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Procto Synalar N

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Procto Synalar N

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Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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.

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Overview of Procto Synalar N

Property Description
Active Ingredients Fluocinolone acetonide, Lidocaine hydrochloride
Form Rectal cream, Suppositories
Pharmacological Class Topical Corticosteroid and Local Anesthetic Combination
General Purpose Symptomatic relief of inflammation and pain
Origin Synthetic

Classification and Core Identity

Procto Synalar N is defined as a synthetic, fixed-dose Topical Corticosteroid and Local Anesthetic Combination. This formulation integrates Fluocinolone acetonide, a potent Glucocorticosteroid, with the rapid-acting Amide-type Local Anesthetic, Lidocaine hydrochloride. This dual-component approach is clinically recognized for providing comprehensive symptomatic relief in conditions characterized by both inflammation and localized sensory distress. This design is distinctive, offering a combined therapeutic action that differs inherently from monotherapy products.

Composition and Pharmaceutical Form

The medicine’s efficacy relies on the synergy between its two active ingredients. Fluocinolone acetonide is included for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antipruritic actions, properties that have been supported by pharmacological studies into local tissue responses. Meanwhile, Lidocaine hydrochloride provides immediate sensory relief by blocking nerve impulse transmission. Procto Synalar N is manufactured for topical, rectal administration, and is supplied as either a rectal cream or suppositories. These dosage forms are specifically designed to ensure high local concentration and minimal systemic absorption.

General Therapeutic Function

The principal function of Procto Synalar N is the concurrent reduction of inflammation and fast-acting localized analgesia at the site of discomfort. The formulation is primarily purposed for the immediate symptomatic relief of pain, burning, and intense itching (antipruritic effect). This dual mechanism ensures that the inflammatory response causing swelling is suppressed while the patient's acute sensory distress is simultaneously addressed, providing effective symptomatic management.

Regulatory References

  1. PROCTO-SYNALAR N CREAM - Galenica
  2. National Institutes of Health (NIH), Topical Corticosteroids
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What side effects are possible with Procto Synalar N?

Possible side effects and safety information

Official regulatory documentation classifies the primary adverse reactions associated with Procto Synalar N into local skin disorders and rare systemic effects arising from absorption.

Adverse Reaction Categories

Adverse effects are generally classified as Infrequently reported or having an Incidence not known, meaning their frequency cannot be estimated from the available data. Local reactions fall under Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders and can include burning sensation, irritation, dryness, itching, folliculitis, and hypopigmentation (skin lightening).

Other System-Organ Classes involved, particularly in cases of increased systemic exposure, include Endocrine Disorders and Nervous System Disorders.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Risk

Serious adverse reactions are primarily related to the potential for systemic absorption of the active components, which is rare but clinically significant. The corticosteroid component can lead to Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis suppression and clinical manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome. The local anesthetic component (lidocaine) may result in severe Central Nervous System and Cardiovascular toxicity, including dizziness, seizures, slow heart rate (bradycardia), hypotension, and, in severe cases, cardiac or respiratory arrest.

Safety Considerations and Constraints

Safety data emphasizes that risks are officially noted as being higher with prolonged use and in specific patient groups. Pediatric patients demonstrate greater susceptibility to systemic corticosteroid effects due to their body surface area to body weight ratio, increasing the risk of HPA axis suppression. The regulatory label advises caution when the medicine is used in the presence of pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or Cushing's syndrome.

Prolonged use of the rectal formulation increases the documented risk of local effects, such as skin atrophy (thinning), and increases the risk of systemic absorption.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Regulatory documentation outlines that overdose from Procto Synalar N results from the systemic absorption of its two active components, the local anesthetic lidocaine hydrochloride and the corticosteroid fluocinolone acetonide. This risk is primarily associated with prolonged use, excessive dosage, or application to large surface areas.

Overdose manifestations relate to the physiological systems affected by each component:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS): Systemic lidocaine toxicity is documented to include initial signs such as lightheadedness, confusion, dizziness, tinnitus, and blurred or double vision. Severe CNS effects may progress to convulsions, unconsciousness, respiratory depression, and respiratory arrest.
  • Cardiovascular and Hematologic Systems: Documented severe outcomes include bradycardia, hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse. A specific, life-threatening risk reported with local anesthetics is methemoglobinemia, characterized by cyanotic skin discoloration.
  • Endocrine System: Excessive absorption of the corticosteroid may produce features of hypercorticalism and evidence of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help:

Immediate medical attention is required for any signs of severe systemic toxicity, including the progression of CNS symptoms, difficulty breathing, or severe cardiovascular effects. Immediate treatment is also mandated for signs of methemoglobinemia to avert more serious central nervous system and cardiovascular consequences.

