Can't Find Proctofoam-Hc? Here Are Your Alternatives

Your doctor prescribed Proctofoam-Hc for hemorrhoids or another anorectal condition, but your pharmacy can't fill it. Whether the issue is availability, cost, or insurance coverage, you still need relief. The good news is that several effective alternatives exist.

In this guide, we'll cover what Proctofoam-Hc is, how it works, and the best alternative medications you can discuss with your doctor.

What Is Proctofoam-Hc?

Proctofoam-Hc is a prescription aerosol foam applied to the anal area to treat pain, itching, and swelling from hemorrhoids, anal fissures, proctitis, and other anorectal conditions. It's manufactured by Viatris (formerly Mylan) and comes in a 10-gram pressurized canister with a special applicator.

The foam is applied 3 to 4 times daily and delivers two active ingredients directly to the affected area. A single canister provides at least 14 applications.

For more details, see our full guide: What Is Proctofoam-Hc? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.

How Does Proctofoam-Hc Work?

Proctofoam-Hc combines two active ingredients that work together:

• Hydrocortisone Acetate (1%) is a corticosteroid. It works by calming the immune response in the affected tissue, which reduces inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling.
• Pramoxine Hydrochloride (1%) is a local anesthetic. It blocks nerve signals in the skin, providing fast-acting numbness that relieves pain and itching.

This combination gives you both short-term numbing relief and longer-term anti-inflammatory benefits. For a deeper explanation, read How Does Proctofoam-Hc Work?

Alternative 1: Generic Hydrocortisone/Pramoxine Cream

This is the closest alternative to Proctofoam-Hc because it contains the exact same active ingredients — Hydrocortisone and Pramoxine — just in cream form instead of foam.

Key details:

• Available as a generic prescription
• Comes in cream, ointment, and lotion forms
• Sold under brand names like Analpram HC, Pramosone, and Pramosone E
• Price: As low as $41 with a coupon (compared to $190–$235 for brand-name Proctofoam-Hc)
• Applied 3 to 4 times daily, just like Proctofoam-Hc

The main difference is the delivery method. Some patients prefer the foam because it's easier to apply internally with the applicator. The cream works well for perianal (around the anus) use and can also be applied internally with a finger or applicator.

Best for: Patients who want the same medication at a fraction of the cost, or when the foam formulation is unavailable.

Alternative 2: Over-the-Counter Hydrocortisone Products

For milder hemorrhoid symptoms, OTC hydrocortisone creams and suppositories may provide enough relief. These are available without a prescription at most pharmacies and drugstores.

Key details:

• Available as creams, ointments, and suppositories
• Brands include Preparation H Hydrocortisone, Cortizone-10 Anal Itch Cream, and store-brand versions
• Contain hydrocortisone at 1% strength (same as Proctofoam-Hc)
• Price: Typically $8 to $15
• Do not contain pramoxine (no numbing effect), though some Preparation H products include other anesthetics like lidocaine

Best for: Patients with mild to moderate symptoms who don't need a prescription-strength combination product.

Alternative 3: Rectiv (Nitroglycerin 0.4% Ointment)

Rectiv is a prescription ointment with a completely different mechanism of action. It's specifically FDA-approved for anal fissures (not hemorrhoids).

Key details:

• Contains nitroglycerin, which relaxes the anal sphincter muscle and increases blood flow to promote healing
• Applied to the anal canal every 12 hours for up to 3 weeks
• Does not contain corticosteroids or anesthetics
• Price: Around $500 to $700 without insurance (significantly more expensive)
• Common side effect: headache (from the nitroglycerin)

Best for: Patients with anal fissures that haven't responded to corticosteroid-based treatments.

Alternative 4: Hydrocortisone Rectal Suppositories

For internal hemorrhoid symptoms, hydrocortisone rectal suppositories deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly inside the rectum.

Key details:

• Available as generic and brand-name (e.g., Anusol-HC)
• Contain hydrocortisone (typically 25mg per suppository)
• Inserted rectally 2 to 3 times daily
• Price: Generic suppositories start around $15 to $40 with coupons
• Do not contain a local anesthetic

Best for: Patients with internal hemorrhoids who need targeted anti-inflammatory relief inside the rectum.

How to Choose the Right Alternative

The best alternative depends on your specific condition and symptoms. Here's a quick guide:

• Same ingredients, lower cost? → Generic Hydrocortisone/Pramoxine cream
• Mild symptoms, no prescription needed? → OTC Hydrocortisone cream
• Anal fissure that isn't healing? → Rectiv (talk to your doctor)
• Internal hemorrhoids? → Hydrocortisone suppositories

Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before switching medications. They can help you find the best option based on your symptoms, medical history, and budget.

Still Looking for Proctofoam-Hc?

If you'd rather stick with Proctofoam-Hc, use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability near you. You can also read our guide on how to find Proctofoam-Hc in stock for more tips.

And if cost is a concern, don't miss our article on how to save money on Proctofoam-Hc.

Final Thoughts

Not being able to fill your Proctofoam-Hc prescription is frustrating, especially when you're dealing with painful hemorrhoid or anal fissure symptoms. But effective alternatives exist — from generic creams with the same active ingredients to over-the-counter options and other prescription treatments. Talk to your doctor about what's right for you, and use Medfinder to help track down whatever medication you need.