Learn about Proctofoam-Hc drug interactions, including other corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and OTC products to avoid while using this rectal foam.
Proctofoam-Hc is a topical rectal foam, which means it's applied directly to the affected area rather than taken by mouth. Because of this, it has far fewer drug interactions than oral medications. But "fewer" doesn't mean "none." There are still some medications, supplements, and products you should be aware of before using Proctofoam-Hc.
This guide covers the known and theoretical interactions, what to avoid, and what to tell your doctor before starting treatment.
Drug interactions happen when one medication affects how another works — either by increasing side effects, reducing effectiveness, or causing unexpected reactions.
With topical medications like Proctofoam-Hc, the risk of systemic drug interactions is much lower than with oral drugs. The medication is applied locally, and only small amounts are absorbed into the bloodstream under normal use. However, if Proctofoam-Hc is used over a large area, for a long period, or with an occlusive dressing (something that seals the area), absorption increases — and so does the potential for interactions.
Using Proctofoam-Hc at the same time as other topical corticosteroid products in the same area increases the risk of excessive corticosteroid absorption. This can lead to:
Common topical corticosteroids to watch out for include Hydrocortisone cream (even OTC versions like Cortaid or Cortizone-10), Triamcinolone (Kenalog), Betamethasone (Diprolene), and Clobetasol (Temovate). If you're using any corticosteroid cream, ointment, or foam in the perianal area, tell your doctor before adding Proctofoam-Hc.
Hydrocortisone — even when applied topically — has a mild immunosuppressive effect on the treated area. If you're already taking systemic immunosuppressant medications, there's a theoretical risk of additive immunosuppression with prolonged topical corticosteroid use. Medications in this category include:
This interaction is primarily a concern with prolonged or extensive use of Proctofoam-Hc, not standard short-term treatment. However, if you take any of these medications, your doctor should know.
Since Proctofoam-Hc already contains Pramoxine Hydrochloride 1%, using additional Pramoxine-containing products (such as Sarna Anti-Itch lotion or Caladryl Clear) in the same area could increase the risk of localized reactions. While not dangerous, it's generally unnecessary.
This is the most common overlap. Many people use OTC hemorrhoid treatments containing Hydrocortisone (such as Preparation H Hydrocortisone or generic 1% Hydrocortisone cream) before receiving a Proctofoam-Hc prescription. If you've been using these products, stop using them once you start Proctofoam-Hc to avoid doubling up on corticosteroids in the same area.
Products like Tucks pads (containing Witch Hazel) are generally safe to use alongside Proctofoam-Hc for cleaning the area. However, some medicated wipes contain additional active ingredients like Hydrocortisone or anesthetics. Check the label and avoid wipes that duplicate Proctofoam-Hc's active ingredients.
There are no well-documented interactions between Proctofoam-Hc and herbal supplements. Since the medication is applied topically and has minimal systemic absorption, supplements like turmeric, fish oil, or fiber supplements are not a concern.
There are no known food or drink interactions with Proctofoam-Hc. Because it's a topical medication applied rectally, what you eat or drink doesn't affect how the drug works.
That said, your diet can affect the underlying condition. If you're being treated for hemorrhoids, your doctor may recommend increased fiber and water intake to soften stools and reduce straining — not because of a drug interaction, but to support healing.
Before your doctor prescribes Proctofoam-Hc, make sure they know about:
If you forget to mention something before starting treatment, it's never too late to call your doctor or pharmacist. They can advise you on whether any adjustments are needed.
If you take oral or injected corticosteroids — such as Prednisone, Methylprednisolone (Medrol), or Dexamethasone — adding topical Hydrocortisone from Proctofoam-Hc could theoretically contribute to a higher overall corticosteroid load. This is mainly relevant for patients already on high-dose systemic steroids. Let your doctor know if you're taking any oral steroids.
Proctofoam-Hc has a relatively low risk of drug interactions compared to oral medications. The main things to watch for are other topical corticosteroids in the same area and immunosuppressant medications with prolonged use. Beyond that, the biggest risk is simply duplicating ingredients you may already be using in OTC hemorrhoid products.
When in doubt, bring all your medications — including OTC creams and supplements — to your doctor's appointment or tell your pharmacist what you're using. They can identify any potential issues.
For more about this medication, see our guides on what Proctofoam-Hc is, side effects, and how to save money on your prescription. Need help finding it? Use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability.
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