About rectal prednisolone preparations

In inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, patches of inflammation develop in the wall of parts of your gut (gastrointestinal tract). If these patches are confined to the lower parts of your bowel, it may be helpful during flare-ups for you to be treated with rectal prednisolone. This means giving prednisolone into your back passage as an enema or suppository.

Before using rectal prednisolone

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using prednisolone it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you think there may be any blockage in your bowel, or if there is any irritation around your back passage.
• If you currently have an infection, or if you have ever had tuberculosis (TB).
• If you, or a close member of your family, have ever had depression or any other mental health problem.
• If you have any of the following: osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma (increased pressure in your eyes), epilepsy, hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), or a stomach ulcer.
• If you have high blood pressure, or a problem with your heart such as heart failure.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any medicine. This is particularly important if you have had a bad reaction to a steroid medicine in the past.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription.

How to use rectal prednisolone

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific preparation you have been given, and a full list of possible side-effects from using it. It will also give you a step-by-step guide on how to use it.
• Follow the directions you have been given by your doctor about how much to use and when. Your dose will also be on the label of your pack.
• It is usual for a course of treatment to last 2-4 weeks, but your doctor will tell you what is right for you.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.
• If you forget a dose, do not worry, just have the next dose when it is due.
• If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are using a rectal steroid preparation. It is also important that, if you are having any vaccinations, you make sure that the person treating you knows that you are using prednisolone.

Can rectal prednisolone cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store prednisolone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines