Hydrocortisone Enema
Cortenema is a rectal hydrocortisone enema used to treat inflammatory conditions of the lower colon and rectum, primarily ulcerative colitis. It delivers the corticosteroid medication directly to the affected area to reduce inflammation and associated symptoms such as bleeding, urgency, and diarrhea.
Cortenema is a prescription corticosteroid enema that reduces inflammation in the colon for ulcerative colitis affecting the rectum and sigmoid colon.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202639
- Generic
- Cortenema
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats distal ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel diseases affecting the rectum and sigmoid colon, and associated symptoms including rectal bleeding, diarrhea, and tenesmus.
Delivers hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, directly to the inflamed colonic lining where it reduces inflammation by suppressing immune responses and decreasing vascular permeability.
For rectal use only; follow administration instructions carefully. May cause local side effects such as burning or irritation. Long-term use may lead to systemic corticosteroid effects. Not recommended for certain infections or perforations of the bowel.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy