Preparation H (Phenylephrine Rectal Cream, Gel, and Ointment)
Generic name: Phenylephrine Rectal Cream, Gel, and Ointment [ fen-il-EF-rin ]
Brand name: Preparation H
Drug class: Anorectal preparations
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 16, 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 phenylephrine or any other part of Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment).
- If you are allergic to Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment); any part of Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment); 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Do not take Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) by mouth. If Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) is put in the mouth or swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
- 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) by mouth.
- Wash hands before and after use.
- Clean affected part before use. Make sure to dry well.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
- If you use Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) on a regular basis, use 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 use 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
- Many times Preparation H (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment) is used on an as needed basis. Do not use more often than told by the doctor.
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.
Related/similar drugs
hydrocortisone topical, lidocaine topical, phenylephrine topical, Anusol-HC, benzocaine topical, zinc oxide topical
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.
- Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom.
- 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 (phenylephrine rectal cream, gel, and ointment), 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.
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.