Kenalog side effects

mild cramps and light vaginal bleeding in 59 year old woman

I have not had Kenalog yet and will not now. I had some cosmetic surgery done and it left me with a small jowl and the plastic surgeon said she would put an injection of Kenalog there to reduce it. She said the Kenalog will remove the fat there and cause the "jowl" to reduce. I have come to this website looking for info before allowing this procedure. However, the Dr. said that Kenalog was for arthritis but they found that it caused fat to disappear and they began using it in plastic surgery. Anyone have any info? Thanks

I had the same steroid injection for tonsillitis this past January in both cheeks. I now too have noticed a large indentation in my right butt cheek. I was never informed of this possible side effect either. I would definitely be interested in pursuing a class action regarding the disfigurement of my previously favorite body-part. Had I been informed of such, I would have just had my tonsils removed!!

I did a post a few days ago--but must add to it. I have SLE, MS, CAD, HBP, having 5 stents, asoteoporosis, arachnoiditis, cerebritis/vasculitis from lupus, chronic pain(fibramyalgia) and a bucn more that ill give u sum idea. I am also a RN for28 years and KNOW what medications can do. I mena come on lets face it--if we ALL read THOROUGHLY all the inserts with ANY medication--NONE of us wud take any of it. Even ADVIL and ASA have horrific side effect.!! I saw my doctor yesterday afternoon due to this rash--not my typical lupus reash---doesn't look like discoid lupus, it begins on my chest goes uop my face then all down my back then gradually works its way down my leg---it gets rasm, macular and some some end up with a popular looking area. The PAIN from if is almost as bad as the itch from the rash. I have had shingles and it is similar to that pain. I have been putting topical steroid base creams all over to no avail. I begged my doctor for the KENOLOG shot and discussed GREATLY the side effects: I have had a hysterectomy so that is nothing, it cause cause a psychosis, depression, panic racing thots insomnia--basically ALL the side effects everyone has mentioned---but IT WORKS -I JUST GOT UP AND THIS DIFFIGURING DISCUSTING RASH ALL OVER IS ALMOST 90% GONE!!!! Like I said I have been on steroids most of my life--and I KNOW the side effects of them--PERIOD. Educated patients READ the inserts and ask their doctors---all meds have risks but the questio is does the risk outweigh the benefit t
??????????? I am on a mediation that has you with an increase of 10-15% increase of having an heart attack--which I have had two--but I CHOOSE to take it becuz the benefit outweighs the risks. I understand 100% all the complaints concerns and everything, attorneys will NOT take cases where the medication is used and adminierted the correct way--esp. when the side effects are clearly listed. Doctors are TOO freaking bust these days to sit and TALK and explain every side effect with each of their patients. Does each of you know that the average physician HAS TO SEE at least 60---yes sixty patients A DAY???? That is actually in their contract--thata approximately 7 and a half minutes ith each of us.!!!!!!! Make a list of all ur concerns, questions etc for the doctor and I do this ---I manuaver my chair to in feonrt of the door and I DO NOT LT THE DOCTOR OUT until he has answered ALL my concerns---yea they get mad tell me I can't do that--and my response is is IF YOU can make me wait in ur office lobby for more than an hour--I will do what I have to do to get proper CARE!!! Shuts most of them up. But I am lucky I do have 6 of the most careling and compassionate physicians--I have lucked up--I have had my share of "stupid" doctors but-hey WE are the patient-=-go to another one until ya get one ya like. If you go to other website about medicine there are many more complaints and unhappy patients with medications they take. But I understand where all of US are coming from---Doctors are no different than us--and they are not GOD--they make mistakes and as long as they don't KNOWING harm you---or commit fraud--no lawsuit happening---now sueing the MAKER of kenalog MAY be a possibility( my sisiter is an attorny) thats her advice and itd have to be a class action suit and its kinda sad--patients don't ever get much in things like this but its worth a shot!!!

I have been on prednisone on and off most of my life. I have sysyemic lupus and many other medical diagnosis--but I had a svere rash all over that didn't respond to PO steroids--even high doses--100 mg a day. I saw my dermatologist and she said the Kenalog wud clear it right up--not once did she mention ANY side effects. Now, I know me--and how I respond to medications. While on prednisone--I have to take sleeping pills, and anti-anxiety agents or I become truly psychotic. But I am telling you what--I have NEVER had such a psychotic--nervous reaction to anything. I was like a different person and taking 10 mg of valium, ambien and resperdal did NOTHING to combat theanxiety and psychosis caused by the kenalog---not sure if its metabolized differently than the PO steroids but I truly could not sit still for days after getting the injection. But I am telling ya--IT WORKED!!! In about 72 hours this horrific psoriasis looking rash was drying up and disappearing. I had no problem with it leaving a mark in my buttocks either--I just checked to make sure--but--this is a miracle medication--but the side effects are HORIYFYING!!!!!! iN FACT, i HAVE THE RASH BACK--MY pcp THINKS ITS FROM LUPUS AND ONCE AGAIN THE PO STEROIDA SRE DOING NOTHING--SO i AM GOING BACK TO THE DERMATOLOGIST TO GET ANOTHER SHOT--BUT WILL DEFIANTLY GET A PRESCRIPTION FOR xanax, valium AND ANYTHING TO MAKE ME SLEEP AND NOT GET THE PSYCHOSIS.Oh---it does causeyou to gain weight---I gained close to 25 pounds in 10 days and have yet to lose it. and I have been on steroids most of my life and not gained that much--EVER!!!!! And LASIX does nothing for the fluid retention and swelling. MY heart felt as tho it was gonna beat out of my chest--and my heart rate and blood pressure went sky high--and I am on caridzem 120, and toprol for HBP. If you can tolerate the side effects--than this medication will treat whatever ails ya!!!

I am a 54yr old male and recently I have had a low impact fall and

fractured my Tibia and Fibia (the bones below in my knee on my left

leg) and also dislocated my foot at the same time. The surgeons

were most interested to find out that I have had Kenalog injections

for hayfever for the last 35 years. Two years ago the doctors

refused to prescribe Kenalog anymore as they said it can cause a

thinning of the bones. I was not told of these side effects

previously.
The surgeons said that I have osteoporosis as I had only had a low

impact fall. So I would be interested if anyone else has been

diagnosed with osteoporosis due to this Corticosteroid injection.

Having been informed of the side effects of this medicine I would

have not had it. I would advise anybody to seriously consider the

side effects before taking this product.

I also received a kenalog injection from a dermatologist for rashes that wouldn't go away. He told me ONLY that it would probably mess up my menstrual cycle. I thought "yeah sure that sounds great" I just wanted relief from all the itching. The rash did go away but i started to notice a dent where they gave me the injection. It has since gotten bigger and I am scared and wondering what is going on with me. My doctor never told me of atrophy or even that it was a possibility. I consulted with another doctor who told me he is not sure how this couldn't happened and that they probly injected in the wrong site. i now know after coming to this site that i am not alone and it is the kenalog that has caused me grief. Doctors need to be responsible in letting patients know every detail about the drug they are using on us. I was reassured by him that my only side affect would be irregular periods. Hopefully one day mine will go away but until the people need to be educated on certain steroids.

I do understand that this medication can be helpful for some people and for them, the benefits out-weigh the side effects. For this reason, I don't think that this med should be taken off the market, but I DO think that we, as patients, deserve to be explained these side effects before we are just injected with such a powerful drug!!
I went in to a walk-in clinic with allergy symptoms that were not relieved by OTC drugs. Nothing super- severe that I couldn't stand, but I was looking for something to make me feel better and the Dr. prescribed Kenalog. No side effects were mentioned/discussed. A nurse came in and gave me the shot. A few months later, I noticed the dent on my left buttocks area. I was very worried because it looked SO bad! The dent has increased in size and depth over the months. My PCP told me that it was most likely from the Kenalog injection but I have an ultrasound scheduled to find out how extensive the atrophy is! She says that it only destroys the tissue and fat but I know for a fact by feeling the area that the muscle underneath is completely gone!! How can this shot be given to patients without a verbal description of possible side effects and a written consent!!
I've read that some people have been lucky enough to have the "dent" go away! How long did that take?? I am only hoping that I am as lucky!!! It is such an UGLY site!! Luckily it is covered by a swimsuit and my fiance doesn't find it as ugly as I do!!

I agree Kenalog has a lot of adverse reactions, being a nurse myself, I suffer from pollen, ragweed, mold, dust mites I can go on and on, and have swollen eyes and wheeze/sob almost on a daily basis from asthma and allergies all yr around, am tired all the time ... I have a heart murmur so I cant take the fast acting inhalers, I also suffer from panic disorder, have 2 benign lung nodules on my left upper lung as of today, still in my 2 yr for the sit back and see if it grows follow up with cat scans every 6 month's, my 19 yr old son passed away from a brain bleed in 06, and am still working in nursing where I want to help out other's, it has changed my thought process to live life to the fullest , try not to dwell on the petty things in life, and yeah every single drug that helps us in one way or another has a side-effect, don't pitty me , just think about this , or at least this is how I get by, I sit and weigh my options, would i rather have sweaty palms, rapid heart rate, tired a lot of the time, mod joint pain, period irr and pit in my butt leg and foot cramps day and night a few, h/a's rather than to, sneeze 24/7, have nasty swollen eyes that burn and hurt to the point I cant see, or not be able to take in one deep breathe and feel like im breathing through a straw, yeah you may not like this post, but to all the people who do not have a whole lot of medical knowledge, I ask you to do your research, don't beg the lawyers to take it off the market, thats what I call petty in my case Kenalog is a godsend!.. have the smarts before you go in, after all they are just Dr's not GOD..we should all re-evaluate what is a priority in our lives, since the death of my son in 06 I have, but please note people , its not the Dr's faults , we need to know what we are taking and have all the info before we take it whether it be the internet, a PDR, they are free to read in the library as well in every doctor office just ask to see one (that might through them into shock making them think your having a part in your health as well), a local pharmacist, because lets face it this world is becoming a fast paced, whirlwind circus and in the end, we all just cant sit back and blame the busy Dr's. I will say one thing though, Kudos to all the Nurses in this world, if it were not for us, now where would the Dr's be :P ..so make the best out of life, we never know whats around the corner, but most of all remember EVERY single drug has a side-effect every one of them, we must realize that we have to take the good with the bad..been there still doing it... take chare of your life, be informed, or get the info, you can do everyone of you! Just food for thought.

thank you soo much for posting this!!!!
I had my first Kenalog shot on June 4th 2008. My periods were scheduled for June 13th and it came on the day. It ended on june 18th. On june 24th a week later, I started having pain in my uterus, i thought it was strange tht i was having period pains after i had finished my period. I am very regular..every 28 days..so im on day 3 of my second period for the month and I am doing my research...and i came across this website. I am stopping the injections right awayyy never again. I was never told of the side effects...I am soo angry!!

I have had so many shots of
Corticosteroids/NSAIDS/Steroids:

Triamcinolone Acetonide, Kenalog, Depo-Mardol, Lidocaine, Marvaine, Toradol, Epinephrine, Bextra, Xylocaine, Isovue.......on and on and now I do not walk hardly anymore.

I am married, no sex whatsoever! I stayed away from my husband for 3 years almost, living at my apartment. I just moved out by Eviction March 2, 2008. I did not pay rent for one year. I applied for disability since 1995. Won ALJ decision September 2006. I appealed the case being opened back to 1995. I wanted it go go back futher. Just appealed it again in 2008.

