RectiCare is a line of over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams formulated to provide temporary relief from the symptoms of hemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders, such as anal itching and discomfort. The effectiveness of RectiCare comes from its use of different active ingredients, most notably lidocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the affected area. The product line offers different formulations to address specific types of relief.
What RectiCare Cream Is and How It Works
RectiCare products come in two primary versions: Anorectal Cream and Advanced Hemorrhoidal Cream, each with a distinct mechanism of action based on its ingredients.
RectiCare Anorectal Cream
This formulation's primary purpose is to provide fast-acting, high-strength pain relief. It contains 5% lidocaine, the highest strength available over the counter. As a local anesthetic, lidocaine works by blocking the pain signals sent by nerve endings in the skin, providing a powerful numbing effect that calms pain, itching, and burning. This is particularly useful for relieving intense discomfort associated with anorectal irritation.
RectiCare Advanced Hemorrhoidal Cream
This cream offers a dual-action formula that not only relieves pain but also targets the underlying swelling. It contains maximum-strength lidocaine for numbing, plus phenylephrine HCl, a vasoconstrictor. Phenylephrine tightens blood vessels in the affected area, which helps to shrink swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. This advanced formula also includes protectants like white petrolatum and mineral oil to create a protective barrier that soothes inflamed tissue and helps prevent further irritation.
Primary Uses of RectiCare Cream
RectiCare is used for the symptomatic relief of several anorectal conditions, with hemorrhoids being the most common. The cream helps manage the following symptoms:
- Pain: The lidocaine in RectiCare provides powerful numbing action to relieve severe or throbbing pain.
- Itching: It addresses the persistent and often disruptive itching caused by hemorrhoids and other irritations.
- Burning and Irritation: The soothing protectants and anesthetic ingredients calm the burning sensation and general irritation of the skin.
- Swelling (Advanced Cream Only): For those with swollen hemorrhoidal tissue, the advanced formulation with phenylephrine helps reduce the inflammation.
It is important to remember that RectiCare treats the symptoms but does not cure the underlying cause of hemorrhoids. It provides effective temporary relief while the condition naturally resolves or as other long-term lifestyle changes are implemented.
How to Properly Use RectiCare Cream
For safe and effective use, always follow the directions on the product label. General guidelines include:
- Clean the Area: Gently clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water. Pat or blot dry with a soft cloth or toilet tissue before applying.
- Apply Externally: RectiCare creams are for external use only. Use a clean fingertip or a finger cot (often included in the package) to apply a small amount of cream to the affected area.
- Do Not Insert: Do not insert RectiCare cream into the rectum using fingers or any mechanical device. The formula is not intended for internal use unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
- Frequency: For adults and children 12 years and older, apply to the affected area up to 4 to 6 times daily, depending on the specific product formulation. Always follow the maximum daily dosage instructions.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While RectiCare is generally safe when used as directed, some side effects and precautions should be noted:
- Local Reactions: Some users may experience mild and transient side effects at the application site, such as burning, stinging, redness, or swelling.
- Allergic Reactions: Stop use and consult a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction, which could include hives, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling.
- Systemic Absorption: Though rare, excessive use of lidocaine over large areas can lead to systemic absorption and more serious side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or irregular heartbeat.
- Rectal Bleeding: If you experience rectal bleeding, or if your condition worsens or does not improve within seven days, stop using the cream and consult a doctor immediately. Rectal bleeding can be a symptom of more serious conditions, including colorectal or anal cancer.
RectiCare vs. Other Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Treatments
Comparing RectiCare to other OTC options like Preparation H highlights key differences in their mechanisms of action. This table provides a quick reference.
Feature | RectiCare Anorectal Cream | RectiCare Advanced Hemorrhoidal Cream | Preparation H (Common Formulation) |
---|---|---|---|
Primary Active Ingredient | Lidocaine (5%) | Lidocaine (5%) & Phenylephrine HCl (0.25%) | Phenylephrine HCl |
Main Function | Provides numbing relief from pain, itching, and burning. | Provides numbing relief and shrinks swollen tissue. | Shrinks swollen blood vessels to reduce swelling, itching, and discomfort. |
Key Benefit | Maximum-strength numbing for fast, powerful pain relief. | Dual-action relief: numbing for pain, vasoconstrictor for swelling. | Vasoconstriction to reduce swelling for several hours. |
Primary Mode of Action | Local Anesthetic | Anesthetic & Vasoconstrictor | Vasoconstrictor |
A Note on Persistent Symptoms
While RectiCare is a highly effective treatment for temporary symptomatic relief, it is not a cure for chronic or severe hemorrhoids. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than seven days, worsen, or are accompanied by bleeding. A doctor can help rule out other, more serious conditions and recommend a long-term management plan.
Conclusion
In summary, RectiCare cream offers a potent and reliable over-the-counter solution for the discomfort of hemorrhoids and other anorectal conditions. With its active lidocaine ingredient, it provides fast, powerful numbing relief from pain, itching, and burning. The Advanced Hemorrhoidal Cream option adds phenylephrine to actively shrink swollen tissue. Used externally and as directed, RectiCare can significantly improve daily comfort and is a solution often recommended by colon and rectal surgeons. However, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for persistent symptoms or bleeding to ensure there are no other underlying health concerns.
RectiCare products are recommended by colon and rectal surgeons for temporary relief of discomfort.