What Is Proctofoam-Hc? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Proctofoam-Hc is a prescription rectal foam that combines a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic to treat hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other anorectal conditions.

If your doctor has mentioned Proctofoam-Hc — or you've seen it listed as a treatment option — you probably have questions. What exactly is it? How do you use a foam applicator? How much does it cost? This guide covers everything you need to know about Proctofoam-Hc in 2026.

What Is Proctofoam-Hc?

Proctofoam-Hc is a brand-name prescription medication that comes as an aerosol foam applied rectally. It contains two active ingredients:

• Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% — a synthetic corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, itching, and swelling
• Pramoxine Hydrochloride 1% — a local anesthetic that numbs the area to relieve pain and itching

It's manufactured by Mylan Specialty L.P., a Viatris company. The medication comes in a 10g pressurized canister with a reusable applicator.

Proctofoam-Hc is not a controlled substance. It belongs to the drug class of anorectal preparations — specifically, topical corticosteroid and local anesthetic combinations.

Other brand names for similar Hydrocortisone/Pramoxine combinations include Analpram HC, Pramosone, and Epifoam, though these come in different dosage forms (cream or lotion rather than foam).

What Is Proctofoam-Hc Used For?

Proctofoam-Hc is FDA-approved to treat inflammatory and itchy (pruritic) conditions of the anal region that respond to corticosteroids. Specific uses include:

• Hemorrhoids — reduces the pain, itching, and swelling of internal and external hemorrhoids
• Anal fissures — soothes the inflammation and pain associated with small tears in the anal lining
• Proctitis — treats inflammation of the rectal lining
• Cryptitis — addresses inflammation of the anal crypts
• Other anorectal inflammation and irritation

Doctors may also prescribe it off-label for perianal dermatitis or perianal eczema.

How Is Proctofoam-Hc Taken?

Proctofoam-Hc is applied 3 to 4 times daily. Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Shake the canister vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds before each use.
2. Hold the canister upright on a flat, level surface.
3. Attach the applicator to the canister cap.
4. Pull the plunger on the applicator past the fill line.
5. Press down on the cap flanges to dispense the foam into the applicator barrel. This usually takes 3 to 4 pumps.
6. For internal (intra-anal) use: Gently insert the applicator tip into the anus and push the plunger to expel the foam.
7. For external (perianal) use: Transfer a small amount of foam onto a tissue and gently rub it onto the affected area.
8. Clean the applicator parts with warm water after each use.

Important: Do not insert the aerosol canister itself into the anus — only the applicator. Store the canister upright at room temperature (68°F to 77°F). Do not refrigerate.

Most doctors recommend using Proctofoam-Hc for no longer than 2 to 3 weeks unless they specifically instruct otherwise. Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning and other side effects.

Who Should Not Take Proctofoam-Hc?

Proctofoam-Hc is not appropriate for everyone. You should not use it if you have:

• A known allergy to Hydrocortisone, Pramoxine, or any other ingredient in the formulation
• Untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections in the area to be treated
• Tuberculosis of the skin

Use with caution if you are:

• Pregnant: Only use when clearly needed; avoid prolonged use or large amounts
• Breastfeeding: It's unknown whether the ingredients pass into breast milk — consult your doctor
• Treating a child: Children are more susceptible to systemic effects from topical corticosteroids

Always tell your doctor about your complete medical history and any other medications you're using. For details on potential interactions, see our guide on Proctofoam-Hc drug interactions.

How Much Does Proctofoam-Hc Cost?

Proctofoam-Hc is not cheap. Without insurance, the brand-name foam typically costs between $190 and $235 for a single 10g canister.

Insurance Coverage

Coverage varies significantly between plans. Some commercial insurance plans cover Proctofoam-Hc but may place it on a higher copay tier. Medicare Part D and Medicaid coverage is inconsistent — many plans don't cover it or require prior authorization. Generic Hydrocortisone/Pramoxine cream (a different dosage form) may be preferred by insurance formularies.

Generic Options

There is no widely available generic equivalent of the aerosol foam formulation. However, generic Hydrocortisone/Pramoxine cream is available, starting at approximately $41 with a coupon. If the foam formulation isn't essential, ask your doctor whether the cream version would work for you.

Ways to Save

There are several ways to reduce the cost of Proctofoam-Hc:

• Discount cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, and other providers
• The Viatris Patient Assistance Program for uninsured or underinsured patients
• Switching to a generic cream alternative

For a complete breakdown of savings options, read our guide to saving money on Proctofoam-Hc.

Final Thoughts

Proctofoam-Hc is an effective prescription treatment for hemorrhoids and other anorectal conditions. Its combination of Hydrocortisone and Pramoxine addresses both inflammation and pain in a foam delivery system that many patients find convenient.

If you've been prescribed Proctofoam-Hc and need help finding it at a pharmacy, use Medfinder to check stock near you. The medication can be hard to find, but the right tools make it easier.