Okay, I am a simpleton out here needing a HERO to Take A Stand and Advocate for me.

I do not live with my husband. I live at his mother's home so that he comes and takes cares of us at the same time. She is 90 now. Can you imagine this? I have been reduced to a cripple.

I am a prisoner laid to rest by the BIG DRUG COMPANIES MISLEADING ME, IN NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE DISEASES THAT WOULD ATTACK ME IN THE ONLY LIFE THAT I HAVE.

I wonder if my hip bones have collasped. I have terrible bone pain.

I waddle like a duck, side to side with extreme pain until I freeze up and fall, but mostly, I live with a cane at my side when going out and about.

I now need a wheelchair.

From 1980's, 1990's and now all the way to 2008. I have all medicals.

It was not until 2003-2004 that my life took a turn for the worse.

Hips pain, arms pain, shoulders pain, pain in the Thorasic area to the tail bone area, right groin pain/pubic area pain/gentials, stomach sores/cut out, pain on the scalp, calves feel hard in side/stiff at all times, hamstrings are short,open sores have been on my face, arms and neck lasting for 4-6 mths, low back pain....all of me has been injected with the above crap.

I was doing quite well in life until 2004 when this Orthopedic doctor had shot my left shoulder 3 times.

After this June 2004 event above, and by September 2004 I had walking problems, blamed only on Fibromyalgia, DX 1989.

They took one blood test for Polyrheumatica.

I was fed 20 something meds in 2004.

By 2005 I was devestated in life, health and even wanting to be alive. For one full year I lived on the pot, using Lidocaine up the butt 3-4 times a day for the pain.

Now, looking back at this part, no wonder I had extreme skin blisters, hives, rashes, extreme sweating....this Lidocaine for rectum pain was harming me and no one took me off of it. I finally had my pharmacy tell me this was so wrong to be using 134.00 a month for over one year for pain. I stopped!!!! he seemed to say that I was being harmed.

Suddenly, at my clinic, all of my primary doctors began to do trigger point injections weekly, monthly and for 4 years for my Fibromyalgia comlaint. DX in 1989.

Many NSAIDS for one year, 2003-2004.

In 2003 I had a new denture and a few teeth extracted so that I smiled great when got married April 2003.

By August 2003 I was off the State HMO, had housing city of salem voucher for 5 years at my apartment and was planning to move out and be at my husband's home, but...by September 2003 I was already in some medical exams, new meds and was being normal to a point.

By late 2003 to mid-2004 I was feeling strange about my health. I felt as if I was being sucked dry of any fluids, weird to say, but it felt as if...hard to explain.

I was dizzy, vertigo, some balance problems and like itching, sweating and extreme fatigue. I felt like i was melting. My muscles felt like jello. I had no ability to stay upward on my spine.

I did complain to my dentist and doctors that I was feeling numb on my face and gums by may 2003.

After 2 years, leaving room for a possible lawsuit on the dentist/OS, I filed, had one deposition and my lawyer walked.

I had laughing gas for teeth extractions/numbing shots.

I thought that GAS/SHOTS was to be blamed, maybe the tools they used, or the water and I worked this case to the bitter end, sad to say, that a Lawyer Walked On Me.

By 2004 I did not know what hit me with my health issues..dentists/new meds/new marriage/new doctors involved.

I was in a drug stupor, taking almost 30 drugs from this clinic in 2004.

Prescribed and the samples of Vioxx, Mobic, Celebrex and Bextra.

I had so many Toradol shots to my spine and hips at this clinic and thought they had crippled me.

This doctor humiliated me.

Told me that I was a nut.

I now needed long term counseling with all of the body ailments they all told me. My primary doctor told me many times that NONE OF THE SPECIALIST NEEDED OR WANTED TO SEE ME FOR ANYTHING.

Nothing was hardly affecting me when I got married April 2003. I was a knock out!

The Gastro doctor had me on his 3 drugs also, including that daily Lidocaine up my butt. He did the endoscopy and colonscopy, bloodwork and he said I had Atrophic Mucosa.

He was in direct conflict with my Neurologist who did his own work and he claimed that I was Gluten sensitive, a Celiac now. He gave B12 shots and Folic Acid on top of all the other crap that I was taking.

The Hospital did a spinal tap and may tests.

The pain specialist did his epidurals 2 times.

I have had every NSAID they prescribed me.

I had sleeping pills.

I had anti-depressants.

I had Vicodin to Percacets and then they tried to get me on Methadone. One week on that crap was all.

I notice that Depo-Medrol, Marcaine, Lidocaine was mostly used thru out my life.

The pain specialist above that I used in 2006, also shot me with the epidurals 2 times before 2006, and the O.H.S.U. also shot me with all the above when they DX me with Fibromyalgia 1989.

Then many Toradol and Kenalog shots.

I live with daily diarrhea since 2005-2008.

My legs are always red every day with any walking, sleeping, sitting, balance is off, waddling gait.

My feet pain is as if I walk on glass or rocks....sharp pain now for 4 months.

Arachnoiditis fits me well. I have spoken with the doctor/expert that can test me.

I have been searching since early 2004.

I have no way to know who or what to blame.

I even thought that the MRI's Contrast Agents harmed me starting from the past to now.

I left the clinic that stole my life from me and now have a new doctor at Kaiser Permanente.

I am scared of all doctors now.

I have 4-5 meds right now.

Not one doctor or specialist will DX me. I have a thought below...

I fought the medical community WORLD WIDE back in 2002-2003 with the President Dr. Richard Willner, of Retired Association of Physcians and Surgeons. My two other sisters were in this heated debate.

I was told to expect danger at any time after this online 30 page cruel attack by the doctors on my wrongful death of my mother by her doctors/nursing home/hospital.

