Proctofoam HC in 2026: What's Going On?

If you rely on Proctofoam HC for hemorrhoid or rectal symptom relief, you've probably noticed it's been hard to find — and you're wondering if that's going to change anytime soon. The short answer: the situation is complicated, but there are things you can do right now.

In this article, we'll give you the most current information on Proctofoam availability in 2026, explain what's behind the shortage, and help you figure out your next steps.

Is Proctofoam HC Still in Shortage?

Yes, Proctofoam HC continues to face significant availability challenges in 2026. The brand-name product from Schwarz Pharma (now UCB) has been largely discontinued, and generic versions of the Hydrocortisone-Pramoxine rectal foam are produced by only a handful of manufacturers.

This isn't a traditional drug shortage where one manufacturer has a temporary production problem. The issue is more structural: very few companies make aerosol foam medications, and those that do produce them in limited quantities. The result is that Proctofoam — in both brand and generic form — is consistently difficult to find at pharmacies across the country.

Why Is Proctofoam So Hard to Find?

Several factors have contributed to the ongoing shortage:

• Brand discontinuation: The original manufacturer has largely stopped producing brand-name Proctofoam HC
• Complex manufacturing: Aerosol foam requires specialized equipment, pressurized canisters, and propellants that most generic manufacturers don't have
• Few generic makers: Limited competition means any production disruption causes widespread shortages
• Niche market: Lower patient demand compared to blockbuster drugs means less manufacturing investment

For a deeper look at these issues, read: Why Is Proctofoam So Hard to Find?

What Does Proctofoam Cost in 2026?

If you can find Proctofoam HC, be prepared for the price. Here's what patients are seeing:

• Brand-name Proctofoam HC (10 g canister): $200 to $500+ without insurance
• Generic Hydrocortisone-Pramoxine foam: $50 to $150 with a discount card
• With insurance: Copays vary widely — some plans cover it at $20-$50, while others don't cover it at all or require prior authorization

The high cost is partly due to limited competition. With fewer manufacturers, there's less price pressure. If cost is a concern, our savings guide can help: How to Save Money on Proctofoam in 2026.

Are There New Options in 2026?

While no major new foam products have entered the market specifically for rectal use, patients have more alternatives than ever:

• Pramosone Cream: Same active ingredients (Hydrocortisone 1% / Pramoxine 1%) in a cream that's much easier to find
• Anusol-HC: Hydrocortisone 2.5% rectal cream — stronger anti-inflammatory without the numbing agent
• Compounded formulations: Some compounding pharmacies can prepare custom Hydrocortisone-Pramoxine preparations
• OTC options: Preparation H Hydrocortisone for milder symptoms

Read our full comparison: Alternatives to Proctofoam.

How to Find Proctofoam in Stock

Despite the shortage, some pharmacies do have Proctofoam or its generic equivalent. Here's how to find them:

1. Use Medfinder: Medfinder.com lets you search for real-time Proctofoam availability at pharmacies near you — no more calling around
2. Try independent pharmacies: They often have access to different wholesalers and may carry specialty products that chains don't
3. Ask about special orders: Your pharmacist may be able to order Proctofoam from their distributor even if it's not normally in stock
4. Check mail-order pharmacies: Specialty and mail-order pharmacies sometimes have inventory when local ones don't

For more detailed strategies, see: How to Find Proctofoam in Stock Near You.

What to Tell Your Doctor

If you're having trouble finding Proctofoam, bring it up at your next appointment — or call your doctor's office. Here's what to ask:

• "Proctofoam isn't available at my pharmacy. Can you prescribe the generic foam or Pramosone cream instead?"
• "Would Anusol-HC or another Hydrocortisone product work for my condition?"
• "Can you write a prescription that allows for therapeutic substitution?"

Your doctor may also be able to send your prescription to a pharmacy that has it in stock. If you need help finding the right doctor, read: How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Proctofoam Near You.

Final Thoughts

The Proctofoam HC shortage in 2026 is real, but it doesn't have to leave you without treatment. Between alternative medications, compounding options, and tools like Medfinder, you have more ways to manage your symptoms than ever before.

Start by checking availability on Medfinder, talk to your doctor about alternatives, and don't settle for going untreated. Relief is out there — sometimes you just need to know where to look.