hydrocortisone topical (Rx, OTC)

HYDROCORTISONE CREAM, OINTMENT- RECTAL

(HYE-droe-KOR-ti-sone)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Anusol-HC, Proctocream-HC, Proctosol HC

USES: This medication is used to treat minor pain, itching, swelling, and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids and other problems of the anal area (e.g., anal fissures, itching). Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces redness, itching, and swelling.

HOW TO USE: Before use, clean the affected area with mild soap and water, rinse well, and pat dry.To apply this product inside the anus, use the applicator tip/cap/nozzle, following all instructions in the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. Fill the applicator with medication from the container as directed. Gently insert the applicator tip just 1/2 to 1 inch (1.5 to 2.5 centimeters) inside the anus and apply in and around the anal opening as directed. Do not insert your finger or any part of the container into the anus, and do not insert the applicator tip/nozzle more than 1/2 to 1 inch (1.5 to 2.5 centimeters) inside the anus. Do not use your finger to apply this medication inside the anus. If you are using a single-use tube and applicator, discard after one use.To apply the product to the outside of the anus only, use your finger to apply a small amount of cream or ointment to the affected area and rub in gently.Do not cover the area with plastic or waterproof bandages unless directed to do so by your doctor. Covering the treated area may increase the absorption of the medication through the skin. This may improve how well the drug works, but it may also increase the risk of side effects.Wash hands immediately after use. Avoid getting the product in your eyes, nose, ears or mouth. If the medication gets in these areas, rinse the area immediately with clean water.This product is usually used 2 to 4 times daily, or after each bowel movement, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or keep using it longer than prescribed by your doctor. If you have been using this medication for a long time or in high doses, do not suddenly stop using it without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens after 1 to 2 weeks.

SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, burning, or itching at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: rectal bleeding, change in skin appearance (e.g., color, thickness), skin redness/tenderness/pus or other signs of infection, signs of serious infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat).Rarely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children and people who use this medication for a long time. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to hydrocortisone; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes, eye problems, infections (especially rectal sores/infections), liver disease, stomach/intestinal problems.Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.Caution is advised when using this drug in children. Do not use this product over a large area or use tight-fitting diapers/plastic pants unless directed by your doctor.Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It should not be used for long periods of time or in large amounts. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: other corticosteroids/immunosuppressants (e.g., prednisone), other rectal products.

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., cortisol levels) may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Information last revised October 2021. Copyright(c) 2021 First Databank, Inc.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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