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Proctosedyl Ointment
Proctosedyl ointment (hydrocortisone and cinchocaine) eases the pain, itching and swelling of piles. Apply it in the morning, at night and after each bowel movement, for up to 7 days.
Free online assessment with a UK prescriber
Proctosedyl ointment is a prescription treatment for piles (haemorrhoids). It contains a mild steroid, hydrocortisone, to reduce swelling and itching, and a local anaesthetic, cinchocaine, to numb the pain. It's usually applied morning and night, and after each bowel movement, for up to 7 days. At MedsRus, a UK prescriber reviews a short online consultation before supplying Proctosedyl, and we send it in plain packaging.
Proctosedyl at a glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Active ingredients | Hydrocortisone (a steroid) and cinchocaine (a local anaesthetic) |
| Used for | Pain, itching and swelling from internal and external piles |
| How often | Morning and night, and after each bowel movement |
| How long | Usually up to 7 days |
| Comes with | A nozzle (applicator) for internal piles |
| Prescription needed | Yes |
What is Proctosedyl ointment used for?
Proctosedyl is used to relieve the symptoms of piles, the swollen blood vessels in and around the back passage. It eases:
- pain and soreness;
- itching around the bottom;
- swelling and inflammation.
It can also be used for itching around the bottom (pruritus ani) and small tears (anal fissures), if a doctor recommends it. It treats the symptoms. Fibre, fluids and not straining help the piles themselves heal. See our page on piles treatment for self-care tips.
Is there a Proctosedyl cream? People often search for "Proctosedyl cream", but it comes as an ointment. A suppository version is also made for internal piles.
Ointment or suppositories?
| Proctosedyl ointment | Scheriproct suppositories | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | External piles, and internal piles using the nozzle | Internal piles only |
| Steroid | Hydrocortisone | Prednisolone |
| Local anaesthetic | Cinchocaine | Cinchocaine |
| How often | Morning and night, and after each bowel movement | Usually one a day, after a bowel movement (2 to 3 a day for the first few days if symptoms are severe) |
| How long | Up to 7 days | Up to 7 days |
We don't stock Proctosedyl suppositories. If you'd prefer a suppository for internal piles, Scheriproct suppositories contain the same local anaesthetic with a different mild steroid. The prescriber will suggest what suits you.
How does Proctosedyl work?
- Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid. It calms the inflammation that makes piles swollen, red and itchy.
- Cinchocaine is a local anaesthetic. It numbs the area, so you get quick relief from pain and stinging.
Together, they ease symptoms within a few days for most people.
How to apply Proctosedyl ointment
- Wash and gently dry the area around your bottom.
- Wash your hands.
- External piles: apply a small amount of ointment to the area with your finger.
- Internal piles: screw the nozzle onto the tube, gently insert it into your back passage, and squeeze a small amount in. Clean the nozzle after each use.
- Wash your hands again.
How many times a day?
Apply it in the morning and at night, and after each bowel movement. Don't use it for more than 7 days unless a doctor tells you to, because steroids used for longer can thin the skin.
If your symptoms haven't improved after 7 days, see a GP.
Side effects of Proctosedyl
Most people have no side effects with a short course. Some notice:
- mild burning or stinging when they first apply it;
- irritation or itching where it's applied.
Stop using it and get advice if you get a rash, more pain, or signs of an allergic reaction. Using it for longer than recommended can thin the skin around your bottom.
Who shouldn't use Proctosedyl?
It may not be suitable if you:
- have an infection in the area, such as a fungal, viral (for example herpes) or bacterial infection;
- are allergic to any of its ingredients;
- are pregnant, especially in the first 3 months, or breastfeeding, unless a doctor has advised it.
When to see a GP
Piles are the most common cause of bright red blood on the toilet paper, but bleeding can sometimes mean something more serious. See a GP if:
- the blood is dark, or mixed into your poo;
- your bowel habits have changed for 3 weeks or more;
- you've lost weight without trying;
- your symptoms haven't improved after 7 days of treatment.
Go to A&E if you're bleeding heavily or the bleeding won't stop.
How to order Proctosedyl from MedsRus
- Complete a short, confidential consultation about your symptoms and your health.
- A UK prescriber reviews it and, if suitable, approves your treatment.
- We send it in plain, discreet packaging.
Proctosedyl FAQs
What is Proctosedyl ointment used for?
To relieve the pain, itching and swelling of piles (haemorrhoids).
How many times a day should I use Proctosedyl?
Morning and night, and after each bowel movement.
How long does Proctosedyl take to work?
The anaesthetic eases pain quickly, and most people notice the swelling and itching improve within a few days.
Can I use Proctosedyl for more than 7 days?
Only if a doctor advises it. See a GP if your piles haven't improved after a week.
Can I use Proctosedyl inside?
Yes. Use the nozzle that comes with the tube for internal piles.
Is Proctosedyl the same as Scheriproct?
They work in a similar way. Scheriproct contains a different steroid (prednisolone). Our piles treatment page compares them.
Can I use Proctosedyl while pregnant?
Speak to a GP or pharmacist first if you're pregnant, especially in the first 3 months, or if you're breastfeeding.
Further reading
Sources: