provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Proctozone HC Coupon - Proctozone HC 30g of 2.5% tube of cream

proctozone HC

Generic Anusol HC
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Itching, Hemorrhoids
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Itching, Hemorrhoids

Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) is a rectal steroid medication used to treat hemorrhoids and other inflammatory conditions in and around the rectum. It comes as a suppository (prescription-only) that's inserted into the rectum. It also comes as a cream (some products available OTC) that's applied to the area around the anus. Common side effects of hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) are typically short-term and they can include burning and itching.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 4, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)?

What is Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) used for?

How Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) works

Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) is a topical corticosteroid. It works by lowering the amount of inflammatory chemicals that cause redness, itching, and swelling. This helps to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids and lower rectum inflammation.

Are you looking for information on topical hydrocortisone or hydrocortisone (Cortenema) enema instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAnucort HC, Anusol HC, Hemmorex-HC
Drug ClassCorticosteroid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$86.72(save 74.00%)
GoodRx discount
$22.55
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Skin irritation
  • Dry skin

Other Side Effects

  • Inflamed hair follicles
  • Acne-like bumps
  • Changes in skin color
  • Rash or heat rash
  • Thinning skin
  • Stretch marks
  • Pruning or wrinkling of the skin
  • Hair growth

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Withdrawal symptoms: Long-term fatigue, muscle weakness, poor appetite, weight loss, belly pain

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
  • Fragile or thinning skin that bruises easily
  • Skin infection—skin redness, swelling, warmth, or pain
  • Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
  • Unexpected hair growth at application site
pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available as a lower-cost, generic medication

Works directly in the area to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids

Fewer side effects than oral steroids

thumbs-down

Cons

Need to use multiple times a day

Might raise your risk of fungal or bacterial infection

Can take weeks to relieve symptoms for rectal inflammation

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

pharmacist

  • Wash your hands before and after using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) to help prevent getting the medication in your eyes. If it does get into your eyes, wash your eyes with water or saline and contact your provider if irritation doesn't go away.

    • Before using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC), ask your provider if this medication is right for you. This is especially true if you experience rectal bleeding.

      Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) rectal suppository:

      • Before using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppository, it's best to have a bowel movement before inserting the medication rectally.

        • Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppository can stain your clothes. Consider using disposable underwear or panty liners to prevent the medication from staining your underwear.

          • Make sure to read the directions before using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppository. Remove one suppository from the strip of suppositories and take off the wrapper on the suppository. While lying on your left side with bended knees, insert the suppository slowly into the rectum with the pointed end first.

            • Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppository melts at body temperature. Considering wearing disposable gloves to avoid melting the medication.

              • After inserting hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppository into your rectum, stay in the same position for about 5 minutes to help your body absorb the medication.

                Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) rectal cream:

                • To apply hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) rectal cream inside of the rectum, first attach the perineal applicator to the tube of cream. While lying on your left side with bended knees, insert the perineal applicator and squeeze the cream into the rectum for a couple of seconds. Take out the applicator and clean it thoroughly once you're done.

                  • Don't wear tight fitting pants after applying hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC). Doing so might affect how much medication gets absorbed.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

                    How long can you use hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppositories?
                    Your provider will let you know how long you should use hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppositories based on your medical condition. If you have mild or moderate proctitis, your provider might ask you to use hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppositories twice daily for 2 weeks. But if you have more severe inflammation, they might ask you to use this medication for 6 to 8 weeks.
                    How long does hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) take to work?
                    How quickly hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) works depends on how severe your condition is. If you're using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppositories for proctitis, your symptoms might start to get better within a week, though you might need to use it for up to 2 months for the condition to heal more completely. And if you're using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) cream for hemorrhoids, you might need to apply it regularly for a week to notice improvements. If your symptoms don't go away, let your provider know. They can talk with you about other treatment options for you condition.
                    Can I buy hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) over the counter?
                    Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) 1% cream can be found over the counter. But hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) suppositories and 2.5% cream isn't available over the counter. You'll need a prescription from a provider to get these medications from the pharmacy.
                    Is hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) safe during pregnancy?
                    Discuss with your provider about the benefits and risks of using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) during pregnancy. In general, hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) 1% cream can be used during pregnancy under the guidance of your provider. But you should check with your provider before starting any prescription-strength hydrocortisone products. The safety of hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) haven't been well-studied during human pregnancy, but animal studies suggest that excessive use of steroids can cause harm to unborn babies. If you have hemorrhoids and you're concerned about safety, consider applying witch hazel pads to lower swelling and pain. You can also try to soak in warm water a couple times a day.
                    Can I use hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) while breastfeeding?
                    Talk to your provider about the benefits and risks of using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) while breastfeeding. While it's not clear whether this medication will pass into your breast milk, the risk that topical hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) will affect your breastfed baby is low. This is because topical hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) is a very low potency (strength) steroid and only a small amount of it gets absorbed into your blood.
                    GoodRxEducationalIcon

