Hydrocortisone Rectal Foam

Hydrocortisone is a natural corticosteroid produced by the adrenal glands that are located adjacent to the kidneys. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory properties and are used in a wide variety of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of the nose and eyes. There are numerous preparations of corticosteroids including oral tablets, capsules, liquids, topical creams and gels, inhalers and eye drops, as well as injectable and intravenous solutions. Hydrocortisone that is used for rectal conditions is discussed in this article. The FDA approved hydrocortisone in December 1952.

Use this medicine as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Use as you have been told, even if your signs get better.
• This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take hydrocortisone rectal foam by mouth.
• Follow how to use as you have been told by the doctor or read the package insert.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Shake well before use.
• Use an applicator to put in foam. Do not put the foam container right into the rectum.
• This medicine may catch on fire. Do not use near an open flame or while smoking.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Use a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not use 2 doses or extra doses.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Burning.
• Pain.
• Rectal irritation.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

• Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.
• Protect from heat or open flame. Do not puncture or burn even if it seems empty.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Check with your pharmacist about how to throw out unused drugs.

HYDROCORTISONE (hye droe KOR ti sone) is a corticosteroid. It helps to reduce swelling, redness, and itching caused by ulcerative proctitis.

This drug also comes in other forms, including Topical ointment, Topical solution, Rectal suspension, Topical solution, spray, Topical gel, Topical cream, Rectal suppository, Oral tablet, Injectable solution, Topical lotion, ... more

This drug can cause serious side effects. See which side effects you should report to your doctor right away.

Know how to use your medication, and learn what might happen if you miss a dose.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any of these conditions.

Know what to watch for and get tips for reducing your risks while taking this drug.