How Do Anesthetic-Corticosteroid Combos Work?

Anesthetic/corticosteroid combos are drugs used in combination to treat piles (hemorrhoids). Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins that form inside and outside the anus and rectum. They can be painful, uncomfortable, and cause rectal bleeding.

Corticosteroids suppress inflammation at the site by decreasing the transportation of immune cells to the inflamed site.

Anesthesia temporarily numbs the inflamed area to reduce the pain associated with hemorrhoids.

Anesthetic/corticosteroid combos are used in the treatment of:

• Hemorrhoids
• Inflammation and itching associated with corticosteroid reactive inflammatory disorders
• Skin disorders
• Anal fissures

Anesthetic/corticosteroid combos may cause some side effects, which include:

• Burning
• Itching
• Dryness
• Irritation
• Secondary infection
• Hypertrichosis (a condition characterized by excessive hair growth)
• Skin maceration (occurs when the skin is in contact with moisture for too long)
• Allergic contact dermatitis (a skin rash caused by contact with a substance)
• Swelling
• Acne
• Dry, scaly skin
• Rash
• Stinging
• Pigmentation issues

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of anesthetic/corticosteroid combos include:

• Ana-Lex
• Analpram E
• Analpram HC
• AnaMantle
• Epifoam
• Hydrocortisone topical/Pramoxine topical
• Lidocaine/Hydrocortisone
• Pramosone
• Pramosone E
• ProCort
• Proctofoam HC