Cortenema (Hydrocortisone) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Cortenema

Ulcerative Colitis »

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammation of the large intestine (colon). The colon is the part of the digestive system where waste material is stored. The rectum is the end of the colon adjacent to the anus. In patients with ulcerative colitis, ulcers and inflammation of the inner lining of the colon lead to symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding.

Ulcerative colitis is closely related to another condition of inflammation of the intestines called Crohn's disease. Together, they are frequently referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's diseases are chronic conditions that can last years to decades. They affect approximately 500,000 to 2 million people In the United States. Men and women are affected equally. They most commonly begin during adolescence and early adulthood, but they also can begin during childhood and later in life.

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Read the Ulcerative Colitis article »

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Cortenema

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Cortenema Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

HYDROCORTISONE ENEMA - RECTAL

(HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cortenema

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.