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hydrocortisone foam - rectal, Cortifoam

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GENERIC NAME: HYDROCORTISONE FOAM - RECTAL (HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

BRAND NAME(S): Cortifoam

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used with other treatments for certain intestinal problems (ulcerative proctitis). It is generally used in people who cannot use enemas. It does not cure ulcerative proctitis, but it may relieve pain and decrease the amount of diarrhea and bloody stools caused by swelling (inflammation). Hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug (corticosteroid hormone). It works by decreasing the body's natural defense response and decreasing inflammation.

HOW TO USE: Use this product in the rectum, usually once or twice daily for 2-3 weeks, then once daily every other day, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy. When you are taking this medication every other day, it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.Do not insert any part of the medication container into the anus. Use the enclosed applicator to apply this drug. Leave the cap of the container on while using the product. Shake the container well for 5-10 seconds before use and hold upright. Fill the applicator with foam according to the instructions in the package. Gently insert the applicator into the rectum, and gently push the plunger to apply the foam. Remove the applicator.After inserting the foam, pull the applicator apart and wash all parts with warm water.It may take 5 to 7 days to notice improvement from this drug.Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or keep using it for a longer time than prescribed by your doctor. If you have been taking this medication for a long time, do not suddenly stop it without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to reduce symptoms such as extreme tiredness, weakness, weight loss, or nausea.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens after two weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain/discomfort in the rectal area, headache, dizziness, menstrual period changes (e.g., delayed/irregular/absent periods), trouble sleeping, increased sweating, acne, increased appetite, or unusual weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: persistent rectal bleeding, dizziness/fainting, tingling or numbness in the arms/legs, easy bruising/bleeding, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe stomach/abdominal pain, bone/joint pain, fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat, slight to moderate unexpected weight gain, swelling of the ankles/feet, puffy face, unusual hair growth, difficult breathing, mental/mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, agitation), muscle weakness/pain, thinning skin, slow wound healing, increased thirst/urination, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat, frequent/painful urination, eye pain/discharge), vision changes, seizures, back pain, unusual skin growths.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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