What Is Anucort-HC? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

If your doctor has prescribed Anucort-HC, you likely have questions about what exactly this medication does, how to use it correctly, and what to watch out for. This guide covers everything you need to know about Anucort-HC in plain language — from what it is to how to get it filled in 2026.

What Is Anucort-HC?

Anucort-HC is the brand name for hydrocortisone acetate 25 mg rectal suppositories, manufactured and distributed by Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc. of South Plainfield, New Jersey. It's a prescription-only medication that delivers hydrocortisone — a corticosteroid hormone — directly into the rectum to reduce inflammation.

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid (steroid) that occurs naturally in the body in small amounts. As a medication, it works by reducing the activity of the body's inflammatory response — calming redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort in the rectal area.

What Does Anucort-HC Treat?

Anucort-HC is prescribed for the following conditions:

Inflamed internal hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum. When inflamed, they can cause pain, bleeding, and significant discomfort. Anucort-HC reduces the inflammation directly at the site.

Proctitis: Inflammation of the rectal lining, which can be caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infection, or radiation therapy (post-irradiation/factitial proctitis).

Ulcerative colitis (adjunct therapy): As part of a broader treatment plan for ulcerative colitis, particularly when the inflammation is limited to the rectum (ulcerative proctitis) or lower bowel.

Cryptitis: Inflammation of the anal crypts (small pockets in the anal canal).

Pruritus ani: Persistent itching of the skin around the anus, often related to rectal inflammation.

How to Use Anucort-HC: Step-by-Step Dosage Instructions

Try to have a bowel movement before inserting the suppository, if possible.

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the suppository.

Detach one suppository from the strip. Hold it upright and separate the tabs at the top, pulling downward toward the pointed end to unwrap.

Avoid excessive handling — the suppository is designed to melt at body temperature. If needed, moisten the tip with a few drops of cold water.

Lie on your left side with your right knee bent toward your chest.

Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first, with gentle pressure. Insert deep enough so it does not slide back out.

Remain lying down for about 15 minutes to allow the suppository to stay in place as it dissolves.

Standard Dosage by Condition

Nonspecific proctitis: 1 suppository (25 mg) rectally twice daily, morning and night, for 2 weeks

Severe cases: 1 suppository 3 times daily, or 2 suppositories twice daily

Post-irradiation (factitial) proctitis: 6-8 weeks of treatment, or less depending on response

Always follow your doctor's specific instructions, which may differ from general guidelines based on your condition and response to treatment.

How Is Anucort-HC Stored?

Store Anucort-HC at room temperature between 68-77°F (20-25°C). Keep it away from heat and protect it from freezing. Do not store in the bathroom (where moisture and heat can fluctuate). Keep out of reach of children.

Key Warnings to Know

Do not use Anucort-HC without first having a proctologic examination — rectal bleeding of unclear origin should be evaluated before treatment begins

Stop using it and call your doctor if your symptoms worsen or don't improve within the prescribed timeframe

Do not use longer than prescribed — prolonged use increases the risk of steroid-related side effects

Diabetic patients should monitor blood glucose, as corticosteroids can raise blood sugar levels

Availability and Finding Your Prescription in 2026

Anucort-HC is not in a national shortage, but it isn't stocked at every pharmacy. If your local pharmacy doesn't have it, use medfinder to find pharmacies near you that have it in stock. You can also ask about the generic version (hydrocortisone acetate 25 mg rectal suppository), which contains the same active ingredient and is more widely available.

For tips on reducing the cost of Anucort-HC, see our guide on how to save money on Anucort-HC in 2026.