If You've Been Searching for Proctofoam, You're Not Alone

If you've recently walked into your pharmacy with a prescription for Proctofoam HC only to hear "we don't have it in stock," you're far from the only one. Patients across the country have been struggling to fill their Proctofoam prescriptions for months — and in some cases, years.

Whether you're dealing with hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other rectal irritation, being told your medication isn't available is incredibly frustrating. In this article, we'll explain exactly why Proctofoam HC is so hard to find in 2026 and give you practical steps to get the relief you need.

What Is Proctofoam HC?

Proctofoam HC is a prescription aerosol foam that combines two active ingredients: Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% (a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching) and Pramoxine Hydrochloride 1% (a local anesthetic that numbs pain). It's applied to the anal and perianal area to treat conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other forms of rectal irritation.

The foam formulation is what makes Proctofoam unique. Unlike creams or suppositories, the aerosol foam is easier to apply, spreads more evenly, and many patients find it more comfortable to use. It's typically applied 3 to 4 times daily using a special applicator that comes with the canister.

You can learn more about this medication in our complete guide: What Is Proctofoam? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.

Why Is Proctofoam HC So Hard to Find?

There are several reasons why Proctofoam has become one of the harder medications to locate at your local pharmacy. Let's break down the main factors.

1. The Brand-Name Product Has Been Largely Discontinued

Proctofoam HC was originally manufactured by Schwarz Pharma, which was later acquired by UCB. Over the years, the brand-name product has been phased out or produced in very limited quantities. When a brand-name manufacturer stops making a drug, it often creates a ripple effect across the entire supply chain.

2. Aerosol Foam Is Difficult to Manufacture

Unlike a simple cream or ointment that many generic manufacturers can produce, an aerosol foam requires specialized equipment and manufacturing processes. The product needs pressurized canisters, propellants (isobutane and propane), and precise formulation to ensure the foam dispenses correctly. This means fewer manufacturers are willing or able to make generic versions.

3. Limited Generic Competition

Because of the manufacturing complexity, there are very few generic manufacturers producing Hydrocortisone-Pramoxine rectal foam. With limited competition, any production issue at even one manufacturer can lead to widespread shortages. Compare this to a common pill medication where dozens of generic makers exist — with Proctofoam, the supply chain is much more fragile.

4. Low Demand Relative to Other Medications

Proctofoam serves a niche patient population. Pharmaceutical companies prioritize manufacturing medications with higher demand and larger profit margins. A specialty rectal foam simply doesn't generate the same revenue as blockbuster drugs, which means it gets less investment in production capacity.

For the latest information on availability, check our Proctofoam shortage update for 2026.

What You Can Do If You Can't Find Proctofoam

The good news is that you have options. Here's what we recommend:

Use a Real-Time Pharmacy Finder

Medfinder helps you search for Proctofoam HC availability at pharmacies near you in real time. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, you can check stock from your phone or computer. This is often the fastest way to locate hard-to-find medications.

Call Independent and Compounding Pharmacies

Big chain pharmacies tend to carry the most commonly prescribed medications. Independent pharmacies and compounding pharmacies often have more flexibility in their ordering and may be able to source Proctofoam or compound a similar formulation. Don't limit your search to just CVS or Walgreens.

Ask Your Doctor About Alternatives

If Proctofoam is truly unavailable in your area, your doctor can prescribe an alternative. Options include Pramosone (same active ingredients in cream form), Anusol-HC (Hydrocortisone rectal cream), or Preparation H Hydrocortisone (available over the counter). While these aren't identical to Proctofoam's foam formulation, they contain similar active ingredients and can provide relief.

We cover alternatives in detail here: Alternatives to Proctofoam If You Can't Fill Your Prescription.

Ask Your Pharmacist to Order It

Sometimes your pharmacy can special-order Proctofoam from their wholesaler. It may take a few days, but if the product is available through their distributor, they can get it for you. Ask the pharmacist to check their ordering system.

Look Into Savings and Assistance Programs

If cost is also a barrier, discount programs through GoodRx or SingleCare may help lower the price. You can also check our guide to saving money on Proctofoam for more options.

Final Thoughts

Proctofoam HC is hard to find in 2026 because of a combination of manufacturer discontinuation, complex aerosol foam manufacturing, limited generic competition, and niche market demand. But that doesn't mean you're out of options.

Start by searching for Proctofoam on Medfinder to check real-time pharmacy availability near you. If it's not available, talk to your doctor about alternatives and explore independent pharmacies in your area.

You deserve relief — and with the right tools and information, you can find it.