Ointment

Wash your hands before and after each application. Apply a thin layer to the skin around and just inside the back passage. Spread it gently. Do not rub it in.

For internal piles, screw the applicator nozzle onto the tube. Squeeze until the nozzle fills with ointment. Insert the nozzle gently into the back passage and squeeze the tube as you withdraw it. After use, wash the nozzle in hot soapy water and rinse it well.

Apply twice a day. On the first day, you can apply it three or four times to get faster relief. Do not use it for more than 7 days.

Suppositories

Wash your hands before and after. Find the small tear in the foil and peel the wrapper open. If the suppository has gone soft from warmth, put it in cold water for a few minutes before unwrapping.

Insert the whole suppository into the back passage. It helps to stand with one foot raised on a chair, or to squat down. Use one suppository a day, preferably after a bowel movement. If the discomfort is severe, you can use one two or three times a day at the start of treatment.

Do not use for more than 7 days. If symptoms have not improved by then, see your doctor.

Missed dose

Do not double up to make up for a missed dose. Just use the next dose when you remember and carry on as normal.

Ointment

Each gram contains 1.9mg prednisolone hexanoate (a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness) and 5.0mg cinchocaine hydrochloride (a local anaesthetic that numbs pain and itching). The prednisolone in Scheriproct is more potent than hydrocortisone, so it tackles stubborn inflammation that milder treatments cannot shift.

Other ingredients include castor oil (refined and hydrogenated), macrogol-400-monoricinoleate, 2-octyldodecanol, and perfume oil (chypre).

Side effects are uncommon. Allergic skin reactions can occur in rare cases. The castor oil and perfume in the ointment may cause a skin reaction in some people. Blurred vision has been reported with corticosteroid use, though this is rare at the low doses absorbed from Scheriproct.

If your face, lips, tongue, or throat swell, or you have trouble breathing or develop a severe rash, stop using Scheriproct and get medical help straight away.

Who should not use it

Do not use Scheriproct if you are allergic to prednisolone hexanoate, cinchocaine, other local anaesthetics, or any of the other ingredients. Do not use it if you have a viral infection in the area such as herpes, shingles, or chickenpox. Do not use it if you have a bacterial or fungal skin infection that is not being treated.

Latex warning

The ingredients in both the ointment and suppositories can damage latex. This means condoms and diaphragms may not work properly during treatment. Speak with our clinician about alternative protection if this applies to you.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Scheriproct should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy, talk to our clinician before using it. They can advise on safer alternatives.

Other medicines

Some medicines that inhibit CYP3A enzymes, including ritonavir and cobicistat (used in HIV treatment), can increase the absorption of the steroid into your bloodstream. Tell our clinician about all medicines you are taking.

Important reminders

Do not use Scheriproct for more than 7 days. Do not cover the treated area with a waterproof dressing. Avoid getting it in your eyes. If symptoms return after a course of treatment, see your doctor rather than repeating it on your own, as other conditions can cause similar symptoms and may need different treatment.

Scheriproct is not right for everyone, and there are things you should know before you start. Here is all the official information. If anything is not clear, let our clinician know and they can talk it through with you.

Scheriproct Ointment PIL