Proctosedyl Ointment & Suppositories

What is Proctosedyl used for?

Proctosedyl ointment is a topical haemorrhoid treatment which contains two active ingredients: hydrocortisone and cinchocaine.

Proctosedyl is available as a cream or suppositories. You can use Proctosedyl cream to treat both internal and external piles.

While Proctosedyl suppositories are only used to treat internal haemorrhoids, they can be used in conjunction with the cream to provide relief from both internal and external piles.

When applied to the affected area, Proctosedyl ointment provides relief from painful haemorrhoids (piles) for between 5 and 7 days.

You can buy Proctosedyl online from Prescription Doctor, following a quick consultation with one of our doctors. If approved by our doctor before 3pm on weekdays, our UK pharmacy will dispense and dispatch your order the same day via discreet next-day delivery.

What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids (piles) are small lumps in or around the anus, which develop due to increased pressure in the surrounding blood vessels, resulting in swelling and inflammation.

In many cases, haemorrhoids are painless and clear up after a few days. Other cases may be painful and discomforting. In such instances, consult your doctor about available treatment options.

It is possible to be unaware of the condition, but haemorrhoids can cause several unpleasant symptoms, including:

• bleeding after passing stool
• distended lumps hanging from the anus
• itching around the anus (anal pruritus)
• mucus discharge after passing stool
• soreness, redness and swelling around the anus

Diagnosis of haemorrhoids is usually made based on the physical symptoms alone.

If you are experiencing haemorrhoids for the first time, or if you experience any rectal bleeding, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

The leading cause of haemorrhoids is often associated with excessive pressure exerted upon the blood vessels surrounding the anal area. There are numerous factors which contribute to the development of haemorrhoids, including:

• age
• bring overweight or obese
• chronic diarrhoea
• extended periods of sitting
• heavy lifting
• pregnancy
• straining when constipated

There are various ways to prevent haemorrhoids, including drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy and balanced diet rich in fibre, and exercising regularly.

How does Proctosedyl ointment work?

Proctosedyl contains two active ingredients (hydrocortisone and cinchocaine).

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid (steroid) that reduces swelling and inflammation. It does this by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals from cells.

Cinchocaine is a local anaesthetic. This blocks pain signals being sent to the brain along the nerves. It numbs the area of application and provides temporary relief from pain and itching.

Together, the active ingredients of Proctosedyl provide fast and effective relief from uncomfortable haemorrhoids.

Can Proctosedyl ointment be used for both internal and external haemorrhoids?

Proctosedyl ointment can be used to treat both internal and external haemorrhoids.

How do I use Proctosedyl ointment?

Proctosedyl ointment is applied directly onto the affected area.

Before applying the ointment, wash the affected area thoroughly and gently dry it.

To treat external haemorrhoids:

1. Wash your hands
2. Squeeze a small amount of ointment onto your fingertip
3. Gently rub a small layer of ointment over the painful or itching area
4. Wash your hands after application.

To treat internal haemorrhoids:

1. Wash your hands
2. Screw the plastic application nozzle (provided) onto the tube
3. Insert the nozzle into your back passage
4. Squeeze the tube gently as you slowly pull it out
5. Stay still for one or two minutes
6. Wash your hands and the applicator nozzle after use

Always wash your hands after every application of this medicine.

What should I do if I use more Proctosedyl than I should?

Avoid applying more Proctosedyl ointment than necessary. Applying more Proctosedyl ointment will not alleviate your symptoms more quickly, but may increase your risk of experiencing side effects.

If you feel that you need to use more of the medicine than recommended, it may indicate that this treatment is not right for you.

Speak to your doctor if you feel Proctosedyl is not working for you.

What should I do if I forget to use Proctosedyl when I should?

If you forget to use Proctosedyl ointment, use it as soon as you remember.

If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue using Proctosedyl ointment as usual.

Do not use more Proctosedyl ointment to make up for a dose you missed.

Proctosedyl side effects and cautions

Before using Proctosedyl, it's essential to read the patient information leaflet that accompanies your medicine.

You can read the patient information leaflet for Proctosedyl ointment online.

If you have any concerns or doubts about the information in the patient information leaflet, please speak to your doctor or discuss your concerns with a pharmacist.

Side effects

All medicines have the potential to cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Possible side effects of Proctosedyl may include:

• Blurred vision
• Skin rash
• Thinning of the skin

This is not a complete list of side effects associated with Proctosedyl. For further information regarding the safety of Proctosedyl, read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your treatment.

If you experience any side effects, whether listed above or in the patient information leaflet, please report them to your doctor.

Allergies

Do not take Proctosedyl if you are allergic to any of its ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

If you experience the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop using the medicine immediately and seek appropriate medical attention. Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Rash
• Breathing trouble
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat

Who should not take Proctosedyl?

Proctosedyl is not suitable for everyone. Speak to your doctor before using Proctosedyl if you are:

• breastfeeding
• pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant
• taking HIV medication (ritonavir, cobicistat)

Will Proctosedyl interact with any other medicines I am taking?

Please inform our prescriber of all the medicines you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter and natural medicines such as health supplements.

How to stay safe when taking Proctosedyl

Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes. If you accidentally get Proctosedyl ointment in your eyes, rinse them out with water. If you experience pain in your eyes, even after rinsing your eyes, seek emergency medical attention.

Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days. If you accidentally use this medicine for more than 7 days, inform your doctor as soon as possible.

Always store Proctosedyl ointment out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Frequently asked questions about Proctosedyl

Are haemorrhoids and piles the same?

Haemorrhoids and piles are the same conditions. Pile is a colloquial term for the condition.

Will Proctosedyl affect my ability to drive?

If you experience visual disturbances while using Proctosedyl, do not drive or operate machinery.

Can I drink alcohol while using Proctosedyl?

It is unlikely that Proctosedyl will be affected by alcohol.

However, you may want to reduce your intake of alcohol while you have haemorrhoids. Alcohol can cause dehydration and constipation, which can worsen the symptoms of haemorrhoids.

Can I use Proctosedyl while pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant, intend on becoming pregnant or breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor for further advice before using Proctosedyl.

Is proctosedyl available to buy over the counter?

Proctosedyl is only available on prescription.

You can get a prescription for Proctosedyl online from Prescription Doctor. Fill out our online medical form for our prescribers to review. If your order is approved before 3pm on a weekday, our pharmacy can dispatch your item the same day.