• Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness
  • Lidocaine provides rapid relief from pain, itching, and irritation
  • Trusted option for moderate to severe haemorrhoids 

How it works?

Online Consultation

We ask you to complete a quick and easy consultation and get you started.

Choose condition

We have a selection of treatments available for various conditions.

Express Delivery

You will have complete visibility and control of your delivery.
Notice!

Before ordering this treatment, you may have to complete an online consultation

Overview

For haemorrhoids that are especially painful or difficult to manage, Xyloproct Ointment provides strong, targeted relief. Combining hydrocortisone to shrink swelling and calm inflammation with lidocaine to numb pain and itching, it works quickly to restore comfort.

Suitable for both internal and external use, Xyloproct is often chosen when standard creams and ointments aren’t enough to control severe symptoms.

This medicine requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber, and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Xyloproct Ointment


Xyloproct Ointment is a targeted treatment for moderate to severe haemorrhoids and other painful anal conditions. Its dual-action formula combines two proven ingredients for both symptom relief and healing support:

Hydrocortisone – a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, and redness in the affected area.


Lidocaine – a well-established local anaesthetic that provides rapid relief from pain, itching, and irritation.


By addressing both the underlying inflammation and the distressing symptoms, Xyloproct Ointment offers fast and effective relief, making everyday activities like sitting, walking, and going to the toilet more comfortable. It is often recommended when stronger treatment is needed to help patients regain comfort and return to normal daily life.

Directions

  • Wash and dry the anal area before application.
  • Apply a small amount of ointment directly to the affected area 2–3 times daily or as prescribed.
  • For internal haemorrhoids, use the applicator provided.
  • Do not exceed the recommended dose, and avoid long-term use without medical advice.
  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • We store Xyloproct in a refrigerator (2°C-8°C). When you receive the product you may store it at room temperatures below 25°C for 2 months whilst in use.

Side Effects

Most people tolerate Xyloproct Ointment well, and side effects are generally mild when the treatment is used as directed. However, some patients may experience unwanted effects.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Temporary stinging, burning, or irritation at the site of application – usually mild and settles quickly after use.


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin thinning or irritation with prolonged use – hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid) can thin delicate skin if applied for long periods. Always follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions on how long to use the ointment.


Rare but serious (seek urgent medical advice):

  • Allergic reactions – particularly to lidocaine. Symptoms may include worsening redness, itching, rash, or swelling. In very rare cases, swelling of the face, lips, or difficulty breathing may occur and require immediate medical help.


Most patients find Xyloproct Ointment safe and effective, with side effects (if they occur) usually mild and temporary.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine for full details. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, stop using the ointment and seek medical advice promptly. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

Do not use Xyloproct Ointment if you:

  • Are allergic to hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or other ingredients
  • Have untreated infections in the anal area
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by a doctor


Other cautions:

  • Use short-term only unless otherwise instructed
  • Prolonged use of corticosteroids may lead to local skin damage
  • Do not exceed prescribed dosage
Frequently asked questions

  • What is Xyloproct Ointment and how does it work?

    Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) treats external haemorrhoids by combining a local anaesthetic for rapid pain relief with a mild steroid that reduces swelling and itching. It is best suited for discomfort around the outside of the anus rather than deeper internal symptoms.

  • What symptoms does Xyloproct Ointment help with?

    Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) is effective for relieving soreness, burning, itching and irritation caused by external piles. The lidocaine component provides fast numbing relief while hydrocortisone helps settle inflammation. Many people find it useful during flare-ups or after bowel movements.

  • How do I apply Xyloproct Ointment correctly?

    Apply a thin layer of Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) to the affected external area up to three times daily or as directed. Wash hands before and after use. Avoid inserting the ointment deep into the rectum unless your clinician advises this, as the product is mainly designed for external symptoms.

  • How quickly does Xyloproct Ointment work?

    Many people feel numbing relief within minutes due to the lidocaine. Reduction in swelling and itching from the hydrocortisone typically improves over a couple of days. Consistent use during flare-ups helps stabilise symptoms more effectively.

  • Is Xyloproct Ointment safe to use?

    Yes, when used short term. Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) contains a steroid, so treatment should generally be limited to seven days unless advised otherwise. Overuse can irritate or thin the skin.

  • Can I use Xyloproct Ointment during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Speak to a clinician before using Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Milder non-steroid treatments may be preferred unless symptoms are particularly uncomfortable.

  • Can Xyloproct Ointment be used with suppositories?

    Yes. Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) can be paired with a suppository for internal symptoms. This allows external pain relief from the ointment and deeper treatment from the suppository. Avoid using multiple steroid products at once without clinical advice.

  • Is Xyloproct Ointment better for external haemorrhoids than internal ones?

    Yes. Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) is formulated for external use, making it ideal for pain, itching and irritation around the anal opening. Internal symptoms usually respond better to suppositories, which reach deeper inflammation more effectively.

  • Can Xyloproct Ointment help with pain after bowel movements?

    Many people find it helpful during flare-ups triggered by bowel movements. The lidocaine in Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) offers rapid relief from soreness, while the hydrocortisone calms swollen tissue. Using gentle hygiene and increasing fibre intake can enhance results.

  • Can Xyloproct Ointment help with small skin tears (anal fissures)?

    Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) may ease pain from minor fissures due to the numbing effect, but it does not heal deeper tears or long-standing fissures. Persistent pain or bleeding should be reviewed promptly.

  • Does Xyloproct Ointment reduce swelling from prolonged sitting?

    It can help relieve swelling linked to external haemorrhoids aggravated by long periods of sitting. Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) reduces irritation and provides pain relief, making daily tasks more comfortable.

  • Can I use Xyloproct Ointment for itching without visible piles?

    Yes, if the itching is caused by inflammation around the anus. Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) can calm irritated skin, although persistent itching without piles should be assessed to rule out infection or dermatitis.

  • What should I do if Xyloproct Ointment stings when applied?

    Mild stinging can occur if the skin is very irritated. Try applying a smaller amount or switching to a soothing non-steroid product temporarily. If discomfort continues, stop use and seek advice.

  • How long can I use Xyloproct Ointment for?

    Treatment is typically limited to seven days because of the steroid content. Using Xyloproct Ointment (lidocaine, hydrocortisone) longer than advised may thin the skin or cause irritation.

  • What should I do if Xyloproct Ointment doesn’t improve my symptoms?

    If symptoms persist after a week, consult a clinician. You may need a suppository, a different ointment or investigation of other possible causes such as fissures or skin conditions.