Management and Monitoring:

Official documents mandate close monitoring and the provision of symptomatic supportive care for suspected overdose. Pediatric patients are noted to be particularly susceptible to adrenal suppression due to their body composition, and patients with severe hepatic disease are at greater risk for toxic lidocaine blood concentrations.

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Therapeutic Uses of Procto Synalar N

What Procto Synalar N Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Procto Synalar N is commonly used to help manage symptoms related to acute episodes of hemorrhoidal disease, addressing both internal and external manifestations. It is applied when the condition is characterized by a challenging cluster of pronounced symptoms, including localized pain, burning sensation, and noticeable swelling.

The medication is also considered relevant for managing inflammatory conditions in the rectoanal region, such as anal eczema and proctitis, particularly when intense perianal itching (pruritus ani) is present. The primary therapeutic domains where Procto Synalar N is applied include hemorrhoidal disease, anal eczema, proctitis, and pruritus ani. Its use supports the management of inflammation and irritation, contributing to the easing of associated discomfort and disruptive symptoms.

It assists with managing localized pain and inflammatory responses that may arise in contexts involving heightened systemic burden. This provides support that helps improve day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods.


Quick Fact: Targets Pain, Swelling, and Intense Itching

Regulatory References

  1. NCBI Bookshelf overview of Lidocaine
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Procto Synalar N?

This section describes the official eligibility and non-eligibility information for Procto Synalar N, as stated in governmental regulatory documents.


Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

Official labeling strictly prohibits the use of this medicine for individuals with specific conditions or sensitivities:

  • Hypersensitivity: Patients who have a known history of allergy or sensitivity to any component of the preparation, including the active ingredients fluocinolone acetonide or lidocaine hydrochloride.
  • Infections and Specific Conditions: The use is contraindicated in cases of primary infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, as well as specific skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, perioral dermatitis, anogenital pruritus, and napkin eruptions.

Populations Requiring Special Consideration

Use is restricted or requires careful medical judgment for the following groups due to concerns regarding potential systemic absorption or insufficient safety data:

  • Pediatric Use: Use in children under one year of age is generally not advised. For older children, use should be limited to the least amount and shortest duration compatible with effective treatment. Occlusive dressings are prohibited in this group.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Topical corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Caution should also be exercised when the medicine is administered to a nursing woman.
  • Extent and Duration: The medicine should not be used extensively, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods of time for any patient. Use on the face should not normally extend beyond five days.
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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Procto Synalar N contains a Topical Corticosteroid (Fluocinolone acetonide) and a Local Anesthetic (Lidocaine hydrochloride), and its official interaction profile is defined by the risks associated with the potential systemic absorption of these two components.

The most clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions involve medicines that act as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Co-administration with agents such as Ritonavir or Cobicistat may inhibit the metabolism of the corticosteroid component. Regulatory documents officially state that this metabolic inhibition can lead to increased systemic exposure and potentially higher plasma concentrations of Fluocinolone acetonide.

Pharmacodynamic interactions focus on additive effects. Combining this medicine with other local anesthetics or Class I Antiarrhythmic Drugs (including agents like Tocainide) carries a formally documented risk of additive systemic toxicity from the Lidocaine component, affecting cardiac and central nervous system excitability. The corticosteroid component also contributes to an interaction: its use alongside Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin) is associated with an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture.

A population-specific interaction concern is officially noted for patients with hepatic impairment. Reduced liver function can impair the systemic clearance of Lidocaine, resulting in an increased risk of toxicity. There are no mandatory timing separation rules or formally documented interactions with food or alcohol for this product.

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Mechanism of Action

The formulation's action results from the complementary mechanisms of its two active ingredients, which involve rapid sensory signal cessation and sustained biochemical suppression of tissue responses.

Modulating Gene Expression and Anti-Inflammatory Pathways

The corticosteroid component (Fluocinolone acetonide) acts as an agonist at the Glucocorticoid Receptor inside target cells. This complex modifies gene transcription, leading to the indirect inhibition of Phospholipase A2 ( PLA2). By suppressing this key enzyme, the drug interrupts the arachidonic acid cascade, which is the primary source of pro-inflammatory mediators. This mechanism contributes to decreased vascular permeability and the modulation of the localized cellular response.

Interrupting Nociceptive Signal Conduction

The local anesthetic component (Lidocaine hydrochloride) works by physically blocking the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels ( VGSCs) on peripheral sensory nerves. By preventing the necessary influx of sodium ions ( Na^+), the drug stabilizes the nerve membrane and halts the electrical signal known as the action potential. This mechanism results in the immediate and reversible cessation of signal transmission, thereby inhibiting afferent neural conduction at the site of application.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Procto Synalar N: Official Administration Guidelines

Procto Synalar N (Fluocinolone acetonide / Lidocaine hydrochloride) is administered exclusively via the rectoanal route. Proper application technique and adherence to regulatory dosing schedules are required for use.

