What is Cortenema? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Cortenema overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Cortenema, Colocort

Generic Names:

  • Hydrocortisone

Uses:

  • Treats ulcerative colitis. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Anti-Inflammatory, Gastrointestinal Agent

Forms:

  • Enema

How it’s taken:

  • Into the rectum

What is Cortenema used for?

What form(s) does Cortenema come in?

  • Enema

What are common Cortenema dosages?

  • Bottle 60ML of 100MG/60ML

Cortenema images - What does Cortenema look like?

  • Cortenema
    60ml of 100mg/60ml bottle

How to take Cortenema

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • Shake the bottle well before use.

  • Remove the cover from the applicator tip of the bottle.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Insert the applicator tip into your rectum about an inch. Gently squeeze the bottom of the bottle to release the enema.

  • Remain lying down for at least 30 minutes. You may need to hold the liquid in your rectum for several minutes or hours. This may be difficult or feel uncomfortable. It should become easier to do as you continue to use the medicine.

  • After using the medicine, remove the applicator tip from the rectum and throw the bottle away.

  • Missed dose:Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose:Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Remove the cover from the applicator tip of the bottle.

  • After using the medicine, remove the applicator tip from the rectum and throw the bottle away.

  • Remain lying down for at least 30 minutes. You may need to hold the liquid in your rectum for several minutes or hours. This may be difficult or feel uncomfortable. It should become easier to do as you continue to use the medicine.

  • Shake the bottle well before use.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • Rectal routeLie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Insert the applicator tip into your rectum about an inch. Gently squeeze the bottom of the bottle to release the enema.

What to do if you miss a dose of Cortenema

Cortenema contraindications - Who shouldn't take Cortenema?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone, or if you have a fungus infection.

Cortenema warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, cirrhosis, osteoporosis, thyroid problems, or myasthenia gravis. Tell your doctor if you have digestive problems, including ulcer or diverticulitis.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Cataracts or glaucomaHigh blood pressureIncreased risk for osteoporosisAdrenal gland problems

  • This medicine may cause you to get infections more easily. Tell your doctor if you have any type of infection before you start treatment. Avoid people who are sick or have infections. If you are exposed to chickenpox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • This medicine may delay growth in children. If you think your child is not growing properly while using this medicine, talk with your doctor.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Cortenema interactions & what to avoid when taking Cortenema

  • Some medicines and foods can affect how hydrocortisone works. Tell you doctor if you are also using an NSAID, including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib.

  • This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

  • This medicine may cause you to get infections more easily. Tell your doctor if you have any type of infection before you start treatment. Avoid people who are sick or have infections. If you are exposed to chickenpox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • This medicine may delay growth in children. If you think your child is not growing properly while using this medicine, talk with your doctor.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Cortenema side effects - How does Cortenema make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Dark freckles, skin color changes, coldness, weakness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, weight loss

  • Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting, uneven heartbeat

  • Severe rectal pain or bleeding

  • Depression, mood swings, trouble sleeping, usual thoughts, feelings, or behavior

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Rectal irritation or burning

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