Hydrocortisone Rectal Suppository (HYDROCORTISONE SUPPOSITORY - RECTAL)

Instructions

This medicine is for use in the rectum or around the anus. DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Follow the instructions on the package to use this medicine correctly.

Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. However, do not get up right away to wash your hands if you are supposed to lie down for a period of time to give the medicine time to work.

Lie on your left side, with your right knee bent toward your chest. Or, you may kneel on both knees, with your arms folded on the floor with your head resting on your arms.

Unwrap the suppository and moisten it with a few drops of cool water. Insert the pointed end into the anus, and push it all the way in with your finger.

If the suppository becomes soft, you can make it firmer by refrigerating it. You can run it under cold water if the suppository is wrapped.

If your dose is one-half (1/2) suppository, carefully cut it lengthwise using a clean, sharp knife.

If you have hemorrhoids, you may coat the tip of the suppository with a water-soluble lubricant (for example K-Y Jelly) before inserting. Do NOT use Vaseline.

Keep this medicine at room temperature.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.

Do not freeze the medicine.

Cautions

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• red, burning, or itchy skin
• rectal burning or irritation

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding from rectum
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• stomach pain
• dark, tarry stool
• persistent or unusual thirst
• unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
• blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.