Generic name: Glycerin and Lidocaine [ GLIS-er-in-& LYE-doe-kane ]
Brand names: Preparation H, RectiCare
Drug class: Topical anesthetics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 2, 2024.

Uses of Preparation H:

• It is used to treat signs of hemorrhoids or rectal irritation.

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Preparation H?

• If you have an allergy to lidocaine or any other part of Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine).
• If you are allergic to Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine); any part of Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Preparation H?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Do not use Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) for longer than you were told by your doctor.
• This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
• Do not give Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) to a child younger than 12 years old without first checking with the doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) while you are pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.

How is this medicine (Preparation H) best taken?

Use Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) by mouth.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Put Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) on as you have been told by the doctor or on the package labeling.
• Do not put Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) into the rectum by using your fingers or any type of applicator. Follow what the doctor has told you to do.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• If you use Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) on a regular basis, put on a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not put on 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
• Many times Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) is used on an as needed basis. Do not use more often than told by the doctor.

Related/similar drugs

gabapentin, acetaminophen, tramadol, cyclobenzaprine, hydroxyzine, naproxen, pregabalin, oxycodone, Tylenol

What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Bleeding from rectum or rectal pain.
• Redness.
• Swelling.
• Irritation where Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine) is used.

What are some other side effects of Preparation H?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Preparation H?

• Store at room temperature.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

• If your symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your doctor.
• Do not share your drugs with others and do not take anyone else's drugs.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions about Preparation H (glycerin and lidocaine), please talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer