Entocort Enema (Budesonide)

Description

Indications

Budesonide enema is prescribed to alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease, specifically ulcerative colitis. While budesonide doesn’t provide a cure for this condition, it can effectively alleviate discomforts like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools. Administering this medication as an enema enables it to directly target the bowel and rectum. Budesonide functions as a corticosteroid, working to reduce inflammation by diminishing swelling.

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely when using this medication as an enema in the rectum, typically once daily in the evening before bedtime.

Ensure you dissolve the tablet in the provided enema solution, shaking the mixture well for at least 10 seconds until it turns pale yellow. Only prepare and use the solution right before administration; avoid advance preparation. Refrain from swallowing the tablet.

For optimal effectiveness, administer the enema after a bowel movement. Lie on your left side with your left knee bent toward your chest. Gently insert the nozzle into the rectum, then gently but firmly squeeze the bottle to deliver the entire dose into the rectum. Straighten your leg, roll onto your stomach, and maintain this position for at least 5 minutes to retain the medicine in your rectum overnight or for as long as possible.

Dosage and duration of treatment are determined by your medical condition and response to therapy.

Consistently use this medication to maximize its benefits. To aid in remembering, administer it at the same time daily.

Avoid increasing your dose or using the drug more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed. Doing so won’t expedite improvement and may heighten the risk of side effects.

Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor. Abrupt cessation may exacerbate certain conditions. You might also experience symptoms like extreme fatigue, muscle or joint pain, headaches, weakness, or nausea upon discontinuation. To mitigate these symptoms, your doctor may gradually decrease your dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance. Promptly report any new or worsening symptoms.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• diarrhea
• feelings of unease
• gas in the stomach or bowels
• itching
• nausea
• skin rash
• sleepiness
• trouble sleeping

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• darkening of the skin
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• fainting
• loss of appetite
• mental depression
• nausea
• skin rash
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

Caution

• Prior to using budesonide, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, particularly if you have a history of liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, stomach or intestinal ulcers, diverticulitis, mental or mood disorders, glaucoma, cataracts, current or past infections, or thyroid issues.
• Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications can occasionally render your body less responsive to physical stress. Prior to undergoing surgery, emergency treatment, or in the event of serious illness or injury, inform your doctor or dentist if you are currently using or have recently used this medication.
• Budesonide may obscure signs of infection, potentially increasing your susceptibility to infections or exacerbating existing ones. Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious infections (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more information.
• Inform your healthcare provider before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations while using budesonide. Steer clear of contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines (such as the nasal flu vaccine).
• Elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the side effects of this medication, including bone loss or pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and alterations in mental or mood state (like confusion).
• Although unlikely, long-term use of this medication in children may temporarily impede growth. Ensure regular check-ups with the doctor to monitor your child’s height.
• During pregnancy, only use this medication when absolutely necessary, after discussing the risks and benefits with your doctor. Newborns born to mothers who have used corticosteroids for an extended period may develop hormone-related issues. Notify your doctor immediately if your newborn experiences symptoms such as persistent nausea or vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness.
• This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Entocort Enema is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Entocort Enema enema:
  • 0.02 mg / mL

FAQ

When will Entocort Enema begin to work?

Your symptoms will usually start to improve within 1 or 2 weeks. It can take 2 to 4 weeks for the medicine to reach its full effect.

Can Entocort Enema cause constipation?

No, Entocort Enema doesn’t typically cause constipation as a side effect.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/uceris/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/budesonide-rectal-foam-and-enemas/common-questions-about-budesonide-rectal-foam-and-enemas/
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-163490/budesonide-rectal/details
4. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/entocort-enema#adverseeffects
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/budesonide-rectal-route/side-effects/drg-20311428
6. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/budesonide-enema-rectal