Entocort® EC is a steroid used to treat mild to moderate Crohn’s disease (involving the ileum and/or the ascending colon) and ulcerative colitis. The active ingredient in Entocort® EC is budesonide. Budesonide is a synthetic glucocorticoid steroid, which has anti-inflammatory properties, that works by decreasing the immune response, a natural defense mechanism. Most of the drug is released in the intestine and not the blood stream, which results in fewer side effects than corticosteroids such as prednisone.
How do I take Entocort® EC?
Entocort® EC is available as a firm gelatin capsule filled with enteric-coated granules that contain the medication. This coating allows the medication to pass through the stomach and into the digestive system to the second part of the small intestine or the beginning of the large intestine, where the inflammation usually occurs. It is taken with or without food according to your doctor’s prescription. It is usually taken once a day in the morning with a full glass of water. This capsule should never be chewed or crushed. Extended release pills should not be split unless your doctor or pharmacist gives you precise instructions to do so.
Prescription Entocort® EC – 3 mg capsules
Prescription Entocort® Enema – 0.02 mg/mL
Entocort® is also available as an enema, which also helps reduce inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis involving the sigmoid, rectum and descending colon. The enema consists of two parts: an applicator bottle of solution and a dispersible tablet which contains micronized budesonide.
Note: Do not drink grapefruit juice with this medication as it may interfere with its effectiveness by increasing the amount of medication in your body.
Do not stop taking this medication without guidance from your doctor, as stopping immediately may make the condition worse and may increase withdrawal symptoms.
What are the common side effects of Entocort® EC?
Some common side effects of this medication include:
- Dizziness
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Nausea
- Headache
Who should not take Entocort® EC?
Always tell your doctor if you have or had any of these conditions before taking Entocort® EC:
- High blood pressure
- Osteoporosis
- Tuberculosis
- Ulcers
- Glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Cataracts
- Immune system deficiencies
Also tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications.
Do not use the Entocort® enema if you have complications such as bowel obstructions, bowel perforation, abscesses or fistulae. You also should not use this medication if you have any viral infections, bacterial infections or fungal infections until speaking with your doctor.
Did you find this article helpful? Other related articles:
Asacol® – prescription medication for the treatment of ulcerative colitis.
Ten important questions to ask your pharmacist about your prescription.
6 common food and prescription medication combinations to avoid.
Take a pill? Take a spray? How you take your medication is as important as when.
If you have questions about your prescription medications or any other medication, please contact our team at Canada Online Health by calling toll free 1-800-399-DRUG (3784). One of our patient representatives will be happy to assist you or transfer you to a licensed Canadian pharmacist for a free consultation.
This article contains medical information provided to help you better understand this particular medical condition or process, and may contain information about medication often used as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a doctor. It is not intended to be used as either a diagnosis or recommendation for treatment of your particular medical situation. If you are unwell, concerned about your physical or mental state, or are experiencing symptoms you should speak with your doctor or primary health care provider. If you are in medical distress please contact emergency services (such as 911).
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