Xyloproct Ointment

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How does it work?

Lidocaine belongs to a group of medicines known as local anaesthetics. It acts to temporarily block the pathway of pain along nerve fibres. This allows relief from pain where the medicine has been applied. Hydrocortisone belongs to a group of medicines known as the corticosteroids. Irritation of the skin or membranes causes the release of substances that widen blood vessels, causing the area to become red, swollen and painful. As the medicine is absorbed, it inhibits the action of these substances allowing the blood vessels to return to their normal size. Consequently this preparation is used to relieve these symptoms in both haemorrhoids and other anal conditions.

What is it used for?

- Anal itch
- Inflammation of the communicating tract between an organ and the anus (anal fistula)
- Inflammation of the rectum (proctitis)
- Itching of the external female genitalia (pruritus vulva)
- Piles
- Tear in the lining of the back passage (anal fissure)

Warning!

- Avoid prolonged use.
- Current infections require additional treatment with the relevant anti-infectives.
- If irritation or rectal bleeding occurs treatment should be discontinued.
- The possibility of cancer should be excluded before use.
- Avoid excessive amounts of this medicine being used in infants and children.
- The suppository should be used in preference to the ointment for the treatment of proctitis or internal haemorrhoids.

Use with caution in

- Children with epilepsy or a history of fitting

Not to be used in

- Pregnancy
- Thin, easily damaged skin (atrophic skin)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- The medicine passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses it is unlikely to harm the baby. Discuss with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

- Seizures (convulsions)
- Skin rash at the area of application (local dermatitis)
- Decreased functioning of the adrenal gland (adrenal suppression)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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