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Uceris Coupon - Uceris 2 canisters of foam of 2mg/actuation carton

Uceris

budesonide
Used for Ulcerative Colitis
Used for Ulcerative Colitis

Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is a topical corticosteroid. It's used to treat mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis (UC) in adults. Budesonide (Uceris) is applied rectally with an applicator twice a day for 2 weeks and then once a day for 4 weeks. The most common side effect is low cortisol levels, which might not lead to symptoms but can be detected through blood tests. Other possible side effects of this medication include nausea or trouble sleeping, but these aren't common.

Last reviewed on February 20, 2024
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What is Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?

What is Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam used for?

How Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam works

Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is a topical corticosteroid. It's applied rectally to lower inflammation in the rectum and colon. This can help heal ulcers and ease bloody diarrhea.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsUceris
Drug ClassCorticosteroid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?

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

Other Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Trouble falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
  • Acne
  • Swelling in arms, legs, hands, or feet
  • Fever
  • Dizziness
  • Mood changes
  • Itching
  • Rash

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Bruising easily

chills

colds

cough

diarrhea

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache

hoarseness

joint pain

loss of appetite

muscle aches and pains

nausea

runny nose

shivering

sneezing

sore throat

sweating

trouble sleeping

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

Less common

Bladder pain

bleeding after defecation

blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

burning feeling while urinating

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

changes in vision

chest pain

cough producing mucus

decreased urine

diarrhea

difficult or labored breathing

difficult or painful urination

dizziness

dry mouth

eye pain

fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

feeling of warmth

heartburn

increase in body movements

increased thirst

increased urge to urinate during the night

irregular heartbeat

lower back or side pain

mood changes

nervousness

pain or discomfort in the chest, upper stomach, or throat

pinpoint red or purple spots on the skin

pounding in the ears

rectal bleeding

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

seizures

severe constipation

shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet

shivering

skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing

slow or fast heartbeat

stomach cramps or pain

sweating

swelling of the legs and feet

swelling or puffiness of the face

tightness in the chest

trouble sleeping

uncomfortable swelling around the anus

upper abdominal or stomach pain

waking to urinate at night

weight gain or loss

Incidence not known

Bulging soft spot on the head of an infant

change in the ability to see colors, especially blue or yellow

difficulty with swallowing

hives, itching, or skin rash

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Belching

blemishes on the skin

heartburn

indigestion

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

pimples

rounded or moon face

stomach discomfort or upset

stuffy nose

Less common

Accumulation of pus

agitation

bloated or full feeling

change in hearing

cracked, dry, or scaly skin

cracks in the skin at the corners of mouth

difficulty having a bowel movement

difficulty with moving

dizziness or lightheadedness

ear drainage

earache or pain in the ear

excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

hair loss or thinning of the hair

increased appetite

increased hair growth, especially on the face

lack or loss of strength

loss of memory

muscle stiffness

nervousness

pain, swelling, or redness in the joints

passing gas

pressure in the stomach

problems with memory

redness, swelling, or soreness of the tongue

sensation of spinning

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

soreness or redness around the fingernails and toenails

swelling of the abdominal or stomach area

swollen joints

uterine bleeding between menstrual periods

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

thumbs-up

Pros

Can lead to remission of UC

Less side effects than oral steroids

Kit comes with convenient single-use applicators and disposal bags

thumbs-down

Cons

Can be difficult to use

The entire treatment course is 6 weeks

Can cause nausea and other bothersome side effects related to low cortisol levels

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

pharmacist
  • Only use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam foam into your rectum. Never use it in or on any other part of your body, such as your mouth.

    • Don't use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam right before or while preparing for a colonoscopy because it might affect your colonoscopy results. If you have an upcoming colonoscopy, let your healthcare provider know. Once your procedure is over, don't start using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam again without asking your provider.

      • Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam contains chemicals (e.g., n-butane, isobutane, and propane) that help the medication come out of the can, but they can easily catch on fire. Avoid using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam around fire or open flames, and don't smoke during or right after using the medication. In the event of a fire, call for emergency help right away.

