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Drug

Budesonide

Pronounced

"bue-DES-oh-nide"

Uses

This medication is used to treat symptoms of a certain bowel disease (ulcerative colitis). It works by reducing swelling (inflammation). Budesonide belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Budesonide does not cure ulcerative colitis, but it may help relieve symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools. Using this medication as a foam allows it to work directly on the bowel and rectum.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using budesonide and each time you get a refill. Follow the illustrated directions for the proper use of this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Use this medication as a foam in the rectum as directed by your doctor, usually in the morning and evening for the first 2 weeks, then once a day in the evening for the next 4 weeks. It is best to use this medication just before bedtime in the evening.

This medication is flammable. Avoid smoking when applying this medication and immediately afterward. Do not use or store it near heat or open flame.

It is best to use this medication after a bowel movement. You may apply this medication while standing, lying down, or sitting. Do not insert any part of the canister into the anus. Use the enclosed applicator to apply this drug. Follow the instructions for attaching the applicator to the canister. Warm the canister in your hands and shake the canister well for 10 to 15 seconds before use. Hold the canister upside down and gently insert the applicator tip into the anus. Push down on the pump and hold it in that position for 2 seconds to apply the foam. Afterward, release your finger from the pump and continue to hold the applicator in place for 10 to 15 seconds. Then, remove the applicator and throw it away. Wash your hands after use. Keep the medication in your rectum for as long as possible, for example overnight.

If you are regularly taking a different corticosteroid by mouth (such as prednisone), you should not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor. Some conditions (such as asthma, allergies) may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. If you suddenly stop taking the drug, you may also have withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may slowly lower the dose of your old medication after you begin using budesonide. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal. See also Precautions section.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Do not stop using this medication 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 lasts or gets worse.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.