Lidocaine for piles and itchy bottom

Common Brand Names

 Anusol (combination product)

Overview

Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic that numbs the area where you use it. It's used in some medicines to treat:

• piles (haemorrhoids) inside or around your bottom (anus)
• itchy bottom

These treatments do not cure piles but they can help with the pain and itching.

Lidocaine treatments for piles come as creams, ointments, sprays and suppositories. You can buy them from a pharmacy.

Some treatments contain lidocaine mixed with a corticosteroid like hydrocortisone. If you're using hydrocortisone treatments for piles, check the leaflet that comes with your medicine as the instructions are different.

There are different types of lidocaine for other conditions, including medicated plasters, injections and gels.

Important Facts

• Lidocaine treatments are used in different ways. Some creams and ointments are for internal use inside your bottom (anus) only, while others go on your skin. Always check the instructions.
• You'll generally use lidocaine for piles or itchy bottom several times a day – first thing in the morning, last thing at night and every time you poo.
• It works quickly and you should start to feel better within 1 hour.
• Most people do not have any side effects from lidocaine for piles or itchy bottom. You might get a burning feeling when you first put it on, but this only lasts a few minutes.
• Do not use lidocaine for longer than recommended. The local anaesthetic can make your skin sensitive over time or if you use it for too long.