What is Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) used for?

Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) is a rectal corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory conditions affecting the rectal area. The medication operates by preventing the action of enzymes in the body that cause inflammation in the body to reduce the swelling, pain, and irritation associated with these conditions. It is commonly prescribed to treat ulcerative colitis, proctosigmoiditis, or proctitis. Your doctor may also recommend its use for the treatment of other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate)?

Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) should be used according to your doctor`s instructions and those included with the packaging to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. The normal frequency of administration is two to four applications of the prescribed dosage. Your individual dosage and frequency of application will be based on your age, weight, current health condition, the condition being treated, and the severity of your symptoms. Always clean the applicator using soap and warm water before each usage to prevent contamination. Collect the prescribed amount of medication into the applicator, insert it into the anus, and gently press down on the applicator to dispense the medication. Wash your hands using soap and water after each application to prevent the medicine from contacting any other mucous membranes or areas not being treated. Ask your doctor any questions you have about using the medicine to ensure the correct administration.

What are the side effects of Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate)?

Some patients using Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) may experience side effects including:

• Mild rectal burning or stinging
• Acne
• Increased sweating
• Increased growth of body or facial hair
• Disturbed menstrual periods

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention are severe rectal pain, intense stomach pain, bleeding from the rectum, sudden headaches, difficulty breathing, muscle fatigue, unusual swelling of the extremities, or seizures. Inform your doctor as soon as you experience any worrying symptoms to make sure the necessary changes are made to your application frequency or dosage to stop further health problems from occurring.

Please Note

Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) should not be used to treat patients who have perforation of the bowel, an obstruction of the bowel, fistulas, a widespread infection, or who have recently had an intestinal anastomosis. Also disclose if you have heart failure, a peptic ulcer, myasthenia gravis, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hypertension, glaucoma, a history of tuberculosis, diverticulitis, thromboembolism, severe ulcerative colitis, a family history of mental illness, a history of tuberculosis, liver failure, or decreased kidney function. These conditions may cause unexpected health problems requiring special adjustments to your treatment.

Strictly use Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) as prescribed and follow all instructions provided by your doctor. Safe, suitable, and optimum dosage can vary and is dependent on the patient`s health and medical history, as well as the condition you are treating.

Colifoam (Hydrocortisone Acetate) may not be safe or suitable for all patients. Always ensure your doctor is informed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, using any other type of medication (including non-prescription medicine, vitamins, and supplements), as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or pre-existing medication conditions.

Seek immediate medical attention or proceed to your nearest accident and emergency department if you suffer a hypersensitive or allergic reaction. Symptoms usually present during a reaction of this nature include difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the limbs or face, tight chest, hives, and skin rashes.