What is Proctozone-HC: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Proctozone-HC overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Anu-Med Hc, Anucort-HC, Rectasol-Hc, Rectasol-Hc, Rectasol-Hc, Procto-Med HC, Procto-Pak, Proctozone-Hc, Rectasol-Hc, Proctocort, Hemmorex-HC, Cortifoam, Anusol-HC

Generic Names:

  • Hydrocortisone (Perianal)

Uses:

  • Treats inflammation of the rectum and anus. May also be used for ulcerative colitis and similar conditions. This medicine is a corticosteroid.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Anti-Inflammatory, Hemorrhoidal Anti-Inflammatory

Forms:

  • Cream, Suppository, Foam

How it’s taken:

  • Into the rectum

What is Proctozone-HC used for?

Proctozone-HC comes in the form of a cream and is used to treat skin irritation caused by hemorrhoids and other inflammatory conditions of the anus. It works by reducing the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling. Common side effects may include increased sweating, acne, and mild rectal pain or burning.

What form(s) does Proctozone-HC come in

  • Cream

  • Suppository

  • Foam

What are common Proctozone-HC doses?

  • Tube 30GM of 2.5%

Common Proctozone-HC prescriptions

  • Proctozone-HC
    30gm of 2.5% tube

  • Proctozone-HC
    30gm of 2.5% tube of cream

How to take Proctozone-HC

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • Follow the directions on your medicine for preparing the foam or suppository.

  • FoamDo not use the aerosol container to put the medicine directly into your rectum. Always use the foam applicator that came with the medicine. Connect the applicator to the cap of the aerosol container. Shake the container for 5 to 10 seconds just before using.Wash the foam applicator with warm, soapy water after you use it. Store the foam at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not refrigerate.

  • SuppositoryRemove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. After you insert the medicine, keep lying down for about 15 minutes so the suppository does not come out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again. Rectal routeYou may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.

  • Missed dose:Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Rectal routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • SuppositoryRemove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it. After you insert the medicine, keep lying down for about 15 minutes so the suppository does not come out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again. Rectal routeYou may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • FoamDo not use the aerosol container to put the medicine directly into your rectum. Always use the foam applicator that came with the medicine. Connect the applicator to the cap of the aerosol container. Shake the container for 5 to 10 seconds just before using.Wash the foam applicator with warm, soapy water after you use it. Store the foam at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not refrigerate.

  • Follow the directions on your medicine for preparing the foam or suppository.

  • Missed dose:Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of Proctozone-HC

Proctozone-HC contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone, or if you have a fungus infection.

Proctozone-HC warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, cirrhosis, osteoporosis, thyroid problems, or myasthenia gravis. Tell your doctor if you have digestive problems, including ulcer, colitis, or diverticulitis.

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Cataracts or glaucomaHigh blood pressureIncreased risk for osteoporosisAdrenal gland problems

  • This medicine may cause you to get infections more easily. Tell your doctor if you have any type of infection before you start treatment. Avoid people who are sick or have infections. If you are exposed to chickenpox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • This medicine may delay growth in children. If you think your child is not growing properly while using this medicine, talk with your doctor.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Proctozone-HC interactions

  • Some medicines and foods can affect how hydrocortisone works. Tell you doctor if you are also using any of the following:Amphotericin B, aminoglutethimide, carbamazepine, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, digitalis, isoniazid, ketoconazole, or phenytoinAntibiotic, including azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, or rifampinBlood thinner, including warfarinDiuretic (water pill)Estrogen, including oral contraceptiveInsulin or other diabetes medicineNSAID, including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib

  • This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

  • This medicine may cause you to get infections more easily. Tell your doctor if you have any type of infection before you start treatment. Avoid people who are sick or have infections. If you are exposed to chickenpox or measles, tell your doctor right away.

  • This medicine may delay growth in children. If you think your child is not growing properly while using this medicine, talk with your doctor.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Proctozone-HC side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Dark freckles, skin color changes, coldness, weakness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, weight loss

  • Eye pain, vision changes

  • Dry mouth, increased thirst, muscle cramps, nausea or vomiting, uneven heartbeat

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Depression, mood swings, trouble sleeping, usual thoughts, feelings, or behavior

  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Rectal irritation, burning, or itching

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