Indications 

Uceris is a prescribed medication intended for initiating remission in individuals with active, mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. 

As a glucocorticosteroid, Uceris works by suppressing the body’s innate defense mechanisms to mitigate inflammation within the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Uceris and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any queries, do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

The dosage and length of treatment with Uceris may vary per individual based on medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

Typically, Uceris is taken once daily in the morning as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

The tablet should be ingested whole with a full glass of water unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Avoid crushing or chewing the tablets, as this may lead to the rapid release of the medication, elevating the potential for side effects. 

To achieve the best outcomes, take this medication exactly as directed at a consistent time each day. Avoid increasing the prescribed dose or exceeding the recommended frequency or duration of intake, as it will not expedite recovery and may heighten the likelihood of adverse effects. 

Consult your doctor before discontinuing Uceris, as ceasing this medication abruptly may exacerbate certain conditions. Your dosage may require a gradual reduction. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Uceris. Tell your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms persist or deteriorate. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache, dizziness 
• Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, bloating, gas, constipation 
• Fatigue 
• High blood pressure 
• Back pain, muscle cramps, joint pain 
• Swelling of the face, lower legs, ankles, and feet 
• Pain and burning during urination 
• Acne 
• Increased body and facial hair thickness or growth 
• Cold symptoms, including stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Increased adrenal gland hormones: 
  • Hunger 
  • Weight gain 
  • Swelling 
  • Skin discoloration 
  • Slow wound healing 
  • Sweating 
  • Acne 
  • Increased body hair 
  • Fatigue 
  • Mood changes 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Missed menstrual periods 
  • Sexual changes 
• Decreased adrenal gland hormones: 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Stomach pain 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Fatigue or light-headedness 
  • Muscle or joint pain 
  • Skin discoloration 
  • Craving salty foods 
• Signs of infection: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Sore throat 
  • Body aches 
  • Unusual fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Bruising or bleeding 

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the above-listed serious side effects. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Uceris may occur. Prompt medical help is necessary upon observing any indications of an allergic response, including: 

• Hives 
• Itchiness or swelling (particularly in the face, lips, tongue, or throat) 
• Difficulty in breathing 

Not all side effects of Uceris are included in this list. Notify your doctor if any unlisted effects are encountered. 

Cautions 

Before initiating Uceris treatment, notify your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to budesonide. 

Seek further guidance from your pharmacist regarding Uceris, as it may include inert ingredients that have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Uceris is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Eye issues (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma) 
• Hypertension (high blood pressure) 
• Liver problems 
• Diabetes 
• Gastrointestinal concerns (e.g., diverticulitis, ulcers) 
• Osteoporosis (bone loss) 
• Prior or ongoing infections (e.g., tuberculosis, herpes) 
• Bleeding problems 
• Psychological or emotional issues (e.g., psychosis, anxiety, depression) 

Inform all your healthcare providers of any current or recently started or stopped medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements to minimize the risk of drug interaction with Uceris. 

Some of the products that may interact with Uceris are: 

• Aldesleukin 
• Mifepristone 
• Medications with bleeding/bruising risks (e.g., antiplatelet drugs like clopidogrel, anticoagulants like dabigatran/warfarin, NSAIDs such as aspirin/celecoxib/ibuprofen) 

However, if your doctor has prescribed low-dose aspirin (typically 81-162 milligrams daily) for heart attack or stroke prevention, maintain this regimen unless otherwise instructed. 

Consumption of grapefruit products should be avoided while taking Uceris as they can interact with its active ingredient budesonide and result in side effects. 

Uceris can potentially disrupt specific lab tests, leading to inaccurate results. Inform laboratory staff and your healthcare providers about your use of this medication. 

Uceris increases susceptibility to infections and exacerbates existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals carrying easily transmissible infections (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Consult your physician if exposed to an infection or for further information. 

Inform your healthcare provider of your intake of Uceris before receiving any immunizations. Refrain from interacting with individuals who have recently undergone live vaccinations, such as the nasal flu vaccine. 

Older individuals may exhibit heightened sensitivity to Uceris’s side effects, particularly bone loss/pain, stomach/intestinal bleeding, and mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion). 

Taking Uceris over an extended period may impede a child’s growth. Ensure regular check-ups with a doctor to monitor your child’s height and growth. 

Uceris should only be used during pregnancy if necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.  

Babies born to mothers who have used corticosteroids long-term may experience hormone-related issues. Inform your doctor immediately if you observe persistent nausea, unrelenting vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn. 

Budesonide may be excreted in breast milk. Seek medical advice prior to nursing.