Sediproct

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Sediproct

Method of action: Antihemorrhoidal

Treatment option: Anal Itch, Pain, Jock Itch

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Sediproct

What Type of Medicine is Sediproct?

Sediproct is a prescription-only, dual-action combination product formulated for topical rectal administration. Pharmacologically, it is classified as a mixture of a Local Anesthetic and a Corticosteroid, providing a targeted dual therapeutic mechanism. This combination is designed for managing localized pain and inflammation simultaneously, a characteristic that distinguishes it from treatments relying on a single class of agents. The preparation is developed to ensure concentrated delivery of both active components directly to the affected tissues.

Composition: Cinchocaine, Hydrocortisone, and Available Forms

The medication's therapeutic profile relies on the actions of Cinchocaine and Hydrocortisone. Cinchocaine (also known as Dibucaine) is a long-acting Local Anesthetic included to interrupt nerve signal transmission and produce localized numbness. Hydrocortisone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, functions as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce swelling and associated localized irritation. The combination of these components is specifically intended for the relief of symptoms. Sediproct is provided in two forms suitable for targeted application: rectal suppositories and a rectal ointment, allowing for delivery based on the location of the discomfort.

Primary Purpose and Dual-Action Benefit

The primary purpose of Sediproct is to offer symptomatic relief from the discomfort, pain, and inflammation associated with anorectal conditions. The dual mechanism of the product eases discomfort: the Cinchocaine provides local analgesia, while the Hydrocortisone reduces underlying tissue irritation and associated swelling. This design ensures that the medication addresses both the painful sensation and the physical irritation, serving as an option for targeted symptom management.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH: Hydrocortisone Rectal

What side effects are possible with Sediproct?

Possible side effects and safety information

The official safety information for Sediproct (Cinchocaine and Hydrocortisone) is organized around expected local reactions and potential systemic effects from the corticosteroid component.


Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Description based on Official Regulatory Documents
Key adverse reaction categories Local reactions, dermatological effects, and potential systemic effects on endocrine and eye systems.
Frequency classification Effects such as Blurred Vision, Urticaria, and Adrenal Suppression are often classified as Not Known (frequency cannot be estimated from available data).
System-organ classes involved Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders (irritation, atrophy), Endocrine Disorders (adrenal suppression), and Eye Disorders (visual disturbance).
Serious adverse reactions Adrenocortical Suppression and the risk of Secondary Infections being masked or worsened are documented as serious concerns, particularly with prolonged use.

Time- and Population-Related Safety

Adverse effects are sometimes related to the duration of use. A mild burning sensation or irritation may be experienced transiently at the start of treatment. Conversely, long-term continuous use is associated with an increased risk of localized skin atrophy (thinning) and systemic effects like adrenocortical suppression.

Specific safety considerations exist for Infants and Children, where long-term continuous therapy is restricted due to the potential for growth retardation and systemic corticosteroid effects. Use during Pregnancy and Lactation should also be avoided extensively due to potential systemic absorption.


Regulatory Safety Limitations

Use is formally contraindicated in the presence of untreated infections, including viral, fungal, or tuberculous infections, as stated in official labeling. Furthermore, co-treatment with CYP3A inhibitors is noted to increase the risk of systemic side effects due to increased exposure to Hydrocortisone. The possibility of the excipient base in suppositories reducing the effectiveness of latex products is also documented.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with Sediproct is generally not associated with a single acute ingestion, but rather with overuse, misuse, or prolonged application that allows the active substances to be absorbed into the body’s circulation. This systemic absorption can lead to adverse effects related to both the corticosteroid and the local anesthetic components.

Documented Overdose Risks

Active Component Potential Systemic Risk
Hydrocortisone (Corticosteroid) HPA Axis Suppression (Adrenal Gland Function)
Lidocaine/Cinchocaine (Local Anesthetic) Central Nervous System (CNS) and Cardiovascular System (CVS) Toxicity

Emergency Actions and Medical Help

The primary danger from overdose is the potential for serious Central Nervous System and Cardiovascular toxicity arising from the systemic absorption of the local anesthetic component. Systemic effects of the corticosteroid may also lead to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression.

Immediate medical help is required if any signs or symptoms of systemic absorption occur. Treatment should be discontinued immediately, and emergency medical services must be sought for supportive management and clinical evaluation.

Therapeutic Uses of Sediproct

Quick Facts

  • Relief Domain: Used to address discomfort associated with the anal area.
  • Primary Indications: Indicated for managing symptoms of hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
  • Therapeutic Effects: May support the temporary reduction of localized pain, itching, and swelling.

What Sediproct Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Sediproct is a prescription therapy used for the temporary management of uncomfortable symptoms related to conditions affecting the anal area. The medication is indicated for use in the context of hemorrhoids and anal fissures, which can cause significant local distress. The therapeutic goal is to support the resolution of acute flare-ups and provide a favorable therapeutic profile for patient comfort.

It works to temporarily relieve minor pain, soreness, and itching by providing a localized numbing effect. Additionally, the medication may help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected tissues. Its uses are generally confined to providing symptomatic relief and supporting the comfort of the patient during healing processes.

For comprehensive guidance on the approved indications and appropriate use of this combination medication, patients should consult professional guidance. It is important to adhere strictly to the regimen determined by a healthcare provider.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility: Who Can and Cannot Use Sediproct?

Eligibility for Sediproct (a combination of a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic) is strictly defined by regulatory contraindications and population-specific restrictions to minimize the risk of systemic absorption and local complications. These rules are based on official government regulatory documents (e.g., FDA, EMA).


Absolute Non-Eligibility (Contraindications)

Condition/Population
Known hypersensitivity or allergy to any active substance or excipient.
Specific Infections at the application site, including viral diseases (e.g., Herpes, Shingles), Tuberculosis, or Syphilis.
First Trimester of Pregnancy (explicitly stated for some formulations).

Restricted or Conditional Use

Population/Limitation
Infants and Children: Use is not established or contraindicated under specific ages (e.g., under 12 years) due to increased systemic absorption risk.
Pregnancy/Lactation: Use is not recommended unless considered essential by a physician, due to potential risks from systemic absorption.
Duration: Use is restricted to short-term treatment only (e.g., typically no more than four weeks). Prolonged or extensive use is forbidden due to the risk of systemic side effects like adrenal suppression.
Infections: Must not be used for bacterial or fungal infections unless the infection is being simultaneously treated with an appropriate anti-infective agent.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Sediproct is a medicinal product containing a corticosteroid (such as hydrocortisone) and a local anesthetic. While the primary action is local, systemic exposure to the corticosteroid component may occur, especially with prolonged use, high doses, or application to inflamed or damaged mucosa. This systemic exposure is the main basis for documented interactions.

Pharmacokinetic Interactions

The most significant interaction involves medicines that affect the metabolism of the corticosteroid component. The corticosteroid is primarily metabolized by the Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system in the liver.

  • CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Co-administration with strong inhibitors of the CYP3A4 enzyme, such as Ritonavir and Cobicistat (used in certain HIV treatments), is expected to reduce the clearance of the corticosteroid. This can lead to increased systemic plasma concentrations and an elevated risk of systemic corticosteroid adverse effects, including Cushing's syndrome and HPA axis suppression. The concurrent use of these strong inhibitors should generally be avoided unless the benefit outweighs the risk, and patients must be closely monitored for systemic effects.

Other Potential Interactions

Other medicines, including Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital) and Rifampicin (a strong CYP3A4 inducer), may increase the metabolism of the corticosteroid, potentially reducing its local efficacy. However, the clinical relevance of this effect for a rectally applied product is considered lower but should be noted in long-term therapy.

Mechanism of Action

How Sediproct Works

Sediproct components act locally via specific receptor binding and modulation of cellular signaling, targeting both inflammatory and nociceptive cascades.

Fluocinolone Acetonide

Fluocinolone acetonide, a synthetic glucocorticoid, directly inhibits phospholipase A2 ( PLA2) activity within target cells. This enzyme inhibition prevents the liberation of arachidonic acid from membrane phospholipids, which subsequently limits the biosynthesis of downstream eicosanoid mediators. This action further modulates the release of stored mediators from mast cells and reduces localized capillary permeability.

Lidocaine Hydrochloride

Lidocaine hydrochloride functions as a reversible, voltage-gated sodium channel blocker on neuronal membranes. By interfering with the rapid inward flux of sodium ions, it stabilizes the resting membrane potential and interrupts the generation and conduction of nerve impulses. This interruption of signal propagation results in a localized, reversible loss of sensation within the targeted tissue.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Sediproct: Official Administration Guidelines

Sediproct (Cinchocaine and Hydrocortisone) is a combination product intended for short-term, localized use. The product's usage pattern is defined by its route, frequency, and limited duration, as specified in the labeled instructions.


Administration Scope

Instruction Detail
Route of administration Rectal (intrarectal and perianal/topical application).
Dosing schedule Typically one suppository or a small quantity of ointment per dose. Frequency may be temporarily increased for severe initial symptoms.
Preparation requirements The application area should be cleaned and dried before use. Suppositories that have softened can be hardened in cold water prior to handling.
Age-group administration rules Long-term continuous therapy is discouraged in infants and children. Use during pregnancy or lactation must be considered essential by a physician.
Missed-dose rules If a dose is missed, the patient should not double the dose to compensate.
Special procedural conditions The total duration of treatment is generally limited and should not exceed 7–10 days. Administration is generally timed to occur after a bowel movement.

Instruction Classifications

Classification Detail
Administration method type Topical/Rectal (Local administration)
Frequency pattern Twice daily (Morning and Evening) with as-needed supplementation after elimination, up to a maximum frequency.
Use-context constraints Limited duration and specific timing in relation to elimination processes.

Connection to the Overall Use Protocol

The official use protocol for Sediproct is defined by its short-term nature and local route of administration. The instructions specify a twice-daily frequency supplemented by contextual use after elimination, which is designed to govern the appropriate logistical pattern of use without providing clinical justification.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Sediproct

Evidence for Symptomatic Hemorrhoidal Disease

Research exploring the Cinchocaine and Hydrocortisone combination was studied for its use in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, particularly symptomatic hemorrhoidal disease. Short-term randomized studies research examined how symptoms evolved in adult populations experiencing acute, localized discomfort. These studies monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort related to physical discomfort, such as pain intensity, itching, and local swelling.

Findings describe the measured outcomes observed during the study period over the short treatment period. Research highlights the nature of measurements taken during the study period concerning localized symptoms. Research reports measurements observed in pain scores and the reporting of discomfort by patients. However, much of the comparative evidence is limited because it often involves other active treatments rather than an inert placebo, a common research limitation.

Evidence for Symptomatic Relief of Anal Fissures

Research has explored the combination for conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms, such as the localized pain and irritation associated with anal fissures. Evidence for this use is often derived from studies of the component drug classes—the local anesthetic and the corticosteroid—rather than dedicated, large-scale studies focused on the specific combination product.

The studies explored outcomes related to physical discomfort, primarily focused on local pain intensity and the duration of the anesthetic component's observed presence in the patient-reported experience. Research describes patterns related to patient-reported outcomes for acute pain, but the data largely consists of observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning and clinical experience summaries.

Key Research Gaps and Remaining Uncertainty

Follow-up durations were limited in most key studies, providing little information on the long-term management of conditions involving cycles of stability and flare-ups. This means long-term effects are not fully established. Furthermore, comparative evidence is lacking for many direct comparisons, especially head-to-head trials against a placebo for the specific fixed Cinchocaine/Hydrocortisone combination. Subgroup findings are uncertain, meaning research does not determine whether an individual with unique circumstances will respond similarly to the group patterns described.

Key Studies & References

  1. SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS (SPC) for a Cinchocaine/Hydrocortisone Combination (Authoritative Regulatory Document)
  2. Topical corticosteroid therapy in proctology indications (Review discussing the role of local anesthetics and corticosteroids in anorectal diseases)
  3. Hydrocortisone Rectal: MedlinePlus Drug Information (Informs on steroid component use in proctitis/inflammatory conditions)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Sediproct (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Sediproct start to relieve pain or itching?

Sediproct contains a local anesthetic component (Cinchocaine). This component is designed to provide localized relief from pain and itching by temporarily interrupting nerve signals.


Q: What happens if you stop using Sediproct suddenly?

Sediproct is prescribed for short-term use. Because it contains a corticosteroid, prolonged or extensive use is discouraged due to the potential risk of systemic effects, such as affecting the adrenal glands. If a long-term course has been used, discontinuation should be discussed with a healthcare professional.


Q: What if I forget to apply a dose of Sediproct?

According to the official product information, if a dose is missed, a double dose should not be taken to compensate. Patients are advised to continue with the next scheduled application time, following their usual dosing schedule.


Q: Does Sediproct treat the cause of hemorrhoids or just the symptoms?

Sediproct is indicated for the symptomatic relief of discomfort. The combination of a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic works to reduce symptoms like pain, swelling, and inflammation. It relieves these symptoms but does not address the underlying vascular cause of conditions like hemorrhoids.


Q: What is the expected outcome after completing a Sediproct course?

The treatment is designed to provide relief from the acute symptoms of pain, itching, and inflammation. The intended outcome is relief from these acute symptoms. If symptoms persist or return after the course is complete, further evaluation by a healthcare provider may be appropriate.


Q: Can Sediproct be used for anal fissures?

Official labeling indicates that Sediproct is suitable for managing various anal lesions. These include anal fissures (small tears in the lining of the anus), proctitis (inflammation of the rectum lining), and incomplete fistulas, in addition to hemorrhoids.


Q: Can using Sediproct make the condition worse if used incorrectly?

The product is contraindicated if there is an untreated infection (such as a viral, fungal, or bacterial infection) at the application site. The corticosteroid component may mask the signs of an existing infection or potentially allow an infection to spread or worsen if it is not being treated simultaneously with an appropriate agent.


Q: Does Sediproct need to be refrigerated?

Storage requirements differ based on the product form. Rectal suppositories typically require storage in the refrigerator at low temperatures (between 2 C and 8 C). The rectal ointment is generally stored at room temperature, below 25 C. Specific storage instructions should always be confirmed on the product packaging.


Q: Can I use other creams or ointments at the same time as Sediproct?

Official information advises that the application area should be clean and dry before use. Consultation with a healthcare professional is generally recommended before using Sediproct concurrently with other topical products, as combined use may increase the risk of systemic absorption or alter effectiveness.


Q: Is it normal to see some discharge after using Sediproct suppositories?

The base used in suppositories is designed to melt after insertion to release the active ingredients. Some release of the melted, inactive base from the rectum may occur after insertion.


Q: Why do some people experience drowsiness after using some anal suppositories, and is that true for Sediproct?

Drowsiness or central nervous system effects are not listed as common side effects for Sediproct in the official documentation. Systemic absorption of the local anesthetic (Cinchocaine) is possible, but significant central effects are considered unlikely when the product is used correctly and within the recommended short duration.


Q: What is the shelf life of an unopened tube of Sediproct?

The shelf life of the unopened product is defined by the expiration date printed directly on the packaging, tube crimp, or blister pack. This date dictates the period during which the product is guaranteed to maintain its stated potency.


Q: What is the purpose of the applicator that sometimes comes with the Sediproct tube?

The applicator is included to facilitate the hygienic and safe intrarectal application of the ointment. It is intended to ensure the ointment is delivered effectively to the affected area inside the rectum for treating internal hemorrhoids.


Q: Does the brand name 'Sediproct' contain the same ingredients as the generic version?

All officially approved generic versions of this medicine must contain the identical active ingredients (Cinchocaine and Hydrocortisone) in the same strength as the brand-name product. However, the inactive ingredients, such as preservatives or the ointment base, may differ between brand-name and generic products.


Q: Is the petrolatum in the ointment safe for the sensitive area?

Petrolatum is a commonly used, non-active base ingredient (excipient) in many topical and rectal ointments, including this one. As an approved excipient, it is generally accepted as safe for the intended topical application.


Q: Does the efficacy of Sediproct decrease over time?

Sediproct is a short-term treatment. It is not intended for long-term chronic use. Continuous, extended use is not recommended and should be avoided due to the increased risk of localized side effects and potential systemic effects from the steroid.


Q: Can Sediproct be used on external hemorrhoids only?

Yes, the ointment formulation can be applied directly to the perianal area for the treatment of external hemorrhoids. The product is suitable for both external topical application and internal rectal application using the applicator.


Q: What should I do if I accidentally swallow a small amount of Sediproct cream?

In the event of accidental ingestion, especially of a significant quantity, medical assistance should be sought immediately. The primary safety concern is the amount of local anesthetic (Cinchocaine) that may have been swallowed.


Q: Can Sediproct be used for non-hemorrhoidal itching?

Sediproct is indicated for the treatment of conditions like hemorrhoids and fissures that involve localized itching and pain. It should only be used for the conditions explicitly listed in the authorized indications, and any use beyond the approved indications should be reviewed by a healthcare provider.


Q: Can Sediproct be used if I have a known sensitivity to parabens?

The complete list of inactive ingredients, including preservatives like parabens, is available in the official Patient Information Leaflet. For individuals with known sensitivities, it is necessary to check the specific inactive ingredient list on the product packaging before use.


Q: What are the inactive ingredients found in Sediproct?

The inactive ingredients (also called excipients) vary depending on the product form (ointment or suppository) and the specific manufacturer. The full, detailed list is included in the product's official Patient Information Leaflet and on the packaging.

How should Sediproct be stored and disposed of?

Regulatory documents define mandatory storage conditions for this combination product (corticosteroid and local anesthetic) based on its form:

  • Rectal Ointment: Must be stored below 25 C. Once the tube is opened, the product must be discarded after 4 weeks (or 3 months, depending on the specific regulatory labeling).
  • Rectal Suppositories: Must be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature range of 2 C to 8 C and must not be frozen.

All forms of the medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Requirements

Official instructions stipulate that the product must not be disposed of in household trash or via wastewater. Patients must consult a pharmacist for guidance on how to correctly dispose of any unused or expired product according to local pharmaceutical waste regulations.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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