Wash your hands before and after. Find the small tear in the foil packet and peel the wrapper open by tearing it in half. 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 your symptoms have not improved by then, see your doctor. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms and may need a different approach.

If you miss a dose, do not double up. Just use the next one when you remember and carry on as normal.

Each suppository contains 1.3mg prednisolone hexanoate (a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness) and 1.0mg 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 over-the-counter treatments cannot shift.

The other ingredient is hard fat, which forms the base of the suppository and melts at body temperature to release the active ingredients.

Side effects are uncommon. Allergic skin reactions can occur in rare cases. Blurred vision has been reported with corticosteroid use, though this is rare at the low doses absorbed from the suppositories.

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

Who should not use them

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

Latex warning

The hard fat base in the suppositories can damage latex products such as condoms and diaphragms, which means they 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.

Storage

Store the suppositories in a fridge between 2°C and 8°C. If they soften in warm conditions, cool them in cold water before unwrapping.

Important reminders

Do not use for more than 7 days. If symptoms return after a course of treatment, see your doctor rather than repeating it on your own.

Scheriproct Suppositories are 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 Suppositories PIL