Has your doctor prescribed you a rectal foam medication for inflammatory bowel disease? Is it called Hydrocortisone Rectal Foam? It's normal to feel a little uncomfortable and confused about how to use it at first. But don't worry, let's talk about this medication in simple terms, the correct way to use it, and everything you need to know.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Hydrocortisone is a steroid medication. It is used as a foam through the rectum to reduce inflammation in your colon and rectum. This medication helps control the pain, swelling, and discomfort caused by this inflammation. It is often sold under the brand name ' Cortifoam '.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine
Before you start using this medicine, you should definitely inform your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions.
| Conditions to report to your doctor |
|---|
| Any current active infection (such as fever, cough, cold) |
| A weakness in the immune system |
| Diabetes |
| Glaucoma or cataracts |
| High blood pressure |
| If you have had a previous heart attack |
| A rectal obstruction, fistula, perforation, or abscess |
| Other stomach or intestinal condition |
| Thyroid disease |
| An allergic reaction to hydrocortisone, other steroids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives |
| If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother |
How exactly do you use this?
This may seem like a strange remedy, but it's actually very easy to use if you use it correctly. Let's take a look at how to do it step by step.
1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after using the medicine.
2. Shake the can: Shake the medicine can well.
3. Prepare the applicator: Use the special applicator that comes with this medicine. Pull the plunger of the applicator all the way out.
4. Fill the foam: Hold the medicine can upright and insert the tip of the applicator into the opening. Now press the cap down firmly on the can. Stop when the foam is filled to the 'fill line' mark on the applicator.
5. Ready to use: Now remove the applicator from the can. Insert the tip of the applicator into the anus. This should be done very gently.
6. Insert the medicine: Now push the plunger of the applicator all the way in and squirt the foam into the rectum.
7. Clean: Remove the applicator, rinse thoroughly with hot water, and set aside.
Important: This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take it by mouth for any reason. Also, do not use more than your doctor tells you to, or stop using it suddenly. Doing so may cause a serious reaction. If you stop taking the medicine, do so as directed by your doctor, gradually reducing the dose.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have overdosed on this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
- See your doctor: See your doctor on scheduled days to check on your condition. If you don't feel any better after using the medicine for a few days, tell your doctor about it.
- Be careful of infections: This medicine may lower your immunity a bit. So stay away from people who are sick (especially those with diseases like measles and chickenpox).
- Blood sugar levels : This medicine may increase your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes , ask your doctor if you need to make any changes to your diet or diabetes medication.
- Rectal problems: If you have blood in your stool, or if you have pain, burning, itching, or blistering in your rectum, inform your doctor immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. Not everyone gets them.
| Side Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Cushing syndrome | Fat deposits around the stomach, neck, and upper back, pink/purple streaks on the skin, skin that is thin and easily bruised, and unwanted hair growth. |
| Increased blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) | Thirst or urination more than usual, unusual weakness, blurred vision. |
| Increased blood pressure | Symptoms such as headache and dizziness. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds, urinary tract infections. |
| Decreased adrenal function | Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness, dizziness. |
| Mental and behavioral changes | Anxiety, restlessness, mental confusion, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, depression. |
| Stomach bleeding | Black or bloody stools, vomiting of coffee grounds. |
| Body swelling | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| General discomfort and fatigue | Discomfort at the site of application. |
| Rectal pain, inflammation, or bleeding | Minor discomfort after using the medicine. |
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with this. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements . Especially if you are taking any of the following medications:
- Painkillers such as aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen )
- Medications for diabetes
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin
- Diuretics (drugs that increase urination)
- Antiepileptic drugs such as Phenobarbital, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin
- Antibiotics and antifungals like Ketoconazole and Erythromycin
- Hormonal medications, including birth control pills
- Drugs like Digoxin, Cyclosporine, Rifampin, Isoniazid
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about everything you take.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children.
- Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius).
- Do not refrigerate.
- Throw away expired medication.
Take-Home Message
- Hydrocortisone rectal foam is a medication that is prescribed for rectal use only. Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
- Use it as directed by your doctor, for the prescribed period of time. Do not stop suddenly.
- Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking.
- If you notice signs of infection, signs of high blood sugar, or unusual rectal pain or bleeding while using the medicine, inform your doctor immediately.
- If a severe side effect occurs (allergy, excessive swelling, mental changes), seek medical advice immediately.
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