What is Xyloproct Ointment?
Xyloproct Ointment is a topical treatment used to relieve discomfort caused by haemorrhoids (piles) and other painful conditions of the anal area. It contains two active ingredients: lidocaine, which provides local anaesthetic relief, and hydrocortisone, which helps to reduce inflammation.
What is Xyloproct Ointment used for?
Xyloproct Ointment is used to relieve symptoms such as pain, itching, swelling, and irritation caused by haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other inflammatory conditions in the anal area. It helps numb the area and reduce inflammation, making it easier to pass stools and feel more comfortable during recovery.
How to use Xyloproct Ointment
Xyloproct Ointment is for topical use only, which means it is applied directly to the affected area.
The recommended dose is to apply at least twice daily morning and night and after each time you go to the toilet, using up to a maximum of 6g daily (a third of the tube).
External piles: Wash the anal area with gentle soap, and dry it with a soft towel, then gently apply the cream to the affected area.
Internal piles: Wash and dry the affected area, screw the nozzle provided onto the tube and remove the nozzle cap. Insert the nozzle into the back passage and squeeze gently. Clean the nozzle after each use.
Wash your hands before and after using Xyloproct.
Use the Ointment for 5-7 days and then apply once daily for a few days after the piles have cleared.
This ointment can be used for up to 3 weeks but if the piles persist for longer than 7 days contact your doctor before continuing use.
Xyloproct is licensed for adults and children of all ages, but a doctor must choose the amount, frequency and treatment duration for the individual. Do not assume an adult application amount is appropriate for a child.
How do I know if I have piles
Symptoms of piles include:
- Bright red blood in your stools (poo)
- Bright red blood or mucus on toilet paper after you wipe
- Itchy anus
- Feeling like you still need to go after going to the toilet
- Lumps and/or pain around your anus
You can also find a picture of piles on the NHS website.
Please call 111 or contact your GP if you have piles and your temperature is very high, or there is pus leaking from your piles.
What causes piles?
There are multiple causes of piles and include:
- Straining while on the toilet
- Sitting for longer than needed on the toilet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Low-fiber diets
- Regular heavy lifting
- Constipation and diarrhoea
- Anal intercourse
Other help with piles (haemorrhoids)
Piles are lumps found inside and around the anus. Usually they will get better on their own after a few days and will not require treatment. There are ways to help treat and prevent piles, you should:
- Make sure you are drinking lots of water
- Eat plenty of fibre
- Keep your bottom clean and dry
- Have a warm bath to ease itching and pain
- Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply to the area do not directly apply an ice pack to the skin as it can cause ice burn
- Avoid foods & drinks that can cause constipation such as alcohol and process foods
- Gently push the pile back inside
- Exercise
You should not
- Wipe your bottom rough or too hard, this can break the skin and lead to piles developing
- Hold in the urge to poo
- Push too hard when pooing
- Try to avoid opioids such as codeine as they commonly cause constipation
- If you bleed do not take ibuprofen
If you do require piles treatment, there are multiple options available such as creams, ointments and suppositories, all of our treatments can be found here: Piles treatment. Performing the above alongside treatment will help to get rid of piles.
Xyloproct Ointment ingredients
Active ingredients: Lidocaine 5% and hydrocortisone acetate 0.275%. Other ingredients: Zinc oxide, aluminium acetate, stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, purified water, macrogol 3350 and macrogol 400. Cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol can cause local skin reactions, including contact dermatitis.
Xyloproct Ointment side effects
Side effects may include mild skin irritation, redness, or a burning sensation at the application site. Rarely, prolonged use can lead to thinning of the skin. If you experience severe side effects or allergic reactions, stop using the ointment and consult your doctor.
How to store Xyloproct Ointment
Store Xyloproct in a refrigerator at 2–8°C. Once you start using it, you may keep the tube below 25°C for up to two months; discard any ointment left after that time. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and do not use it after the expiry date.
How to buy Xyloproct Ointment online
You can use our online prescription service to buy Xyloproct Ointment online in the UK. We are a regulated GPhC registered pharmacy based in the UK and offer free delivery and next day delivery. Any website that claims to sell it without a prescription is operating illegally and you could be purchasing counterfeit / fake medicine.
Upon completion of your order, our independent prescriber will then review your online assessment. If your assessment is approved, our pharmacy team will then receive a prescription and dispense your order, which will be dispatched the same day using your chosen delivery method.
Who shouldn't use Xyloproct
Do not use if:
- You are allergic to any of the ingredients
- You have an infection where the ointment will be applied that is not being treated
- You have had an allergic reaction to other local anaesthetics or corticosteroid medicines
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning a baby, ask your doctor before using Xyloproct. Your doctor will decide whether it is suitable for you.
Xyloproct alternatives
There are multiple treatment options available for piles:
Interactions
Tell your prescriber about all medicines you use, including other local anaesthetics. Do not use Xyloproct at home if you take medicines for an irregular heartbeat, such as amiodarone or sotalol; ask your doctor about a suitable treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I use Xyloproct Ointment to get the best results?
To get the best results from any piles treatment you must find the cause of your piles and where possible address them while using the ointment. This will help increase the chance of successful treatment and prevent the piles coming back. Common causes of piles include but are not limited to: constipation, low-fiber diet, regular heavy lifting, pregnancy, obesity, anal intercourse, straining, constipation or diarrhoea. Make sure to use the ointment for 5-7 days and then carry on for a few days after the piles have cleared to make sure they are fully gone.
Can Xyloproct Ointment be used during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Xyloproct Ointment to ensure it is safe for you.
What is maximum length of time I can use Xyloproct Ointment for?
Do not use Xyloproct Ointment for longer than 7 days unless directed by a doctor. If symptoms persist, seek further medical advice.
Can Xyloproct Ointment be used internally?
Yes, Xyloproct Ointment can be used internally for haemorrhoids using the applicator provided. Always follow the instructions or consult your healthcare provider.
Sources and further information
- eMC: Xyloproct 5%/0.275% Ointment patient information leaflet (checked 8 September 2026)
- Xyloproct SPC
