rectal hydrocortisone
Rectal hydrocortisone is a steroid medication used to treat hemorrhoids and relieve inflammation, itching, and discomfort in and around the rectum. It comes as a rectal cream that's available by prescription or over the counter, and a rectal suppository that's available by prescription only. Common side effects include temporary burning and itching.
What is Rectal hydrocortisone?
What is Rectal hydrocortisone used for?
- Hemorrhoids
- Anal itching
- Proctitis (inflammation of the rectum)
- Ulcerative colitis, as an add-on treatment
- Cryptitis (inflammation of glands inside the anus)
How Rectal hydrocortisone works
Rectal hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid. It works by reducing the activity of substances in your body that cause inflammation. This helps relieve redness, itching, and swelling from hemorrhoids and certain conditions that cause inflammation in the rectum.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Anusol HC, Anucort HC, Hemmorex-HC |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Corticosteroid |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | Lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription or over-the-counter |
Side effects of Rectal hydrocortisone
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Burning
- Itching
- Skin irritation
- Dry skin
Less Common Side Effects
- Skin thinning
- Changes in skin color
- Stretch marks
- Acne-like bumps
- Hair growth
The following Rectal hydrocortisone side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
- Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
- Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
- Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
- Unexpected hair growth at application site
Pros and cons of Rectal hydrocortisone
Pros
- Works directly in the area to relieve rectal symptoms
- Comes as cream or suppositories
- Available OTC or by prescription
Cons
- Need to use multiple times a day
- Can cause burning or irritation
- Suppositories can be uncomfortable to insert
Pharmacist tips for Rectal hydrocortisone
General tips
- Rectal hydrocortisone comes in different forms and strengths, including creams and suppositories. Some products are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. Ask your care team which option is best for your symptoms.
- Rectal hydrocortisone cream and suppositories are used differently and might treat different symptoms. Don't switch between them without checking with your care team.
- Use rectal hydrocortisone only for as long as your healthcare professional recommends. Using it too often or for too long can cause skin thinning and other steroid-related side effects.
- Tell your care team if you have ongoing rectal bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that don't improve while using rectal hydrocortisone. You might need an exam to find out what's causing your symptoms.
- Pregnancy: There isn't enough research to know if rectal hydrocortisone is safe during pregnancy. Animal studies suggest that high doses of steroids might harm an unborn baby. Talk to your OB-GYN about safe ways to treat hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
How to use rectal hydrocortisone suppositories
- Prepare: Wash your hands before and after inserting the suppository. Carefully remove the wrapper from one suppository, and avoid holding it too long because it can melt.
- Insert: Lie on your left side with your knees bent, then gently insert the rectal hydrocortisone suppository into your rectum, pointed end first. Stay lying down for about 5 minutes to help keep it in place.
- The suppository might leak and stain your underwear, so consider wearing a panty liner.
How to use rectal hydrocortisone cream
- Apply: Wash your hands well with soap and water before and after using the cream. Apply a thin layer to the affected area around your anus, or use it inside the rectum if your prescriber recommends it.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing over areas treated with the cream since this can increase how much medication your body absorbs.
Risks and warnings for Rectal hydrocortisone
Rectal hydrocortisone can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Adrenal gland problems and other steroid effects
- Risk factors: Using rectal hydrocortisone for a long time | Using more rectal hydrocortisone than recommended | Covering applied area with a bandage | Young children
Rectal hydrocortisone can be absorbed through your tissue or skin and affect how your body makes natural steroid hormones. Using too much for too long can cause adrenal gland suppression, Cushing's syndrome, or high blood sugar. Contact your healthcare professional if you develop unusual weight gain, severe tiredness, weakness, or increased thirst.
Worsening infections
- Risk factor: Using rectal hydrocortisone for a long time
Rectal hydrocortisone lowers inflammation but doesn't treat bacterial or fungal infections. It can hide signs of an infection or make an existing infection worse. If you have an infection, your care team might prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal medication or recommend stopping treatment. Tell your care team if you notice redness, swelling, pain, pus, or if your symptoms don't improve after 7 days of treatment. These could be signs of an infection.
Skin problems
- Risk factors: Using rectal hydrocortisone for a long time | Using more rectal hydrocortisone than recommended
Rectal hydrocortisone can cause burning, itching, dryness, or skin thinning where you apply it. These side effects are more likely with long-term use or if you use more than recommended. Stop using the medication and contact your care team if you develop severe irritation or your symptoms get worse.
Rectal hydrocortisone dosage
Tube of cream| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30g of 2.5% | 1 tube | $18.83 | $18.83 |
How much does Rectal hydrocortisone cost?
What are alternatives to Rectal hydrocortisone?
Rectal hydrocortisone images
