CORTIFOAM

Drug Name: CORTIFOAM

CORTIFOAM DESCRIPTION:
HYDROCORTISONE - RECTAL FOAM (hi-dro-KOR-tih-sown)

COMMON CORTIFOAM BRAND NAME(S):
Cortifoam

CORTIFOAM SIDE EFFECTS:
Local pain or irritation may occur. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: rectal bleeding, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat; swelling of the face/feet/hands; fatigue. Very unlikely to occur but report promptly the following side effects: unusual weakness, weight loss; nausea/vomiting; fainting, dizziness, vision changes. CORTIFOAM can slow the growth process in children if used for long periods. Discuss this with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE CORTIFOAM:
CORTIFOAM: CORTIFOAM is administered rectally using the applicator supplied. The usual dose is 1 applicatorful 1 to 2 times per day for 2-3 weeks, then every 2nd day. Shake the canister well before using. Holding the container upright, insert it into the tip of the applicator. The plunger should be drawn up all the way, but not pulled out. Slowly press down on the container cap until foam reaches the fill line of the applicator. Remove the applicator from the container. Holding the applicator by the barrel, gently insert the tip into the rectum. Push the plunger to expel the foam, then withdraw the applicator. Pull apart the applicator parts and clean thoroughly with warm water. Do not insert any part of the canister into the rectum. Use CORTIFOAM as directed. Do not use this more often or continue using it for longer than prescribed.

CORTIFOAM USES:
CORTIFOAM reduces inflammation in the bowel. It is used in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

CORTIFOAM PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have a history of: kidney disease, heart disease, muscle disease, stomach disorders, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, infections, eye problems, any allergies. Though very unlikely, it is possible CORTIFOAM will be absorbed into your bloodstream. This may have undesirable consequences that may require additional corticosteroid treatment. This is especially true for children and for those who have used this for an extended period if they also have serious medical problems such as serious infections, injuries or surgeries. This precaution applies for up to one year after stopping use of this drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor you are using CORTIFOAM prior to receiving any vaccinations. CORTIFOAM should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if CORTIFOAM is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

CORTIFOAM DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially: medication for diabetes, medication for heart disease, medication for blood pressure, steroids. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

CORTIFOAM OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

CORTIFOAM NOTES:
Follow-up appointments are important to ensure effective therapy. Keep all doctor's appointments. Inform all your doctors you use, or have used, CORTIFOAM.

MISSED CORTIFOAM DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

CORTIFOAM STORAGE:
Store the canister in an upright position at room temperature 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C).