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hydrocortisone enema - rectal, Cortenema

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

BRAND NAME(S): Cortenema

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

USES: This medication is used to treat the symptoms of a certain intestinal problem called ulcerative colitis. It is not a cure for this condition, but it is usually used with other treatments to manage this problem. Hydrocortisone enemas help to decrease diarrhea and bloody stools by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the rectum and colon. Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.

HOW TO USE: Read the directions for use that come with this product. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Use this product in the rectum as directed by your doctor, usually once nightly before bedtime. The usual length of treatment is 2 to 3 weeks or until symptoms go away (remission). In some cases, remission may take up to 2 or 3 months. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment.For best results, use after a bowel movement. Shake the bottle thoroughly before use. Lie on your left side with your right knee bent toward the chest. Gently insert the applicator tip into the rectum. Gently but firmly squeeze the bottle so that all of the drug flows into the rectum. Remain lying on your left side for at least 30 minutes. Keep the medicine in your rectum for at least 1 hour and overnight if possible.Use this medication regularly as prescribed to get the most benefit from it. It may take 3 to 5 days to notice an improvement.Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or use it for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects may increase. If you have been using this medication for a long time (more than 3 weeks), do not stop using it without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 2 to 3 weeks of treatment or if it worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain or burning in the rectum, dizziness, menstrual period changes, trouble sleeping, unusual weight gain, increased sweating, acne, or unusual hair growth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell 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 headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems, puffy face, thinning skin, unusual skin growths, slow wound healing, persistent rectal bleeding, unusual bruising/bleeding, black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe stomach/abdominal pain, severe heartburn, bone pain, easily broken bones, mental/mood changes (such as depression, mood swings, agitation), muscle weakness/pain, irregular heartbeat, signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat, painful urination, worsening redness/irritation near the anus), seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: 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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