DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Hydrocortisone Acetate, Lidocaine Rectal gel

March 22, 2017

Hydrocortisone Acetate, Lidocaine Rectal gel

What is this medicine?

LIDOCAINE; HYDROCORTISONE (LYE doe kane; hye droe KOR ti sone) is a combination of an anesthetic and a steroid. It is used to treat itching, pain, and swelling from hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other rectal problems.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow directions on the label. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not cover with a bandage or dressing unless your doctor or health care professional tells you to. If you are to cover the area, follow the instructions carefully. Covering the area can increase the amount that passes through the skin and increases the risk of side effects. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. It is important not to use more medicine than prescribed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • chest pain

  • confused, excitable, nervous, restless

  • dizzy, drowsy

  • headache

  • irregular heartbeat

  • nausea, vomiting

  • seizures

  • tremors

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • burning or stinging just after use

  • lighter or redder skin color in area where cream is applied

  • numbness in area where cream is applied

What may interact with this medicine?

  • medicines to control heart rhythm

Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • infected, open or damaged skin

  • liver disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to lidocaine, hydrocortisone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. See your doctor right away if you get signs of an infection where you use this medicine.

Be careful to avoid injury while the area is numb and you are not aware of pain.

Updated:  

March 22, 2017