I proved this case.

The lawyer in Portland, Or. Judy Snyder told me I did extremely well proving this death was murder...but the Medical Consultant who did the summary of this death was hushed up!!! Later on, after another summary by Medical Consultant, she told me that we would be lucky to get $10,000 for a Nusiance Claim. I tried to get one Lawyer before the statues ran, but no luck. I heard that the Elder Abuse Statues ran for 7 years and to try for that. Oh well, I tried.

Joanie K.

My Daughter took Kenalog in 2007 after battling pneumonia. It seemed like a miracle because she actually felt better. Now, we are learning about all the side effects and her lengthy periods...the indention STILL being there...it definitely sounds like it could be related. I'm going to do more research, something has to be done. We trusted her pediatrician...I would never have done this to my child.

I had posted my case on May 17th on this blog--as I noted, I URGE others to report their adverse event to the FDA--just click on this link and complete the form: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/. The FDA is responsible for assuring safety of medications. Therefore, it is imperative that the FDA recognize the adverse effects to provide any credibility to a class action suit. Please consider forwarding your case to the FDA to force them into action and begin addressing these atrocities. Such documented cases and recognition by the FDA will provide leverage for attorneys in pursuit of a class action suit. Also wanted to see if anyone has contacted a lawyer on this issue?

-- By slmgator | Reply | (3) replies | Send Private Mail

I have what looks like Cushing's Syndrome possibly brought on by the 2 injections I have had. I was also hospitalized with viral meningitis. I haven't been able to work or travel in more than a month and I am still home on the couch recovering. Can anyone help us get justice for this? I can't believe the Dr.'s are continuing to use this drug! Mine was given in the epidural space which is not recommended according to the drug label itself!
I have a list of symptoms 2 pages long including the irregular periods. After the second shot, given 4 weeks after the first, I had a 15 day period, and these strange, dark, periods are continuing on and off even today.
If anyone knows about web page design, maybe we can get enough of us together to contact an attorney and change some laws. This CANNOT continue! Enough of us have suffered the effects of this.

I received my first kenalog shot around the 25th of May. I was due to begin my period around the 1st of June. I have always had regular periods. Since this shot, it seem like I was going to start like normal. There were signs of red and brown blood. For around 3-4 days I would bleed very very lightly. Then, now going on for about 3 weeks I am continuing to spot bleed. The blood seems to be old blood, because it is brown. The only thing that has been different to my body is the shot. I am assuming it is from the kenalog shot. My doctor did not tell me that this would occur.

march 17, i was given a kenalog shot. it is now may 15th and I have had a been going through bad bad pain, weakness,cant carry a conversation. Around 21/2 weeks ago had a bad period. I haven't had one for three years. It lasted for 5 days. now I am going through severe PMS. I am post menopausal, now the kenalog messed my body up on my body and mental functions. I had a TIA 6 years ago. I can not take any HRT.. . I have been very dizzy,very weak, cant drive because my motor skills are not right. I taught aerobics for 24 years . so I was very fit. Im now 53 years old, had very little side effects from my TIA. this horrible shot has now has hampered all the hard work I have done to recover from my past illnesses. This shot has put my body into peri-menapose again..

I have a big giant indentation on the left side of my butt Thank God I'm not a bathing suit model or my career would be over.It ticks me off every time I see it in the mirror or touch my caved in butt.No one ever mentioned any side effects.

I also have a giant dent on my left side from kenalog injections I'm not a bathing suit model THANK GOD or my career would be over with my caved in butt it ticks me off every time I see it in the mirror or touch the big giant dent.My doctor never said anything about side effects.

I went to see my PCP in March 25th 2008 because my allergy. My pcp told me she'll give one injection since it's allergy season and it would make me fell better. She didn't tell me what kind of injection it was and I trust her.

The next day I was having panic attacks while I was outside on the street.
I couldn't breath because my heart was beating so fast, and I felt "pacey" all day. I just went home hoping the symptoms go away but it only got worse. I couldn't even walk because I was out of balance, my vision got blur and I had massive headache. I assume it was happening because the injection so I called my PCP, but she told me she didn't do anything different. My PCP had a day off so I went to the ER that afternoon. I had cat scan done in case I had stroke but my cat scan was clear. The ER dr think it's side effect from the shot.
I called my pcp 2 days later after my visitation to the ER but she never returned my call. Somehow, I couldn't trust my pcp I didn't go back to her.
I was hoping the injection fades away and try to manage my body. I start notice I had anxiety and couldn't sleep at night. I had pretty regular period but I had very irregular period following month and that drove me crazy because I had 2 full periods within a month and I had blood spots. I barely had period following month. I notice that I gain so much weight. I always watch what I eat so I never get out of control with my weight but I couldn't fit into my jeans I used wear. I also notice that I get back pain the side I had shot if I seat for long hours which I never had before. Now my legs are swelling ,numb and have tingling sensation. I was really concern so I call my pcp today to find out what kind of steroid she injected me. The medical assistant told me that doctor can't not give the name and he was giving me ridiculous excuses to not to give me the name of the injection . I was so upset and didn't make sense to me. I asked for the dr. and asked my pcp the name of the shot. It was "Kenalog". I googled the name and I found this site. I am really scare and I am upset at my pcp that she never mention what the injection was and never discuss the side effects with me. If I knew about the side effects back then I would never let her give me the shot.
I never signed anything with my pcp. My pcp promise to call me back today. I even left her a message again to call me but haven't heard from her yet.
I believe FDA is responsible for this steroid but doctors are holding great responsible also!

How long dose it takes to get back to normal? I would greatly appreciate for any information!
Dose anyone knows powerful lawyer?

