What is Xyloproct and what is it used for?
Xyloproct is a popular remedy for piles which can target your symptoms almost immediately. Xyloproct is a short-term remedy which can stop the pain and itching associated with haemorrhoids. Applied directly to external haemorrhoids or inserted easily into the rectum, using the applicator nozzle to target discomfort caused by internal haemorrhoids. It contains three key ingredients, lidocaine, hydrocortisone, and zinc oxide, that aid in the alleviation of your symptoms.
Xyloproct Ointment is manufactured in The UK by Aspen Pharma and is classified as a prescription-only-medicine (POM). Xyloproct Ointment is available in a 20g tube, which comes with an attachable plastic applicator and a comprehensive patient information leaflet (PIL).
What are haemorrhoids?
Most people will experience some form of piles at least once in their life. The cause of this is the development of varicose veins within the rectum or surrounding areas brought about by high blood pressure in the area. The result of this is swelling around the rectum, creating irritation and itchiness. Other symptoms include pain and bleeding.
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of haemorrhoids including:
- High blood pressure
- Being overweight
- Sitting on hard surfaces for a prolonged period of time
- Extended periods of constipation
If you do experience piles, there are some things you can do to decrease their severity. If blood pressure is a key factor then lowering it can massively improve your symptoms, consider making alterations to your diet such as decreasing salt intake. If you suffer from long-term constipation then add more fibre to your diet or consider other health improvements.
In severe cases of haemorrhoids, you may be recommended treatment. Finding blood in your stools can be a key indicator for haemorrhoids and should be brought to your doctor’s attention. This will allow your doctor to prescribe medication to both reduce inflammation and decrease pain around the rectal area.
How does Proctosedyl work?
The first active ingredient contained in Xyloproct ointment, Lidocaine belongs to a group of medicines called local anaesthetics. These medicines work by blocking the pain messages along the nerve fibres. This action prevents the pain signals from reaching the brain causing a feeling of numbness in the area where the ointment has been applied to prevent pain and itching.
The second active ingredient, Hydrocortisone belongs to a category of medicines known as Corticosteroids. These medicines work to reduce and relieve pain and inflammation. Inflammation is caused by an immune response that causes blood vessels to dilate, resulting in the affected area becoming red, painful, itchy and swollen. Hydrocortisone works from within the cell, actively reducing the substances that trigger the inflammation. When Hydrocortisone is used topically to treat Haemorrhoids, it will effectively reduce the painful inflammation and swelling caused by this condition.
Zinc oxide is the final active ingredient and is a common ingredient found in many lotions and has antibacterial properties which help to soothe any areas of irritation and reduce the risk of infections.
Alternatives to Xyloproct
Xyloproct ointment can be used to help manage and treat both internal and external piles, Uniroid HC Ointment and Proctosedyl Ointment use a different type of local anaesthetic, however, is an effective alternative to this treatment. For further details on prescription-only treatments please take a look at our Advice for Haemorrhoids page.
Alternate OTC (over-the-counter) medication
There are many OTC medicines available from ourselves and your local pharmacy to buy, these may be all you need, so you should try these first before moving onto a prescription-only medication, here is a list of a couple that is commonly stocked.
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