Liver Problems
Tell your healthcare provider if you have liver disease.
Budesonide is processed by the liver. If liver function is reduced, more medication may remain in the body, which can increase the risk of corticosteroid side effects.
People with moderate to severe liver impairment may need closer monitoring.
Increased Risk of Infection
Uceris can weaken the immune system and make it harder for your body to fight infections.
Avoid close contact with people who have contagious illnesses such as chickenpox or measles, especially if you have never had these infections or have not been vaccinated against them.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you are exposed.
Tuberculosis and Other Infections
Tell your healthcare provider if you have or have previously had:
- Tuberculosis
- A fungal infection
- A bacterial or viral infection
- Herpes simplex infection of the eye
Corticosteroids can sometimes worsen existing infections or allow inactive infections to become active again.
Bone Loss
Long-term corticosteroid use can reduce bone mineral density and increase the risk of osteoporosis or fractures.
Uceris is usually used for a limited treatment period, but tell your healthcare provider if you already have osteoporosis or other risk factors for weak bones.
High Blood Pressure
Corticosteroids can sometimes increase blood pressure or cause fluid retention.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or problems with swelling.
Your blood pressure may need to be monitored during treatment.
Diabetes and Blood Sugar
Uceris can increase blood sugar levels in some people.
If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar as directed and tell your healthcare provider if your readings become consistently higher than usual.
Your diabetes treatment may occasionally need adjustment.
Glaucoma and Cataracts
Tell your healthcare provider if you have glaucoma, cataracts, or a family history of glaucoma.
Corticosteroids can increase pressure inside the eye and may contribute to cataract formation, especially with prolonged use.
Report blurred vision or other persistent vision changes.
Mood and Behavioral Changes
Corticosteroids can sometimes affect mood, sleep, or behavior.
Possible effects may include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Mood changes
- Depression
- Trouble sleeping
- Rarely, severe psychiatric symptoms
Tell your healthcare provider if you experience major or unusual changes in mood or behavior.
Adrenal Suppression
Even though budesonide has fewer whole-body effects than some other corticosteroids, it can still suppress the body’s natural production of cortisol.
The risk increases with higher doses, prolonged treatment, severe liver impairment, or when switching from a stronger systemic corticosteroid.
Do not suddenly stop long-term corticosteroid therapy without medical guidance.
Drug Interactions
Uceris can interact with other medications.
Certain strong CYP3A4 inhibitors can increase budesonide levels and raise the risk of side effects.
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you use.
Also avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
Pregnancy
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Your healthcare provider will consider the benefits of controlling ulcerative colitis and any potential risks before recommending Uceris during pregnancy.
Do not stop treatment on your own if you become pregnant.
Breastfeeding
Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding.
Budesonide can pass into breast milk in small amounts.
Your healthcare provider can help determine whether Uceris is appropriate while breastfeeding.
Stomach and Intestinal Side Effects
Uceris can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Indigestion
Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms become severe, persistent, or are accompanied by worsening ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Regular Monitoring
During treatment, your healthcare provider may monitor your:
- Ulcerative colitis symptoms
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar
- Signs of infection
- Corticosteroid-related side effects
Regular monitoring helps make sure Uceris remains safe and effective during the treatment period.
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