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Cortenema side affects

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 6/8/2011 12:45 PM (GMT -8)
Hi all,
I'm new here, but not new to UC. Had my 1st flare about 25 years ago, and went 10 years before the next one. Went about 10 years before the next. Had another about 18 months ago and the current flare has been going for almost 3 months now.
Previously, they responded to meds and didn't last more than 2-4 weeks.
This one is a doozey! I'm sure my age has something to do with that, I'm almost 64. Maybe I should have never stop smoking cigars!
Started on Azulfidine about 11-12 weeks ago, got better, but wouldn't stop. Had a colonoscopy a week and a half ago, very inflamed descending colon and rectum. Anyhoo, doc put me on Cortenemas, and it's making me feel pretty bad. Headache, lightheaded and a little dizzy. My symptoms have improved somewhat, but I'm supposed to continue the enemas until my next appointment in mid July.
Anyone else have the same side affects, if so, how long did they last?
Posted 6/8/2011 3:30 PM (GMT -8)
I have heard you can have many of the same side effects from cortenemas that you can have from oral prednisone. I have only used cortifoam when I was at my worst and I was already on prednisone so I didn't notice too many extra side effects. I did have some of those side effects while on predisone.
Posted 6/8/2011 8:03 PM (GMT -8)
It can happen but it's pretty rare since cortenemas don't get into the blood stream the way oral pred does, however some people are super sensitive and may experiance side effects...regardless of age...you should talk with your doc about this. Good luck and feel better soon!
Posted 6/8/2011 11:50 PM (GMT -8)
Hi..welcome to the forum!

I've not used cortenema, but have only used the 5ASA oral/rectal.

Have you used any of the 5ASA mesalamine meds yet?

That's an option for you rather than the steroids.

q
Posted 6/9/2011 4:15 AM (GMT -8)
I agree that you should contact your doctor. You may be sensitive to them. I have used them a lot over the course of 19 years and I have become extremely sensitive to any and all steroids. When I am on them, I do not get used to them but rather the side effects continue until I am off them.
Posted 6/10/2011 5:45 PM (GMT -8)
After one takes Cortenemas nightly for longer than 3 weeks, some of the steroid gets absorbed systemically. It could be affecting your blood pressure-- so best to check with your doctor about light-headedness, dizziness, etc. You could have a fluid imbalance or be low in some essential mineral such as potassium or iron. Be sure to stay well-hydrated at all times. Let us know how you're doing as time/energy permit. / Old Hat (30 yrs with left-sided UC; presently in remission taking brandname Colazal)
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