Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate at a glance
Medicine class
Locally acting glucocorticoid corticosteroid
Route
Rectal use only, as a metered foam or retention solution
Licensed role
Local treatment of ulcerative colitis; the foam is also licensed for proctitis
Systemic exposure
Designed for local treatment, although absorption and whole-body corticosteroid effects remain possible, particularly with extensive or prolonged use
What is Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate used for?
These rectal products are licensed for local treatment of inflammatory bowel disease affecting the lower bowel.
Ulcerative colitis
Proctitis — for the rectal foam formulation
How does Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate work?
This synthetic glucocorticoid reduces inflammatory and immune activity in the bowel lining. Rectal administration concentrates treatment near the affected tissue and generally produces lower blood concentrations than some other prednisolone formulations.
Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate preparations and strengths
Enema
Route: Rectal
Strengths: 20 mg/100 mL
Rectal foam
Route: Rectal
Strengths: 20 mg/dose
How to take Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate
Use only in the rectum and follow the instructions supplied with the specific formulation.
For foam, shake the canister, attach a disposable applicator and position the canister as instructed. Standing with one foot raised or lying on your side may help; lubricating jelly can ease insertion.
For solution, use it at room temperature or warm it in warm water. Lie on your side with your knees drawn up, lubricate and insert the nozzle, empty the container gently, then lie face down briefly to help retain the liquid.
Discard used applicators and containers hygienically. Food does not affect administration because the product is used rectally.
Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Available product information does not classify any effects as common; adverse effects are reported to occur infrequently with rectal use.
- The foam’s excipients can cause local irritation, contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction.
Get urgent medical advice
- Raised blood pressure with reduced urine in someone with systemic sclerosis, suggesting scleroderma renal crisis
- Blurred or otherwise altered vision
- Slow heart rate, particularly with substantial systemic exposure
- Whole-body corticosteroid effects such as adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, raised eye pressure or cataract with extensive or prolonged use
Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate in pregnancy
Direct pregnancy safety evidence is limited and systemic absorption is possible, so an individual assessment is recommended. UK pregnancy information indicates that systemic prednisolone can be used when recommended by a clinician and that controlling inflammatory disease is important.
Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate while breastfeeding
Evidence for this specific rectal ester is limited. UK specialist guidance considers prednisolone a preferred corticosteroid during breastfeeding because milk levels are small; local administration should generally produce lower systemic exposure. Additional assessment may be appropriate with prolonged exposure or if the infant is premature or unwell.
Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate interactions
Systemic interactions remain possible despite rectal administration. Tell the prescriber or pharmacist about all prescribed, non-prescribed and complementary products.
Strong CYP3A inhibitors, including ritonavir and cobicistat
They can increase prednisolone exposure and systemic corticosteroid adverse effects; concurrent use may require avoidance or closer monitoring.
Anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin
Systemic prednisolone can increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal adverse effects, so suitability should be checked with a clinician or pharmacist.
Common questions about Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate used for?
It is used rectally to reduce inflammation in ulcerative colitis. The foam is also licensed for proctitis.
Is Prednisolone sodium metasulphobenzoate a steroid?
Yes. It is a glucocorticoid corticosteroid formulated to act mainly in the rectum and lower bowel.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.