For the symptomatic relief of haemorrhoids and pruritus ani in the short term (5-7 days).

What is Scheriproct used for?

  • Providing short-term relief (5 to 7 days) from the symptoms of piles (haemorrhoids) and anal itching.
  • Scheriproct suppositories are more suitable for treating internal piles. Scheriproct ointment can be applied to the anal area to relieve external piles and can also be inserted into the back passage using the applicator to relieve internal piles.

How does Scheriproct work?

  • Scheriproct ointment and suppositories contain two active ingredients, cinchocaine and prednisolone.
  • Cinchocaine is a type of medicine called a local anaesthetic. It works by temporarily blocking the pathway of pain messages along nerve fibres. This numbs sensation in the area where the medicine has been applied and provides relief from pain and itching.
  • Prednisolone is a type of medicine called a corticosteriod and is used for reducing inflammation.
It works by stopping cells from releasing substances that cause blood vessels to widen and result in the irritated area becoming inflamed (red, swollen, itchy and painful). When inserted into the rectum prednisolone acts locally to reduce the swelling and itching of piles.

How do I use Scheriproct?

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using Scheriproct.
  • Scheriproct suppositories: One suppository should be inserted into the rectum once a day after a bowel movement. If your piles or itching are very severe your doctor may suggest inserting one suppository up to three times a day to begin with.
  • Scheriproct ointment: A small amount of ointment should be used in the morning and at night, after a bowel movement. For severe cases your doctor may suggest using the ointment up to four times a day for the first day.
  • You can apply a pea-sized amount of the ointment thinly over the anal area using your finger, or use the nozzle supplied to insert a small amount of ointment into the back passage.
  • For application into the back passage, the nozzle provided with the ointment should be screwed onto the tube. Squeeze the tube until the nozzle is full of ointment, then gently insert the nozzle into the rectum and squeeze the tube gently. The nozzle should be withdrawn slowly. The nozzle should be thoroughly cleaned in hot soapy water after each use.
  • Don't cover the treated area with any waterproof dressings (this includes nappies if Scheriproct has been prescribed for a child).
  • Consult your doctor if your symptoms don't improve or get worse while using Scheriproct.
  • Scheriproct should not be used for longer than seven days at a time. If symptoms persist after this you should see your doctor.

Who shouldn't use Scheriproct?

  • People who are allergic to local anaesthetics.
  • People who are allergic to any ingredients of the medicine. Check the ingredients listed in the leaflet provided with the medicine if you know you have specific allergies.
  • People with a viral infection.
  • People with a fungal or bacterial infection, unless this is being treated with an appropriate anti-infective medicine.

Can I use Scheriproct while pregnant or breastfeeding?

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using Scheriproct. Corticosteroids can be absorbed into the bloodstream after application to the anus or rectum, so Scheriproct should only be used if considered essential by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Scheriproct?

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with Scheriproct. Just because a side effect is stated here doesn't mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

  • Thinning of the anal skin if used for long periods of time.
  • Allergic skin reactions. Stop using Scheriproct and see your doctor if you think you've had an allergic reaction to it.
  • If you want any more information about the possible side effects of Scheriproct you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

References:

https://www.medicines.ie/medicines/scheriproct-suppositories-33699/

https://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/digestion/a7506/scheriproct-ointment-suppositories/

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/283/smpc

https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/2136367.PPA1596_051_001.6a36d7e6-650e-4151-96ba-3e28f3a0c667.000001Scheriproct%20Ointment.130923.pdf

https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/2192716.PPA1633_018_001.888cc68b-33f2-4135-82a9-cde370c17e4e.000001Product%20Leaflet%20Approved.170809.pdf

https://www.nps.org.au/medical-info/medicine-finder/scheriproct-ointment

 

Health Reference: Hemorrhoids