Basic Information
- Habit forming? No
- Prescription needed? Yes, for some.
- Available as generic? Yes, Dibucaine. No others, but most
brands are available without prescription.
- Drug class: Anesthetic (rectal)
Uses
- Relieves pain, itching and swelling of hemorrhoids (piles).
- Relieves pain of rectal fissures (breaks in lining membrane
of the anus).
Dosage & Usage Information
How to use:
Rectal cream or ointment--Apply to surface of rectum with
fingers. Insert applicator into rectum no farther than 1/2
and apply inside. Wash applicator with warm soapy water or
discard.
Aerosol foam--Read patient instructions. Don't insert into
rectum. Use the special applicator and wash carefully after
using.
Suppository--Remove wrapper and moisten with water. Lie on
side. Push blunt end of suppository into rectum with finger.
If suppository is too soft, run cold water over wrapper or
put in refrigerator for 15 to 45 minutes before using.
When to use:
As directed.
If you forget a dose:
Use as soon as you remember.
What drug does:
Deadens nerve endings to pain and touch.
Time lapse before drug works:
5 to 15 minutes.
Don't use with:
Any other medicine without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Overdose
SYMPTOMS:
None expected.
WHAT TO DO:
Not intended for internal use. If child accidentally swallows,
call poison-control center.
Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects
Life-threatening:
Common:
Infrequent:
- Nervousness, trembling, hives, rash, itch, inflammation
or tenderness not present before application, slow heartbeat.
- Dizziness, blurred vision, swollen feet.
Rare:
- Blood in urine.
- Increased or painful urination.
Warnings & Precautions
Don't use if:
You are allergic to any topical anesthetic.
Before you start, consult your doctor:
- If you have skin infection at site of treatment.
- If you have had severe or extensive skin disorders such
as eczema or psoriasis.
- If you have bleeding hemorrhoids.
Over age 60:
Adverse reactions and side effects may be more frequent and
severe than in younger persons.
Pregnancy:
No proven harm to unborn child. Avoid if possible.
Breast-feeding:
No problems expected.
Infants & children:
Use caution. More likely to be absorbed through skin and cause
adverse reactions.
Prolonged use:
Possible excess absorption. Don't use longer than 3 days for
any one problem.
Skin & sunlight:
No problems expected.
Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
No problems expected.
Discontinuing:
May be unnecessary to finish medicine. Follow doctor's instructions.
Others:
- Report any rectal bleeding to your doctor.
- Keep cool, but don't freeze.
Possible Interaction with Other Drugs