I got a shot of kenalog for seasonal allergies. I told the doctor if there was a possibility of gaining weight from it that I didn't want it. He said it shouldn't make me gain weight, and acted like it wasn't a concern. So I took the shot, and one month later I had gained 20 Pounds! I hadn't changed my diet, and was only drinking slim-fast, and hardly even eating any food. What a bastard of a Doctor! I could not get the pounds off through exercise either. Clearly the shot had made me retain fluids. I got the shot more than 15 years ago, and I still have a weight problem today. I was drop-dead gorgeous before this nightmare!

About 2 years ago, I had an injection of Kenalog in my knee. I was having knee pain and it was diagnosed as a miniscus problem. The doctor decided to see if the Kenalog relieved any pain. 15 minutes after I had the injection, while driving home, I felt warmth in my crotch area, then under my armpits, and then the itching started. I was having an allergic reaction.
By the time I got home, I went into full anaphylactic shock. My daughter called the paramedics and my blood pressure was 50/10.I barely had a pulse. I spent 31 hours in the ER and 5 days in the hospital. This kind of reaction is rare but very real. FYI.
Rindi B, Carlsbad, Ca.

Hey Everyone! I have some of the same side effects as most of you. I got the shot for my allergies on January 15. I literally had a non-stop period. My period would last for two weeks with an average of only 2 days in between the next period. I did not want to get put on birth control, so I kept hoping for my period to regulate itself or for the medicine to leave my system, but none of that ever happened. I went to see my physician on June 3. (That means I was on my period from January to June.)

I explained what happened to him, and he told me that he wanted to try medicine that is NOT birth control. He explained that the Kenalog shot, a steriod, probably interfered with my hormones. In order for a woman's body to function normally, she must have a normal balance of estrogen and progesterone. I had way too much estrogen because I was always on my period, so he put me on a drug called Provera (medroxyprogesterone) for seven days. I am happy to say that the drug worked, and I have been off of my period for SIX days so far! My physician also told me that it may take up to two months for my body to figure itself out and for my period to start again.

I hope this helps someone. Provera worked for me, so maybe it will work for those who do not want to get on birth control!

I have had at least four Kenalog shots over the past three years due to sinus infections. The shot provides great relief and a noticeable improvement within 24-48 hours. I have experienced absolutely no side effects. I am so thankful that something like this is available to patients. I was aware that some patients had experienced deep indentations in their flesh at the site of the injection, but I do not personally know anyone who has had a problem with this type of injection. When I have needed relief from severe sinus problems, I can say with certainty that this has helped me tremendously.

I had a Kenalog injection in November to try to get over bronchitis. About three months later I noticed an indentation on the right side of my butt. I went to the doctors and she said that that can happen and it will probably come back. It is now June 2nd and it is way worse than it was then. I don't know what to do now. I think they should be responsible to fix it. It's disgusting.

I am 56 years old and have gone thru Menopause and have not had a period for 5 years. I just had 2 epidural injections of kenalog for my L4, L5, S1., I just had a period!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The doctors say it's not from the steroid shot. I take a sleep aid pill to help me sleep. Good news is my pain is gone.

I had a Kenalog injection on March 24, 2008. It was given to me for allergy, hay fever problems. I am now experiencing constant leg muscle pain and leg and feet cramping. I truly feel this is from the Kenalog. Can someone tell me how long these injections last in your system? I am miserable and would never get this again.
******

I have had this shot 4 times now for severe seasonal allergies and asthma (1 shot per year). I did have one side effect, heartburn. So I took zantac for the heartburn. Otherwise, I have had immense relief from the allergies/asthma from this shot. I am concerned about what I am reading on this website though, so I will think twice before getting the shot again. The nurse who gave me the shot seems quite experienced and she is the same nurse that has given the shot every year. I did have to sign some forms about the risks of taking the shot.

Until now I had no idea what the dents were on the lower back just above my right or left buttock. I have gotten Kenalog shots on both sides for allergies for the past 10 years! It first appeared on the left side then went away. Now I've got one on the right. It really doesn't bother me since it's covered all the time, even in a swim suit. However, this side effect cannot be good and I will deffinetely not be getting Kenalog shots anymore... but to anyone who is worried about it not going away: it did for me.

A few months ago I had a Kenalog injection into a painful s/i joint. Now I have a huge painful crater at the site of the injection. There is no tissue left between the skin and bone. I have twice as much pain, and it feels cold on the inside and like the skin in pulling.

Wow - I had a great experience with kenalog in suppressing my allergies. They have been unbearable until getting the shot. I sat down with the doctor who went through the list of pros and cons with the drug. He said, and I agree wholeheartedly (I'm sure we all do) that no is more interested in or more responsible for my health than I am, so he said after going through the risks of meds that I should verify it for myself and if I felt comfortable with the shot he would give it. Can you imagine how much better off the world would be if we all took responsibility for ourselves - actually did our own homework? I've seen doctors before who don't really take the time to discuss side effects so I'm glad he did (but then, how many people ever read the drug information that the pharmacist gives out - can't really blame the doctor for that...). Anyways, given that I had severe symptoms that was affecting sleep and very low risk for osteoporosis I got the shot and man do I feel great!

Kenalog-40 I was never told what I was being given in my bottom, just that it would help with seasonal allergies. FDA site "Neurologic-Psychiatric: Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids." FDA More "Neuro-Psychiatric: Convulsions, depression, emotional instability, euphoria, headaches, increased intracranial pressure with papilledema(pseudotumor cerebri) usually following discontinuation of treatment, insomnia, mood swings, neuritis, neuropathy, paresthesia, personality changes, psychic disorders, vertigo. Arachnoiditis, meningitis, paraparesis/paraplegia, and sensory disturbances have occurred after intrathecal administration."
I went to an Urgent Care Clinic for allergies. My skin was crawling every time I left the house so I was told the cause was environmental allergies. The Benadryl wasn't helping. The nurse noticed my skin was patchy and swollen. Another nurse returned to the room and said this shot would help with the reactions. I was not told what it was till it was done and she mumbled the word Kenalog. Three hours later I was anxious and talking irratically. Pressured speech, I could not stop talking. I called Nurse Advice line, then told to call a Pharmacy Help Line, who in turn said to go to the ER but to not drive myself in such a condition. I was talking as if I was on speed or manic. The ER said to go home it was just an anxiety attack. I took 2mg Clonzepam to calm down and sleep. In the morning, the symptoms returned. I called the hospital pharmacy and was told to go in immediately to see my doctor, that it is a steroid and causes psychic reactions. My regular doctor didnt have an opening so I saw a different doctor who wasn't familiar with my normal personality. She said she saw nothing wrong no matter that she couldn't get a word in unless I physically put my hand over my mouth. She sent me to a Nurse/psychiatrist next door to her. He said there was nothing wrong also. I had to keep repeating myself, speeding along, stuttering because I was talking so fast, telling him I was going 100 miles an hour in my head and out my mouth. I thankfully had an appointment with my psychologist a few minutes later in a different part of the hospital. I see her weekly. She immediately saw my change in mood and personality and called the clinic nurse/psychiatrist and told him to prescribe clonzepam. I did some reading about kenalog 40 injections. The clinic doctors didnt have the same list of side effects as their own pharmacy. I should never have been given the shot because I already have an emotional/mood problem and have epilepsy. I have to increase my anti-convulsants for at least two weeks and watch my mood very very closely. Some days I "fly" then "crash" now. This is all new, extreme symptoms of an already existing condition. This Urgent Care Clinic nurse was told all these things by me, repeatedly because of all my allergies to drugs, daily convulsions and counselling I already undergo for PTSD. I was never seen by a doctor that day or counselled. I will never take a steroid again based on the information I now have on its effects on psychiatric and seizure conditions. I am already disabled because of daily seizures and now I have even more daily seizures. These mood swings and seizures will be abnormally high for over 3 weeks I was told by the doctors but the more reading I do the longer I find that the steroid will cause side effects. Epileptics or those with a low seizure thresh hold, anyone with psychiatric conditions, emotional problems such as panic attacks or anxiety, PTSD, depression, Please use caution with kenalog. My friends are very helpful and supportive during this time. They can see the emotional impact the steroids are having on me. They will tell me I am speeding and I say "sorry, its the 'roids talking" Now, I will be watching my butt, too. Its been 7 days since the injection.

I am also a victim of having the Kenalog injection administered over 8 months ago to alleviate poison ivy itching symptoms. Prior to having the injection, I was not informed of any side effects. Not only did the injection not alleviate the symptoms, but has resulted in a discolored and uncomfortable indentation in my left buttock area and psychological anguish because of disfigurement of my body. It is 8 months later and the indent appears to continue to deepen and lengthen. The dermatologist who administered the injection stated that there was nothing I could do to reverse such effects. I reported my case to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Med Watch. I urge others to report their adverse event to the FDA--just click on this link and complete the form: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/. The FDA is responsible for assuring safety of medications. Therefore, it is imperative that the FDA recognize the adverse effects to provide any credibility to a class action suit. Please consider forwarding your case to the FDA to force them into action and begin addressing these atrocities. Such documented cases and recognition by the FDA will provide leverage for attorneys in pursuit of a class action suit.

I got a shot in early January for a severe tonsillitis infection. I was so sick at the time, that I consented to the shot because I thought it would relieve the swelling. The doctor never mentioned any side effects. Unfortunately, the shot did not help at all. Even worse, I noticed a few months after I received the shot, that I had developed a dark indentation at the site of the shot, on my butt cheek. Since then, I have noticed that the dent has gotten bigger and uglier. I'm very upset about it. I went to a dermatologist/cosmetic surgeon, and she advised that I do nothing. She said it would fill in with time - 6 months to a year. We will see.....it doesn't seem to be getting any better.

The worst and most distressing side effect, is this month I had two periods, two weeks apart. I've never been on birth control, and my periods have always been very regular. I had been reading about this side effect a few months ago, and was relieved that at least my periods had not been affected.....well, I was wrong. 4 months after the shot, I've been affected. I had noticed in the past several months, that my periods had gotten shorter, lasting only 2-3 days as opposed to 3-5. They have also gotten lighter, except this most recent irregular period which was a bit heavier.

Along with the dent and irregular periods, I've been experiencing back aches, extreme fatigue and some nauseau - all symptoms which I've never experienced before. I'm a runner and in pretty decent shape and good health. Now I feel like my body has deteriorated due to one small but devastating shot!

I'm very upset and distressed about these side effects. I'm afraid of what other side effects I might not know about yet.

I contacted a lawyer that I found on this website, who is helping a client with these symptoms. I want to join a class action suit. This is unacceptable!

I live in the UK and have suffered terribly with Hayfever since I came back from a Holiday in Greece in 1994 , having tried every single medication possible my doctor tried as a last resort Kenalog.... within 20 hours my eyes were clear, stopped sneezing and was able to breathe!! Fantastic, have never had any side effects with Kenalog however about 4 years ago 2 of Docs in our Practice refused to give it and that year was Horrendous, however I spoke to the third Doc in our practice and he said he had absolutely no problem giving it as it gave so much relief to so many people so started on it again, once again no problems and complete relief from all Hayfever symptoms. However we have now moved from Cleveland to Lincolnshire and my new Doctor wont even discuss it, all he's said is you can have 180mg Telfast , Loratadine or a Nasal Spray all of which have had no effect in the past, absolutely gutted. Does anyone know of anywhere in my area that still prescribe Kenalog or could i obtain it privately?

mitch

HI, i too have to say i am kind of relieved after reading this website that i am not alone with my experiences of the kenalog injection. I was given kenalog injections to treat hayfever, although i wasn't told the name of the injection. They did help and i probably would of continued this year if it wasn't for the side effects.
I was told that to have one a yr was safe, then just before xmas i noticed a dent on my hip, this started getting larger and looked almost like scare tissue, I too was worried i had some sort of flesh eating disorder. The dent is still there and i will never have that injection again. I also have been experience problems with my hips and pain around my coxis,i am not sure if this too is related to the injection. I was told by my doctor who is very good that the kenalog had eaten my fat tissue causing a dent and that it will get better in time.

