Entocort EC (Budesonide)

Entocort EC Information:

Entocort EC (generic name: Budesonide) is a drug which is prescribed for the treatment of Crohn’s disease. Budesonide belongs to the group of drugs called steroids. It works b preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation to occur. Crohn’s disease is a chronic (long term) illness which causes inflammation to occur in the lining of the digestive system. The most common areas for inflammation to occur in patients with Crohn’s disease are the ileum (last section of the small intestine), and the colon (the large intestine), but inflammation can occur anywhere in the digestive system including the mouth, food pipe, stomach intestines and anus. Over time, the inflammation can cause damage to parts of the digestive system. Symptoms of Crohn’s disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain and tiredness/fatigue. The cause of the disease is unknown, and the disease is rare with only approximately 7 new cases of Crohn’s disease per 100,000 people every year. Because Entocort EC reduces inflammation and swelling, this can help with discomfort for the patient. Entocort does not cure Crohn’s disease, but it treats the symptoms.

Entocort EC Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Entocort EC including thinning of the skin, easy bruising, headache, runny/stuff nose, cough, sore throat, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, mild skin rash, changes in menstrual periods and muscle pain. More serious side effects may include changes in shape/location of body fat, increased blood pressure and general ill feeling (headaches, nausea, fatigue). If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Entocort EC Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Entocort EC to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Entocort EC comes in 3 mg capsules. You should swallow Entocort EC whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, open or chew capsules as this may result in too much of the drug being released at once, which could have undesirable effects. Entocort EC should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat.

Entocort EC Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Entocort EC, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcer, measles, scarlet fever, any condition with skin rash, diverticulitis, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, coronary artery disease, overactive thyroid, mental illness, muscle disorder or personal/family history of diabetes, glaucoma or cataracts. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Entocort EC, including ketoconazole. It is important that you inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Entocort EC may cause harm to unborn and new born babies.