HYDROCORTISONE (Rectal)

Brand & Generic Names

Anucort	Cortiment-40
Anusol-H.C.	Dermolate
Cort-Dome	Hemril-HC
Cort-Dome High Potency	Proctocort
Corticaine	Rectocort
Cortiment-10

Basic Information

• Habit forming? No
• Prescription needed? Yes
• Available as generic? No
• Drug class: Anti-inflammatory, steroidal (rectal); anesthetic (rectal)

Uses

In or around the rectum to relieve swelling, itching and pain for hemorrhoids (piles) and other rectal conditions. Frequently used after hemorrhoid surgery.

Dosage & Usage Information

How to use:
Follow instructions in package.
Rectal cream or ointment--Apply to surface of rectum with fingers. Insert applicator into rectum no farther than halfway and apply inside. Wash applicator with warm soapy water or discard.
Suppository--Remove wrapper and moisten with water. Lie on side. Push blunt end of suppository into rectum with finger. If suppository is too soft, run cold water over it or put in refrigerator for 15 to 45 minutes before using.
Aerosol foam--Read patient instructions. Don't insert into rectum. Use the special applicator and wash carefully after using.

When to use:
Follow instructions in package or when needed.

If you forget a dose:
Use as soon as you remember.

What drug does:
Reduces inflammation.
Relieves pain and itching.

Time lapse before drug works:
5 to 15 minutes.

Don't use with:
Other rectal medicines without consulting your doctor.

Overdose

SYMPTOMS:
None expected.

WHAT TO DO:

Not intended for internal use. If child accidentally swallows, call poison-control center.

Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects

Common:

None expected.

Infrequent:

• Nervousness, trembling, hives, rash, itch, inflammation or tenderness not present before application, slow heartbeat.
• Dizziness, blurred vision, swollen feet.

Rare:

• Blood in urine.
• Increased or painful urination.

Warnings & Precautions

Don't use if:
You are allergic to any topical anesthetic.

Before you start, consult your doctor:

• If you have skin infection at site of treatment.
• If you have had severe or extensive skin disorders such as eczema or psoriasis.
• If you have bleeding hemorrhoids.

Over age 60:
Adverse reactions and side effects may be more frequent and severe than in younger persons.

Pregnancy:
No proven harm to unborn child. Avoid if possible. Consult doctor.

Breast-feeding:
No problems expected. Consult doctor.

Infants & children:
Don't use without careful medical supervision. Too much may be absorbed into the blood stream and affect growth.

Prolonged use:
Possible excess absorption. Don't use longer than 3 days for any one problem.

Skin & sunlight:
No problems expected.

Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
No problems expected.

Discontinuing:
May be unnecessary to finish medicine. Follow doctor's instructions.

Others:

• Report any rectal bleeding to your doctor.
• Keep cool, but don't freeze.

Possible Interaction with Other Drugs

GENERIC NAME	COMBINED EFFECT
------------------------	-----------------------
Sulfa drugs*	Decreased anti-infective effect of
	sulfa drugs.

Possible Interaction with Other Substances

INTERACTS WITH	COMBINED EFFECT
---------------	---------------
Alcohol:	None expected.
Beverages:	None expected.
Cocaine:	Possible nervous system toxicity.
	Avoid.
Foods:	None expected.
Marijuana:	None expected.
Tobacco:	None expected.