hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine at a glance
Medicine class
Mild topical corticosteroid combined with a local anaesthetic
Main role
Relieves local pain, itching and inflammation associated with haemorrhoids and other anorectal conditions
Route
Applied externally around the anus or intrarectally using the supplied applicator
What is hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine used for?
The ointment is licensed to relieve symptoms associated with:
Haemorrhoids causing anal or perianal itching, pain and inflammation
Anal fissures, fistulas and proctitis
Vulval itching
How does hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine work?
Lidocaine temporarily blocks nerve-impulse conduction, reducing local pain and discomfort. Hydrocortisone acetate suppresses local inflammation and itching.
hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine preparations and strengths
Ointment
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 5% + 0.275%
How to take hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine
Apply to the affected external area, or use the supplied applicator if intrarectal administration has been advised. Avoid introducing excessive ointment into the rectum. Clean the applicator thoroughly after use and wash your hands before and afterwards.
Stop using it and seek advice if irritation or rectal bleeding develops.
Do not apply it to untreated infected or atrophic skin.
hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine side effects
Common or expected effects
- Brief burning or stinging after application
- Local irritation or contact sensitivity
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis
- Worsening infection at the application site
- Seizure or central nervous system depression after excessive lidocaine absorption
- Skin thinning or systemic corticosteroid effects with prolonged or excessive use
hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine in pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when a physician considers it essential. Discuss this combination with a doctor, pharmacist or midwife before use.
hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine while breastfeeding
Effects on a breastfed infant are unlikely when the ointment is used as intended. UK specialist guidance considers topical and rectal combinations compatible with breastfeeding in full-term, healthy infants. Wash your hands after application and prevent the infant contacting the ointment.
hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine interactions
Interactions mainly concern additive effects from lidocaine.
Class III anti-arrhythmics, including amiodarone and sotalol
Cardiac effects may be additive. Use together is contraindicated outside hospital; hospital use requires close surveillance with consideration of ECG monitoring.
Other local anaesthetics or structurally related medicines
Combined exposure can increase local-anaesthetic toxicity.
Common questions about hydrocortisone acetate + lidocaine
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Does it cure haemorrhoids?
No. It reduces pain, itching and inflammation but does not remove haemorrhoids or their underlying causes.
Can it be used inside the rectum?
Yes. The ointment is licensed for intrarectal use with its supplied applicator, which should be cleaned thoroughly afterwards.
What should I do if rectal bleeding develops?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.