Administration Scope

Feature Detail
Route of Administration Rectoanal (Topical)
Approved Forms Rectal Cream (Ointment), Suppositories
Dosing Schedule Apply a small quantity or thin film
Frequency 2 to 3 times a day

Application Requirements and Constraints

Official instructions stipulate specific preparation and duration limits, which are based on the need to ensure localized effect while managing systemic exposure to the corticosteroid component. The product's use must align with the administration steps described in official regulatory documents.

Procedural Steps:

  • Preparation: The affected area must be carefully washed and dried, ideally after defecation, before application.
  • Technique: The cream/ointment is applied gently to the area. For internal use, the formulation must be applied using the special applicator (muzzle) provided.
  • Duration Constraint: Continuous treatment is generally not recommended for more than two weeks without a specialist physician's re-evaluation.

Population-Specific Rule:

  • Pediatric Exclusion: The ointment is explicitly not to be used in infants and toddlers due to insufficient data and the potential for increased systemic absorption of the active ingredients in this age group.
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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Procto Synalar N


Evidence for Use in Acute Hemorrhoidal Disease

Research has explored the use of this fixed combination, or highly similar topical steroid and anesthetic products, in conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms associated with hemorrhoidal disease. The evidence includes large-scale observational studies used in research contexts involving fluctuating or unstable symptoms. These studies, along with historical comparative trials, have been used in research exploring how symptoms change over time, focusing on outcomes related to physical discomfort and episodic or acute changes.

Studies conducted during periods of increased symptom activity generally monitored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. Researchers examined endpoints such as the severity of pain, swelling/edema, itching (pruritus), and rectal bleeding. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies.


Evidence for Use in Inflammatory Ano-Rectal Conditions

The combination was studied for use in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as anal eczema, proctitis, and chronic perianal pruritus (itching). Research in this area often relies on clinical data and reviews that support the use of the individual active components in combination. These studies focus on outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states.

Findings were consistent with observations from research on similar individual components, and evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns. Reported outcomes reflect experiences gathered over short treatment windows, typically not exceeding 2 to 3 weeks.


Long-Term Studies and Follow-up Durations

Research exploring short-term symptom changes typically involves follow-up durations that are limited. The studies monitored patient responses over defined time intervals, with the common duration for evaluation being up to 14 days (2 weeks). The research observed treatment durations that typically do not extend beyond two to three weeks of continuous application.

Because the research focuses on acute symptomatic patterns, long-term effects are not fully established. Data is limited regarding the product's influence on the recurrence rate of hemorrhoids or other conditions after the treatment period has ended.


What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

The overall evidence base for this specific fixed combination is rated as moderate. One of the main research limitation frames is the lack of current, large, definitive, placebo-controlled studies for the specific Procto Synalar N formulation. The existing data often rely on observational study designs or the extrapolation of results from similar drug combinations. Furthermore, comparative evidence is lacking to definitively understand how this product's performance patterns relate to other topical treatments.

Key Studies & References

  1. Topical Corticosteroids (NIH/NCBI Bookshelf)
  2. Lidocaine (NIH/NCBI Bookshelf)
  3. Efficacy and tolerability of fluocortolone pivalate 0.945 mg and lidocaine hydrochloride 5 mg in the treatment of acute haemorrhoids (Multicenter Study)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Procto Synalar N (FAQ)


Q: How long does it usually take to feel an effect from Procto Synalar N?

A: The local anesthetic component (Lidocaine) is known to have a rapid onset of action, which works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to provide fast sensory relief. The anti-inflammatory effect from the corticosteroid component builds up over the course of the treatment period.

Q: Can Procto Synalar N be used for skin irritations other than those mentioned in the official uses?

A: The medicine is officially indicated for the symptomatic relief of specific inflammatory and pruritic conditions of the rectoanal region, such as hemorrhoids and perianal eczema. Official regulatory documents list only the approved uses for which the product has been studied and approved.

Q: Can I use Procto Synalar N if I have high blood pressure?

A: The lidocaine component of the medicine has known effects on the cardiovascular system following systemic absorption, which can influence heart rate and blood pressure. The regulatory label does not list high blood pressure as a direct contraindication but is described as requiring caution with underlying cardiovascular conditions.

Q: Is it common to have an allergic reaction to Procto Synalar N?

A: Official documents classify the frequency of most adverse reactions as infrequently reported or having an incidence that cannot be estimated from available data. Local hypersensitivity reactions have been observed.

Q: Can older people or seniors use Procto Synalar N safely?

A: Official safety data indicates that older patients may be used with special consideration due to potential differences in metabolism and clearance that can occur with age. This caution is generally related to the lidocaine component.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally swallow a small amount of Procto Synalar N?

A: Official regulatory instructions state that the medicine is for topical use only and must not be taken by mouth.

Q: Does Procto Synalar N have any effect on blood sugar levels?

A: The corticosteroid component (Fluocinolone) can potentially cause an increase in glucose (sugar) levels in the blood or urine, particularly with extensive use. The regulatory label specifically is described as requiring caution when the medicine is used in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes.

Q: Are there warnings about using Procto Synalar N while operating machinery or driving?

A: The active local anesthetic component is associated with potential side effects involving the Central Nervous System (e.g., dizziness or confusion) if systemic absorption is significantly high. While explicit warnings about driving or machinery may not be present on the label, the potential for these CNS effects is documented.

Q: Is Procto Synalar N suitable for children or teenagers?

A: The use of this medicine is generally restricted in children and is not advised for infants and toddlers or children under one year of age. For older children, regulatory labels state use is limited to the least amount and shortest duration possible to minimize the risk of systemic absorption.

Q: Is there research evidence supporting the use of Procto Synalar N for anal fissures?

A: While anal fissures are not explicitly listed in the research summaries provided, studies have examined the medicine for use in related inflammatory ano-rectal conditions. These conditions are characterized by similar symptoms of inflammation and pain that this product is formulated to relieve.

Q: Can I use Procto Synalar N if I am taking blood thinners?

A: Regulatory pharmacology documents note that the corticosteroid component (Fluocinolone) has the potential to increase the effects of some oral anticoagulants (blood thinners). This is a potential risk related to the interaction profile.

Q: What are the most commonly reported less serious side effects of Procto Synalar N?

A: The less serious local side effects include a burning sensation, irritation, dryness, and itching. Official documents generally classify the frequency of these effects as being infrequently reported or having an incidence that cannot be estimated from available data.

Q: Is Procto Synalar N the same as the original Synalar cream?

A: Procto Synalar N is officially defined as a combination product containing two active ingredients: a topical corticosteroid (Fluocinolone acetonide) and a local anesthetic (Lidocaine hydrochloride). The original Synalar usually refers to a product containing only the corticosteroid component.

Q: Is Procto Synalar N a topical antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, or both?

A: The medicine is officially classified as a Topical Corticosteroid and a Local Anesthetic Combination. The corticosteroid component is anti-inflammatory, and the local anesthetic provides pain relief. It does not contain an antibiotic component.

Q: Are there different strengths or formulations of Procto Synalar N?

A: The medicine is manufactured in two primary dosage forms: a rectal cream (ointment) and suppositories. The strength of the active ingredients is defined for each specific formulation.

Q: What kind of evidence is available about Procto Synalar N's safety profile?

A: The overall evidence base for this specific combination is often rated as moderate in regulatory summaries. Research summaries note that data often relies on observational studies, and the long-term effects of the product are not fully established.

Q: What conditions is Procto Synalar N primarily indicated to relieve?

A: Official documents state the primary purpose is the symptomatic relief of inflammation, pain, burning, and intense itching. This is associated with conditions like hemorrhoids, perianal eczema, and other inflammatory ano-rectal conditions.

Q: Can Procto Synalar N be used at the same time as other topical creams?

A: Regulatory documents specifically note that using this medicine concurrently with other local anesthetics or Class I Antiarrhythmic Drugs may increase the risk of toxicity from the lidocaine component. The official label does not broadly address non-anesthetic topical creams.

Q: Are there studies on the long-term effects of using Procto Synalar N intermittently?

A: Research exploring the effects of the medicine has typically involved short treatment windows, usually not exceeding two to three weeks of continuous use. There is limited data available regarding the product's influence on the recurrence rate of conditions after the treatment period has ended.

Q: Is Procto Synalar N known to cause rebound symptoms after stopping use?

A: Official documents for the corticosteroid component (Fluocinolone) note that long-term continuous steroid therapy can result in the development of rebound flares after stopping treatment. This effect is a known risk associated with the class of medication it contains.

Q: Can Procto Synalar N interfere with the effectiveness of vaccines?

A: The corticosteroid component is noted to potentially interact with live vaccines. Regulatory information suggests that the risk of infection can be increased when a live vaccine is combined with this type of topical corticosteroid.

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How should Procto Synalar N be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Procto Synalar N

The official storage requirements for Procto Synalar N (fluocinolone acetonide and lidocaine hydrochloride) are established by regulatory documents to maintain the medicine's stability and integrity.


Storage Requirements

Storage Condition Official Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store below 25°C (room temperature). Do not freeze.
Container Keep the medicine in its original container and ensure it is kept tightly closed.
Child Safety Store the product out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Official guidelines state that Procto Synalar N must not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste. All unused or expired medicine must be disposed of in a manner that protects the environment, typically by returning it to a pharmacist or a local collection program for proper pharmaceutical waste management.

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

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