach for your skin.
Do you have any experiences with keloid treatments? Share your thoughts in the comments!