I agree with everyones comments on here. I have had all of the side effects associated with Kenelog except for the tissue deterioration in the buttocks. However I have found I new side effect that I can only contribute to Kenelog. I am a father or a wonderful little girl who is now 7. I have stayed active my entire life and at 31 I have never been on any other medications other then kenolog for the last 7 years. My wife and I have been trying to have a baby for over two years and have been unable to. After going to the fertility specialist I have found out that I know suffer from azoospermia, which is basically that I do not have any sperm what so ever being created. I will keep you updated as I get more testing done, but I may never be able to conceive a child again because of Kenalog.

My 12 year old son gets poison ivy every summer and about a year ago we took him in for a shot. The shot left a dimple in the upper part of his buttocks. Not a big deal at the time. Now almost a year later this has grown to the size of a half dollar and skin looks pinkish in the center. Does anyone know how they treat this, if at all? Poor kid, you know he won't be wanting to undress in the locker room. We need to do something about this. I also was not warned of any side effects let alone a disfiguring problem.

I had the shot in September 07. I agree that it is scary to read all these posts. about two months ago I noticed a small "dent" on my lower back. I though little of it, thought it was just a dimple from exercising. after months it has persisted and when you push it it feels like there is just nothing there. I googled it and was both relieved and newly concerned to find this. I have an appointment with the people who gave me the shot, but realize there is little they can do, at least they will know. I feel helpless and am scared it will continue to grow...just don't know what to do.

I had a Kenalog injection in two trigger points (one on the right side of my spine in the shoulder blade area and one on the right side of my spine in the lower neck) on March 27, 2008. Prior to the shot, I was suffering from numbness in my right arm and leg, shooting pains and loss of motor skills in my right arm, severe muscle spasms in my back and neck, tightening in my chest and back, severe migraines, night sweats and hot flashes, vertigo/dizziness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and chest pains to name a few. Since the injection, I have noticed an increase of heart palpitations, dizziness, severe migraines, blurry vision, excessive weight gain, severe hot flashes, tiredness, and have had trouble sleeping. In the last two weeks, I have noticed a quarter sized indentation where I received the shot in my shoulder blade area and a baseball sized indentation where I received the shot in my lower neck area. I was not made aware of ANY side effects to this shot and will DEFINITELY not get another one. It is only a month later and I have not felt any improvement in my symptoms that I had before or after the shot. I received the shot, as my doctor felt it would help with what they think is a spazzed muscle in my back shoulder blade area near the spine. The doctor who gave me the shot stated if it didn't help, they would try giving me a cervical epidural, which has its own set of scary risks! I am beginning to think I will have to live with my symptoms for the rest of my life!

I had a huge allergic reaction from a bee sting so the urgent care Dr. prescribed a Kenalog shot. I thought that if it would reduce my huge arm it sounded good. Well, not so good as others who have had the shot have described. I am so happy to read the side affects of others because I was starting to think that there was something serious was going on with me. I started mt period after a week after my previous one and have had this period for seven days. I usually only have five day periods and have been very regular. I called my obgyn and they said that the pharmacist stated that this is not a side affect of Kenalog. This is obviously not true and the medical professionals should be aware of this awful side affect. I have also had a dull headache for a week which has also worried me. I guess I will try to wait it out. How long does this crazy shot stay in your system?

It is scary to read everyone's posts on this drug. I also had two shots of Kenalog within the past 3 months for a problem in my cervical spine. I had mild side effects from the first shot, but since the second one, the side effects have gotten more severe. I've gained 15 lbs (and I've been on a strict diet so there's no reason to have gained that weight). Also, after the second shot I had absolutely excruciating joint pain in my knees and ankles, my face is puffy, I have a hump on my back in between my shoulders, my resting heart rate is up at about 108, and I have random stretch marks on my thighs. I believe that all of these side effects are from the Kenalog because I've always been very healthy and in excellent shape and have never had health problems until now. My dr. did all kinds of blood tests and an EKG and everything came back normal, which also tells me the problems are from the drug. This shot was the biggest mistake of my life! My dr. is still insisting that my problems aren't from the shot and he wanted to do a third injection. I said ABSOLUTELY NO! I went and got a second opinion, and my new dr. said that all of these side effects are from the massive amounts of Kenalog that was pumped into my spine and I'm on a new treatment plan. I am against these types of injections. It has caused me more harm then good.

I have severe allergies and have tried many different allergy medications, but none seemed to work. My doctor decided to give me the shot. At first I was getting the shot every 2-3 months. I started hearing bad things about the shot such that it makes your bones weak and brittle. I was hesitant about getting the shot again so I waited for almost a year before getting my last shot. I was suffering with so much with my allergies that I decided to try the shot again. When I was at the doctor's office the last time, I asked for the shot and this time he told me about the side effects and said that he could only give it to me no more than 2 times per year. He didn't make it seem like it was a very bad drug. He calmly said that it's not good to get too much of it, but in my case, I can get it 2 times per year. Due to my allergy symptoms being unbearable, I decided to get the shot. Now I have bad joint problems on my knees and my wrists. I can no longer wear high heel shoes or type as much as before. I also have insomnia, which even with sleeping medication it still does not help 100%. I have had these symptoms before with my previous shots, but did not know what have caused it. Now I know the source of my continuing pain problems. I was hoping to find a solution to my allergy problem, but now have inherited more problems from this drug.

