The Hydrocortisone 90 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed for insertion into the rectum, where it dissolves or melts to release the active medication. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation, itching, and discomfort. It is commonly used to treat a variety of rectal conditions such as hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel diseases (including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease), and other inflammatory conditions of the anorectal area.

Upon insertion, the suppository's base, typically composed of substances like cocoa butter or a synthetic substitute, melts at body temperature, allowing the hydrocortisone to be released and absorbed by the rectal mucosa. The local application of hydrocortisone provides targeted relief with a reduced risk of systemic side effects compared to oral corticosteroids. However, patients should be aware that systemic absorption can still occur, especially with prolonged use or in higher dosages.

For patients, it is important to follow the administration instructions carefully to ensure the suppository is inserted correctly for maximum efficacy. The area should be cleaned before insertion, and patients should remain still for a few minutes post-insertion to ensure the suppository stays in place. Prescribers should consider the patient's overall medical condition, including any other medications being taken, as hydrocortisone can interact with other drugs. Additionally, long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to complications such as adrenal suppression, so the duration of treatment should be limited to the shortest possible time to manage symptoms effectively.

Hydrocortisone suppositories are generally well-tolerated, but patients should be informed of potential side effects, which may include local irritation, burning, and itching. More serious side effects are rare but can include signs of systemic corticosteroid effects like weight gain, fluid retention, and increased blood pressure. Patients should be instructed to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms or if their condition does not improve.

For prescribers, it is crucial to tailor the treatment regimen to the individual patient's needs and to monitor for any adverse effects throughout the course of therapy. The use of hydrocortisone suppositories should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other therapeutic measures such as dietary changes, increased fiber intake, or the use of other medications for symptom management.

If you have any questions or require further information about the Hydrocortisone 90 mg Rectal Suppository formulation, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is dedicated to providing in-depth knowledge and support to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication used to treat various conditions by reducing inflammation, itching, and swelling. When formulated as a 90 mg rectal suppository, it is primarily intended for local effects in the treatment of conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other inflammatory conditions of the anorectal area. However, even when used locally, there is potential for systemic absorption, which can lead to interactions with other medications.

It is important to consider that systemic absorption of hydrocortisone can be influenced by the condition of the rectal mucosa. Inflamed or damaged mucosa may absorb more medication, increasing the potential for systemic effects and drug interactions. Patients and prescribers should be aware that the use of hydrocortisone, even as a rectal suppository, can interact with other corticosteroids, potentially leading to an increased risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects such as adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, and immunosuppression.

Concomitant use of hydrocortisone with drugs that induce hepatic enzymes, such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, or rifampin, may decrease the efficacy of hydrocortisone due to increased metabolism. Conversely, drugs that inhibit the metabolism of corticosteroids, such as ketoconazole and other CYP3A4 inhibitors, may increase hydrocortisone levels and enhance the potential for systemic corticosteroid side effects.

Patients receiving anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin, should be monitored closely, as corticosteroids may enhance or reduce the anticoagulant effect. Additionally, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in conjunction with hydrocortisone may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including ulceration and bleeding.

Diabetic patients should be advised that systemic absorption of hydrocortisone may affect blood glucose levels, necessitating adjustments in antidiabetic medication dosages. Furthermore, immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids may reduce the efficacy of vaccines and increase the risk of infection with live vaccines.

Patients should be counseled to inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, to assess for potential interactions. It is also important to avoid abrupt discontinuation of the hydrocortisone suppository treatment, as this may lead to adrenal insufficiency, especially if systemic absorption has occurred.

For any questions or concerns regarding the use of hydrocortisone rectal suppositories and potential drug interactions, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is dedicated to providing comprehensive information to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.

The Hydrocortisone 90 mg Rectal Suppository is a solid dosage form designed to be inserted into the rectum, where it dissolves or melts at body temperature. Upon insertion, the suppository base, typically made from substances like cocoa butter or a synthetic substitute, begins to melt due to the warmth of the human body. As the base melts, it releases the active ingredient, hydrocortisone, which is then absorbed through the rectal mucosa.

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, which means it is a synthetic version of the hormones produced by the adrenal glands. It works by decreasing inflammation and suppressing an overactive immune response. This anti-inflammatory effect is achieved through hydrocortisone's ability to inhibit the accumulation of inflammatory cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes, and the release of inflammatory mediators and enzymes that can damage tissues. By doing so, hydrocortisone reduces swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions.

In the context of rectal administration, hydrocortisone suppositories are particularly effective for treating localized conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other inflammatory conditions of the anorectal area. The medication acts directly at the site of inflammation, providing relief from pain, itching, and discomfort. Additionally, because the drug is administered locally, the systemic absorption is lower compared to oral administration, which may reduce the likelihood of systemic side effects.

For patients and prescribers considering the use of Hydrocortisone 90 mg Rectal Suppositories, it is important to understand that while the medication can provide significant relief from symptoms, it should be used as directed by a healthcare professional. Long-term or inappropriate use of corticosteroids can lead to complications such as adrenal suppression or worsening of underlying infections. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the prescribed course of treatment and to monitor for any adverse effects.

If you have any questions about the Hydrocortisone 90 mg Rectal Suppository or its use in treating specific disease states, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide you with the information and support you need to ensure safe and effective treatment for your patients.

Hydrocortisone rectal suppositories are primarily prescribed for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects in the treatment of conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and proctitis. While these are the most common uses due to the localized actions of the medication when applied rectally, hydrocortisone suppositories can also be employed off-label for other inflammatory conditions of the lower bowel, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease affecting the rectum. Moreover, they may be used to manage the local symptoms associated with radiation proctitis, which is inflammation of the rectum resulting from radiation therapy.

Additionally, although less common, practitioners sometimes direct the use of these suppositories for their systemic anti-inflammatory effects. In cases where systemic steroids are indicated but oral administration is compromised, such as with patients experiencing nausea, vomiting, or those with impaired gastrointestinal absorption, rectal suppositories can serve as an alternative. However, it is essential to consider that the systemic absorption of hydrocortisone from suppositories is variable and typically less efficient compared to oral administration.

Another infrequent use of hydrocortisone suppositories, although lacking in substantial evidence, is in the experimental treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndromes, where inflammation may play a role. Since hydrocortisone reduces swelling, itching, and discomfort, there could be potential relief for patients with unexplained pelvic pain when inflammatory processes are suspected.

It is important for prescribers and patients to note that while off-label uses of medications can be beneficial and are often based on clinical experience, they may not always be supported by robust clinical trials. Therefore, such use should be carefully considered and monitored for efficacy and safety. We at Bayview Pharmacy are dedicated to providing tailored pharmaceutical care and are happy to address any questions or concerns regarding the use of hydrocortisone rectal suppositories for various health conditions. We encourage both patients and prescribers to reach out to us for further information or if guidance is needed.