                    How to save using GoodRx

                    Compare Prices
                    1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
                    Select your free coupon
                    2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
                    Show coupon to your pharmacist
                    3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
                    Get free couponLearn more
                    warings-icon

                    What are the risks and warnings for Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)?

                    Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Hormone problems and withdrawal

                    • Risk factors: Using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) for a long period of time | Using more hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) than recommended | Covering applied area with a bandage | Young children

                      In some rare cases, using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) rectally for a long time can cause a medical condition called adrenal suppression. This is when your body stops making its own steroid hormones because of the presence of the steroid medication. And if you suddenly stop the medication, it can lead to symptoms of withdrawal include dizziness, low energy, and nausea. To prevent adrenal suppression from happening, your provider might ask you to do a rectal exam to make sure this medication is right for you. Don't suddenly stop using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) without talking to your provider first.

                      risk-warning

                      New or worsened skin infection

                      • Risk factor: Using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) for a long period of time

                        Using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) long term can raise the risk of fungal or bacterial infections. Don't use hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) if you have a skin infection because it can make your infection worse. Let your provider know if you have redness, swelling, pain, pus, or if your current symptoms don't improve after 7 days of treatment. These can be signs and symptoms of a new infection.

                        risk-warning

                        Skin problems

                        • Risk factors: Excessive and inappropriate use of hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) | Using a lot of hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

                          Using hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) longer than directed by your provider might irritate your skin, causing skin thinning, stretch marks, spider veins, burning, itching, irritation, dry skin, inflamed hair follicles, changes in skin color, or rash. To prevent severe skin reactions from happening, your provider will ask you to do a rectal exam to make sure this medication is what you need. Let your provider know right away if you notice any new or worsening skin problems.

                          dosage

                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 1 tube of 30g of 2.5% of Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) is $182.97 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 10.26% off the average retail price of $203.89.
                          suppository
                          Suppository
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          25mg12 suppositories$22.55$1.88
                          tube of cream
                          Tube of cream
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          30g of 2.5%1 tube$182.97$182.97

                          Typical dosing for Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) 25 mg rectal suppository

                          • Adults: The typical starting dose is to insert 1 suppository into the rectum twice daily. The maximum dose is 1 suppository 3 times a day or 2 suppositories twice daily. Each suppository contains 25 mg of hydrocortisone.

                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) rectal cream

                          • Hydrocortisone 1% (people ages 12 years and older): Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) 2 to 4 times daily.

                          • Hydrocortisone 2.5% (adults): Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) 3 to 4 times daily.

                          drug-cost

                          How much does Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) cost?

                          To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                          Anusol HC (brand)
                          GoodRx lowest price

                          $22.55

                          (save 88.94%)
                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) (generic)
                          GoodRx lowest price

                          $22.55

                          (save 74.00%)
                          View prices & coupons
                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)
                          Used for:
                          $22.55 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Cortifoam (hydrocortisone)
                          Used for:

                          • Add-on treatment for ulcerative proctitis

                          $454.74 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Hydrocortisone (Cortenema)
                          Used for:
                          $46.15 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          images

                          Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) images

                          This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.
                          This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.

                          Get savings updates for Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC)

                          Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Hydrocortisone (Anusol-HC) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                          By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). What can I do for hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

                          Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2023). Anucort-HC- hydrocortisone acetate suppository [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2021). Hydrocortisone, topical. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

                          View All References (7)

                          GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC. (2022). Preparation H soothing relief anti-itch- hydrocortisone cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Lam, L. H., et al. (2016). Adrenal suppression with chronic topical corticosteroid use in psoriasis patients. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

                          MedlinePlus. (2017). Hydrocortisone rectal.

                          National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2018). Symptoms & causes of adrenal insufficiency & Addison's disease.

                          National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2021). Proctitis.

                          Nivagen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2023). Hydrocortisone acetate- hydrocortisone acetate suppository [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. (2023). Proctozone-HC- hydrocortisone 2.5% cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                          Was this page helpful?

                          Browse medications

                          View All

                          Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.