I too, have been having weird symptoms over the last several months and just connected it all with having a Kenalog shot 7 months ago. In October 2007, two months after my injection, I developed severe anxiety and panic attacks. I thought it was related to perimenopause. Then, in January, I started having lots of muscle and joint pain all over my legs and hips. I've been a healthy and active person, so this was very unusual. I saw an orthopeadic surgeon who diagnosed me with a strained rotator cuff and bursitis on my hips. Now, just two weeks ago, I woke up with a large indentation on my left glut. Right where the Kenalog injection was given. My doctor had no clue what it was and said she might refer me to a Plastic Surgeon. I am SO relieve to find this board. It all clicked when I read everyone's postings. Now I just want to know if it will get worse or eventually go away. I did find some interesting information about the drug. BTW, the nurse or doctor NEVER said anything about side effects before giving my the injection. I am seriously going to pursue a law suit, so we can get this terrible drug OFF the market and no one else has to endure this disfiguring problem. If ENOUGH of us join together in a law suit, it might be worth suing the drug manufacturer. But we have to somehow get organized. Anyone intersted in pursuing this?

Here are some facts about the drug I found online.

Kenalog is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a medical history which includes skin infection, tuberculosis of the skin, chicken pox, herpes, cold sores, sunburned or wind burned skin, chapped skin, open sores, diabetes, or a stomach ulcer may not be able to take Kenalog or may require careful monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with this medication, depending on the condition and the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated Kenalog as a pregnancy risk category C. This medication has been known to cause harm or birth defects in unborn babies. It has yet to be determined whether or not Kenalog passes through the mother’s breast milk and affects a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to women who are pregnant, nursing, or have a high likelihood of becoming pregnant.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Kenalog, some of which are severe. A patient who is experience a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency treatment. An allergic reaction will present with symptoms which may include facial swelling, such as swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require immediate emergency medical treatment include symptoms such as insomnia, blurry vision, mood changes, halo vision, fatigue, weight gain, facial puffiness, or irregular heart rate.

I have a herniated disc L5S1. I had my first of six injections in September of 2006. for three months I had problems with my periods. After my third shot my husband and I decided to start trying to get pregnant. We wanted to try earlier but my back pain stopped us from trying. Ever since I received the first shot I have had problems with fertility. I do not get the cervical mucas anymore. This mucas keeps the sperm alive and helps them travel to the egg. I also had an ectopic pregnancy a year ago in April of 2007. I know that Kenalog has had something to do with both of these issues. I have been trying to get pregnant again for about 9 months with no sucess. My husband has been checked out so we know that it is not him. I have a son so I know that everything was fine before these shots. When I talk to my doctor about my problems they tell me it is not the Kenalog because it does not stay in your system for that long. I say that this is a steriod and you always here how bad they are and the horrible side effects. I know that this stuff is the reason that I cannot get pregnant and it is probably what caused the ectopic pregnancy that almost killed me.

I received a shot on the 21st of march and was told by my dr that the side effects were minimal and I have now been on my period for 18 days straight called my dr and they said thats not normal call your ob dr. Now that I have found this web site I see that I am not the only one who has had this problem. I have always thought it was a dr responsibility to worn you about side effects like this but I guess NOT. And to top it all off the shot didn't even work for me I am stili in alot of pain in my back. THIS SUCKS

I received a Kenalog shot 2 weeks ago for the inflammation of a slight tear in my right rotator cuff. About 5 days ago, my face broke out in an oily, inflamed, painful acne. This happened once before when Kenalog was given to me for severe allergy symptoms. I am not interested in any lawsuit action, but will think twice before allowing another injection for any reason. The reduced pain seemed worth it, but I have to wonder what the acne response is indicating.

I have had shots in my scalp for loss of hair and swelling; the swelling went down and my hair has stopped shedding like it was. The side effects I am now having twitching in my eyes and now my cycle is late and i'm never late, only when I was pregnant. This will be the last time I have those shots in my scalp. I really hope all side effects that I have reverse. I'm going crazy with the pain in my side and swollen glands, I saw that was a side effect as well. It has it s benefits as with any medications.

My 17 yr.old has suffered from asthma since she was little, she received a kenolog injection around her waist and has a huge indentation. She is very active in sports and is very upset about this. Has someone ever sued and won? The discoloration of her skin, pulling sensation as she bends or reaches is very disturbing. I hope she does not develop any other problems.

My daughter is 14, a beautiful tall thin cheerleader who is very athletic. She, too, has a huge dent in her right hip -- and it appears to be getting bigger, even after a year since the Kenalog injection. Besides the embarrassment of what she feels is a disfigurement, she is now experiencing problems with the muscles in her hip area. If anyone has the name of a good attorney, please let me know.

I myself had this shot kenalog and marvin about 8months ago, got it for chronic back pain, i suffered from herniated disc, degenarate spine, it's no fun getting old. i'm 34 yrs old mother of 16 & 6. i was diagnosed may 2007, from, insomnia, migraine, stiffness of back, sciatica symptoms, depression.
i thought the shots was the answer. it really didn't do nothing for me, but i remember the shot was painful, and they bruised a little, but there was one on my tailbone that bruised last night months, didn't think of anything bad, until i started to notice the white, dented looks like tunnel going in, it sore around it, and it's getting bigger and bigger. Yeah so many things going through my head, is this cancer, some kind bone desease. I see my Dr. next week, and i will ask him for MRI and what can he do to fix this problem...if anyone has any info or in LA< CA.pls forward to me. its good to know i'm no alone and going crazy... thanks