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Drug

Hydrocortisone Acetate

Pronounced

"HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone"

Uses

This medication is used to treat a certain intestinal problem known as ulcerative colitis of the rectum, also called ulcerative proctitis. It does not cure this condition but it may relieve rectal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools caused by swelling (inflammation). Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids. This medication works by decreasing inflammation directly in the rectum. It is usually used in people who cannot use corticosteroid enemas.

How to Use This Medication

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 or twice daily for 2 to 3 weeks, then every other day. The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce the chance of side effects, your doctor will slowly lower your dose, after you have a positive response to treatment, to the lowest effective dose that controls your symptoms. If you have a worsening of your symptoms, your doctor may need to increase your dose temporarily. Follow your doctor's directions.

Do not insert any part of the 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 tip into the anus, 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. Rinse the container cap and tip to prevent any blockage. Wash your hands after use.

Use this medication regularly as prescribed to get the most benefit from it. It may take 5 to 7 days to notice an improvement.

Do not apply large amounts 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, do not stop using it without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better after 2 to 3 weeks of treatment or if it 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.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.