Xyloproct

What is Xyloproct?

Xyloproct is an ointment used to relieve symptoms associated with haemorrhoids (piles), such as itching and pain in the anus and surrounding genital areas.

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 it is the first time you are experiencing haemorrhoids, or if you experience any rectal bleeding, you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

The main cause of haemorrhoids is often associated with excessive pressure exerted upon the blood vessels surrounding the anal area.

There are several factors which contribute to the development of haemorrhoids, such as:

• Age
• Being overweight or obese
• Chronic diarrhoea
• Extended periods of sitting
• Heavy lifting
• Pregnancy
• Straining when constipated

There are several ways to prevent haemorrhoids, including drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy and balanced diet enriched with fibre, and exercising regularly.

How does Xyloproct work?

Xyloproct contains two active ingredients: a corticosteroid called hydrocortisone and a local anaesthetic called lidocaine.

The corticosteroid reduces the inflammation at the site of application. It does this by preventing the cells from producing certain inflammatory substances. This brings relief from swelling and redness around the anus and helps to reduce the size of piles.

The local anaesthetic blocks nerve signals, numbing the area where the ointment is applied and providing relief from pain and discomfort.

How long does Xyloproct take to work?

The anaesthetic agent (lidocaine) should start working within 3 to 5 minutes of applying the cream.

The time it takes for Xyloproct to treat your haemorrhoids will depend on the severity of your condition and how your body responds to the treatment.

How to use Xyloproct?

The ointment can be applied directly to external piles and internal piles, using the supplied applicator. The amount of ointment you should use depends on the size of the affected area, although you shouldn't use more than 6g of Xyloproct per day.

For external use:

Squeeze a pea-sized amount of the ointment onto your fingertip and spread it onto the affected area without rubbing it in.

Do not use toilet paper to apply the ointment.

For internal use:

1. Screw the provided plastic applicator nozzle onto the tube.
2. Insert the whole nozzle into the back passage
3. Gently squeeze the tube while pulling the nozzle out.

Always wash your hands before and after applying Xyloproct.

What should I do if I forget to use Xyloproct?

If you forget to use Xyloproct when you should, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue to use Xyloproct as prescribed.

Do not use more Xyloproct to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I accidentally use more Xyloproct cream than I should?

If you apply more Xyloproct than you should, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

You should not use more than 6g of Xyloproct (approximately one-third of a tube) per day.

If you are unsure how much Xyloproct you should use, consult your doctor.

Xyloproct side effects and cautions

All medicines carry the risk of side effects, though not everyone gets them. Understanding the risks associated with your medicines is vital to your healthcare.

Before using Xyloproct, read the patient information leaflet that accompanies your medicine. The patient information leaflet contains instructions for storing, using and disposing of the medicine, as well as important information regarding the safety of Xyloproct.

You can read the patient information leaflet for Xyloproct online as a PDF. You can download, enlarge or print the document for future reference.

Who should not use Xyloproct?

Xyloproct is not suitable for everyone. Before you take Xyloproct, speak to your doctor or pharmacist if:

• you have an infection where the ointment will be applied
• you or someone in your family have porphyria
• your skin is thin and fragile around the area where you will be applying the ointment

Do not use Xyloproct if you:

• are allergic to lidocaine, hydrocortisone or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet
• have an infection where the ointment is going to be applied which is not being treated
• have ever had an allergic reaction to other local anaesthetics or to other corticosteroid medicines
• take medicines for an uneven heartbeat (such as amiodarone or sotalol)

If you are unsure whether Xyloproct is safe for you, speak to your doctor.

Xyloproct side effects

Xyloproct side effects may include:

• Redness, swelling and itching where Xyloproct is applied.

Stop using Xyloproct and speak to your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

• Rectal pain (pain in your back passage)
• Rectal bleeding (bleeding from your back passage)

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects associated with Xyloproct. Further information regarding the safety of Xyloproct, including a complete list of side effects, can be found inside the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine.

Allergies

Do not use Xyloproct if you are allergic to lidocaine, hydrocortisone acetate or any of its other ingredients.

• Difficulty breathing
• Rash or hives on the skin
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not use Xyloproct if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Consult your doctor for additional guidance.

Other safety information

Please inform our medical team of all medications you are currently taking, including those prescribed by your doctor or bought over the counter, such as health and herbal supplements.

Do not use Xyloproct past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the specified month.

Never dispose of medicines via household or water waste, as it can harm the environment. Ask your local pharmacy if they can dispose of your unwanted or expired medicine for you.

Always store Xyloproct out of sight and out of reach of children and pets.

Never share a medicine which has been prescribed to you with anybody else, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms or have the same condition as you.

Frequently asked questions about Xyloproct

Will Xyloproct interact with any other medicines I take?

Lidocaine, a local anaesthetic active in Xyloproct, can interact with anti-arrhythmic drugs, such as amiodarone or sotalol. If you are taking medicine to treat heart arrhythmia, speak to your doctor to determine whether Xyloproct is suitable for you

You should avoid using other local anaesthetic agents while taking Xyloproct.

Will Xyloproct affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Xyloproct may temporarily affect your coordination and concentration.

If you experience any side effects which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely, such as dizziness, fatigue or visual disturbances, avoid these activities until you feel better.

Can I drink alcohol while using Xyloproct?

While alcohol should not interfere with the effectiveness of Xyloproct, it may adversely affect your haemorrhoids.

Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages should be avoided or limited while treating haemorrhoids because they can exhibit diuretic effects. This results in less water being absorbed by your body and can lead to constipation, increasing the difficulty of passing stools and causing unnecessary strain.

Instead, drink plenty of water and eat a diet rich in fibre to loosen your stools, making them easier to excrete.

Related information

Avoid these 7 things if you have haemorrhoids