Generic name: phenylephrine (rectal) [ FEN-il-EFF-rin-REK-tal ]
Brand names: Avedana Hemorrhoidal, Hemorrhoidal, Medicone Hemorrhoidal, Preparation H Cooling Gel, Preparation H Suppositories, ... show all 16 brands Anu-Med rectal, Formulation R rectal, Hemorid rectal, Hemorrhoidal Cooling Gel rectal, Anusert Ointment, Hemorid, Formulation R, Prompt Relief, Prep-Hem, Anu-Med, Hemorrhoidal Cooling Gel
Dosage forms: rectal gel (0.25%), rectal suppository (0.25%)
Drug class: Anorectal preparations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 9, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is phenylephrine rectal?

Phenylephrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels. Dilated blood vessels can cause hemorrhoids.

Phenylephrine rectal is used on the rectum to relieve itching, burning, irritation, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids.

Phenylephrine rectal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Phenylephrine rectal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Phenylephrine may cause serious side effects. Stop using phenylephrine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• rectal bleeding;

• severe irritation inside or around your rectum; or

• increased blood pressure--severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety, nosebleed.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use phenylephrine if you are allergic to it phenylephrine (often used in certain cold or allergy medicines).

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have:

• heart disease;

• high blood pressure;

• enlarged prostate or urination problems;

• diabetes; or

• a thyroid disorder.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Always ask a doctor before using phenylephrine rectal on a child. Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I use phenylephrine rectal?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

You may use phenylephrine rectal up to 4 times daily, especially after a bowel movement.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not place phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, or ointment inside your rectum. These forms of phenylephrine rectal are for use only on the area around and just outside of your rectum.

Only the rectal suppository should be placed into the rectum.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Related/similar drugs

hydrocortisone topical, lidocaine topical, phenylephrine topical, Anusol-HC, benzocaine topical, zinc oxide topical

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since phenylephrine rectal is used on an as needed basis, you are not likely to miss a dose. Do not use phenylephrine rectal more than 4 times per day.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking phenylephrine rectal?

Do not take phenylephrine rectal rectal suppository by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines that may contain ingredients similar to phenylephrine rectal.

What other drugs will affect phenylephrine rectal?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using phenylephrine with any other medications, especially:

• blood pressure medication; or

• an MAO inhibitor--isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect phenylephrine rectal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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

Medical Disclaimer

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