        How to use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam:

        • Make sure you know how to use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam to avoid hurting yourself or accidentally wasting the medication. Read the instructions for use and ask your gastroenterologist or pharmacist if you have any questions.

          • Before using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam try to use the bathroom to have a bowel movement. Doing so after your dose can cause you to lose some medication. After using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam in the evening at bedtime, avoid having a bowel movement until the next morning.

            • Before using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, remove the safety tab from the pump. Remove 1 applicator from the tray and attach it to the nozzle of the can. Then, line up the notch underneath the pump with the nozzle.

              • Warm up the budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam spray canister in your hands by holding it. Then, shake it forcefully for 10 to 15 seconds.

                • You can apply budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam standing, sitting, or while lying down. One way recommended by the manufacturer is to put one foot on the ground and raise your other foot onto a hard surface, such as a chair, stool, or bench.

                  • To use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, place your pointer finger on top of the pump and turn the can upside down. The can won't work properly if it's upright. Put the applicator inside the rectum and insert it as far as it feels comfortable. Then, use your finger to push down on the pump 1 time and hold it for 2 seconds to release the foam. Make sure you only press down 1 time to avoid receiving too much medication.

                    • After giving yourself a dose of budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, continue holding the applicator in place for at least 10 to 15 seconds. This make sure the medication reaches all areas of the rectum. When you remove the applicator, it's normal for some foam to come out of the applicator or the anus.

                      • To throw away the used budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam applicator, remove the applicator from the can and place it in the disposal bag that comes with your medication. Throw the bag away in a trash can that's out of reach from children or pets. If you don't have disposal bags or if you have further questions about proper disposal of your medication, ask your pharmacist.

                        • After using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, wash your hands with soap and water right away to prevent the medication from coming into contact with other parts of your body.

                          faqs

                          Frequently asked questions about Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

                          How long does it take for budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam to start working?
                          You might notice your UC symptoms improve within 2 weeks of starting budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. But many people need to complete the full course of treatment (6 weeks) to experience more noticeable benefits of the medication, such as healing of ulcers and ease of rectal bleeding. Keep in mind that not everyone experiences the same results with budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. Let your gastroenterologist know if you're concerned with how well budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is working.
                          How long should you take budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?
                          Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is typically used for a total of 6 weeks. It should be used twice per day for the first 2 weeks, then once per day for the remaining 4 weeks. Your gastroenterologist or primary care provider will give you instructions of how to take this medication.
                          Can budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam cause constipation?
                          No, budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam doesn't typically cause constipation as a side effect. Nor is constipation a typical symptom of ulcerative colitis. Let your gastroenterologist or primary care provider know if you're constipated because this could be a sign of a a different stomach problem.
                          Is there a generic for budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?
                          Yes, budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is available as a lower-cost generic.
                          What is the difference between Entocort EC (budesonide) and Uceris (budesonide)?
                          Both Entocort EC and Uceris contain the same active ingredient, budesonide, but they're two completely different medications. Uceris is available as an oral capsule and rectal foam that's used for ulcerative colitis. Entocort EC, on the other hand, is available only as an oral capsule and used for Crohn's disease.
                          Can I drink alcohol while using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?
                          No, it's best to avoid drinking alcohol if you've ulcerative colitis. While alcohol is unlikely to directly interact with budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, it can worsen UC symptoms. If you've been drinking alcohol regularly and it's difficult for you to stop, ask your gastroenterologist what's a safe amount to drink.
                          Can you use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam during pregnancy?
                          If you're pregnant, ask your healthcare team if you can use budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. There isn't enough information to know if budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is safe to use during pregnancy. But animal studies suggest that budesonide caused harm to mothers and their unborn babies. If you're pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam with your healthcare team.
                          Is budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam safe to use while breastfeeding?
                          There isn't enough information to know if using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam rectal foam is safe to use while breastfeeding. Studies of inhaled budesonide suggest that it can pass into breast milk. If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, speak to your provider about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
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                          What are the risks and warnings for Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?

                          Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam 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.

                          risk-warning

                          Changes in cortisol levels

                          • Risk factors: Long-term use of budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

                            Using corticosteroids, like budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, can cause your body to make less of its own stress hormones. This is more likely to happen if you use higher corticosteroid doses or use this type of medication for a long time. If you stop using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam all of a sudden, you might experience symptoms of low stress hormone, such as weakness, nausea, and diarrhea. This problem is usually temporary and your body's natural stress hormone level should return to normal over time. Let your gastroenterologist know if you're experiencing symptoms of low cortisol.

                            risk-warning

                            Withdrawal after switching from a different steroid

                            • Risk factors: Switching from oral corticosteroids to budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

                              Switching to budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam from another steroid, especially a pill, can cause withdrawal symptoms and raise the pressure in your brain. For your safety, don't switch between steroids without the guidance of your healthcare provider. Your provider might slowly lower the dose of your steroid pill and monitor your cortisol levels as you switch over to budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam.

                              Replacing steroid pills with budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam can also cause your allergies or eczema to come back. Steroid pills can control allergy symptoms and eczema, but budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam won't. This is because budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam doesn't work inside your body like a pill. If this concerns you, let your gastroenterologist know.

                              risk-warning

                              Higher risk of infection

                              • Risk factors: Weakened immune system | History of frequent infections | History of tuberculosis (TB) | Current infection | Taking medications that weaken the immune system

                                Using budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam can weaken your immune system and raise your risk of infections. This can potentially worsen any infections you already have, such as a viral or fungal infection. If you have chickenpox, or tuberculosis (TB), or come into contact with someone who has one of these infections, call your gastroenterologist or primary care provider right away because you'll need to be treated with appropriate medications. Try to avoid exposure to people who have these illnesses, since they can be life-threatening if you catch them while you're taking steroids like budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, especially if you haven't had them before. If you have any symptoms of an infection, such as a fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, body aches, tiredness, or any pain, let your provider know.

                                risk-warning

                                Worsening of certain medical conditions

                                • Risk factors: History of high blood pressure | History of diabetes | Osteoporosis | Stomach ulcer | Glaucoma or cataracts

                                  Corticosteroids, such as budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam, can worsen certain medical conditions. It can raise blood pressure and blood sugar. It can also cause bone loss (osteoporosis), stomach ulcers, and eye problems (such as glaucoma or cataracts). If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, or have a family history of any of these conditions, let your gastroenterologist know before starting budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. Your provider might need to change the dose of your medication(s).

                                  dosage

                                  Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam dosage forms

                                  The average cost for 1 carton of 2 canisters of foam of 2mg/actuation of Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam is $798.16 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 17.45% off the average retail price of $966.86.
                                  carton
                                  Carton
                                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                  2 canisters of foam of 2mg/actuation1 carton$798.16$798.16

                                  Typical dosing for Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam

                                  Each pump of budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam contains 2 mg of budesonide.

                                  • Adults: Apply 1 pump into the rectum in the morning and evening (at bedtime) for 2 weeks. Then, apply 1 pump into the rectum once daily at bedtime for 4 more weeks.

                                  interactions

                                  Interactions between Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam and other drugs

                                  Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                                  alternatives

                                  What are alternatives to Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam?

                                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                  Budesonide (Uceris) rectal foam
                                  $65.61 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                                  References

                                  Best studies we found

                                  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About chickenpox.

                                  Margolin, L., et al. (2007). The steroid withdrawal syndrome: A review of the implications, etiology, and treatments. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.

                                  Naganuma, M., et al. (2016). Twice-daily budesonide 2-mg foam induces complete mucosal healing in patients with distal ulcerative colitis. Journal of Crohn's & Colitis.

                                  View All References (3)

                                  Padagis Israel Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (2023). Budesonide- budesonide aerosol, foam [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                  Swanson, G. R., et al. (2010). Pattern of alcohol consumption and its effect on gastrointestinal symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease. Alcohol.

                                  You and Your Hormones. (2019). Cortisol.

                                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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