Anustat Ointment in Kenya

ANUSTAT OINTMENT comes in a single tube and offers a potent combination of active ingredients for targeted relief of anorectal discomfort. Based on the provided information, Anustat Ointment is formulated with:

• Lidocaine base 60mg (a local anesthetic)
• Hydrocortisone acetate 5mg (a corticosteroid)

This ointment is specifically designed to treat pain, itching, and discomfort arising from irritated anorectal tissues.¹ It is widely used for conditions such as hemorrhoids (piles), proctitis, pruritus ani (anal itching), milder forms of anal fissures, and for postoperative pain relief in the anal area.² While this medicine is available for purchase online in Kenya without a prescription, its usage MUST strictly adhere to a physician’s guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness

Unpacking the Formulation: Key Components and their Mechanisms

Anustat Ointment provides rapid and effective relief through the synergistic actions of its two primary active ingredients:

• Lidocaine Base (60mg):
  • Class: Local Anesthetic.
  • Mechanism of Action: Lidocaine works by blocking nerve signals in the area where you apply it.³ It achieves this by stabilizing the neuronal membrane, which prevents the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses.⁴ Consequently, it effectively numbs the nerve endings in the anorectal region, thereby providing rapid and significant relief from pain and itching sensations. This makes it particularly effective for acute discomfort.

     

• Hydrocortisone Acetate (5mg):
  • Class: Corticosteroid (specifically a glucocorticoid).
  • Mechanism of Action: This component acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and antipruritic agent.⁵ It works by reducing the body’s inflammatory response, suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators (like prostaglandins and leukotrienes) and cytokines. This action effectively diminishes redness, swelling, and itching associated with irritated tissues in the rectal area.

     

Together, Lidocaine addresses the immediate pain and itching, while Hydrocortisone works to reduce the underlying inflammation and swelling, offering comprehensive symptomatic relief for various anorectal conditions.

Addressing Health Concerns and User Needs

ANUSTAT Ointment effectively addresses several common and often distressing anorectal conditions:

• Hemorrhoids (Piles): Provides targeted relief from the pain, itching, and swelling associated with both internal and external hemorrhoids.⁶

   

• Proctitis: Helps to reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort in the lining of the rectum.⁷

   

• Pruritus Ani (Anal Itching): Effectively alleviates persistent and uncomfortable itching around the anus.
• Milder Forms of Anal Fissures: Aids in relieving pain and promoting healing of small tears in the anal lining.
• Postoperative Pain Relief: Offers significant comfort and reduces inflammation following anorectal surgery or procedures.
• Dual Action: The combination of an anesthetic and a corticosteroid means it tackles both the sensation of pain/itching and the underlying inflammation, offering more complete relief.

Identifying Indications for Use

ANUSTAT Ointment is specifically indicated for:

• The symptomatic treatment of hemorrhoids (piles), including both internal and external types.
• Relief of pain, itching, and discomfort associated with proctitis.
• Alleviation of pruritus ani.
• Management of symptoms arising from milder forms of anal fissures.
• Postoperative pain relief and inflammation reduction after proctologic surgery or examinations.
• Managing discomfort from other forms of irritated anorectal tissues.

Primary Uses

The primary uses of ANUSTAT Ointment are:

• Rapidly reducing pain and discomfort through local anesthetic action.
• Significantly decreasing inflammation, swelling, and itching with corticosteroid action.
• Providing soothing and protective relief to irritated anal and rectal tissues.
• Promoting healing of damaged anorectal tissues.⁸

   

• Offering comprehensive symptomatic relief for acute and chronic anorectal conditions.

Understanding Potential Side Effects and Critical Precautions

While Anustat Ointment is generally safe for short-term use, awareness of potential side effects, particularly those related to its active ingredients (Lidocaine and Hydrocortisone), and adherence to precautions are crucial.

Common Local Side Effects (Usually Mild and Temporary)

• Burning sensation or stinging: This may occur upon application, especially at the start of treatment.
• Irritation: Mild irritation or redness at the application site.
• Increased itching: Sometimes a paradoxical increase in itching, or sensitivity, especially at the start of treatment or if there’s an allergic reaction to an ingredient.

Less Common but More Serious Local Side Effects (Typically with Prolonged or Excessive Use of the Hydrocortisone Component)

• Skin Atrophy: Thinning of the perianal skin, leading to easy bruising, tearing, or increased fragility.
• Striae (Stretch Marks): Can develop with prolonged use, particularly in areas of skin folds.⁹

   

• Telangiectasia (Spider Veins): Visible small blood vessels due to thinning skin.
• Folliculitis: Inflammation of hair follicles.¹⁰

   

• Perioral Dermatitis: Rash around the mouth (if accidentally spread).
• Acne-like eruptions.
• Hypopigmentation: Lightening of the skin color in the treated area.
• Secondary Infection: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can mask or worsen existing bacterial, fungal, or viral infections in the treated area.

Systemic Side Effects (Rare, but possible with very extensive, prolonged use, or in children)

Systemic absorption of Lidocaine and Hydrocortisone from topical application is generally minimal, but it can occur, especially with large surface areas, broken skin, or prolonged use.

• From Hydrocortisone:
  • Adrenal Suppression: The body’s natural production of corticosteroids can be suppressed.
  • Cushing’s Syndrome: Symptoms like weight gain, “moon face,” or fluid retention (very rare with topical use).
  • Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar).
• From Lidocaine (if significant systemic absorption occurs):
  • Nervousness, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, drowsiness.
  • Rarely, cardiovascular effects (e.g., changes in heart rate, low blood pressure) or central nervous system effects (e.g., seizures) can occur with very high absorption, typically from misuse.

Critical Safety Warnings and Precautions for Anustat Ointment

Although Anustat Ointment is available without a prescription in Kenya, its usage MUST be in accordance with a physician’s guidance.

• Duration of Use: Do not use Anustat Ointment for prolonged periods (generally not more than 7 days) without consulting a doctor. Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to skin thinning and other local or systemic side effects.¹¹

   

• Rectal Bleeding: If you experience any rectal bleeding or notice blood in your stool, consult a doctor immediately before using Anustat or any other hemorrhoid treatment. Undiagnosed rectal bleeding can be a symptom of more serious underlying conditions that require urgent medical attention.¹²

   

• Underlying Conditions: Do not self-diagnose severe or persistent anorectal symptoms. Conditions like severe anal fissures, abscesses, or other serious bowel diseases require specific medical diagnosis and treatment.
• Infections: Do not use Anustat Ointment if you suspect a bacterial, viral (e.g., herpes, chickenpox), or fungal infection in the anal or rectal area, unless you are also using an appropriate anti-infective treatment prescribed by a doctor. Corticosteroids can mask or worsen infections.
• Allergies: Do not use if you have known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to Lidocaine, Hydrocortisone, or any other ingredients in the ointment.
• Children: Use with caution in children. Their skin is thinner and their body surface area to weight ratio is larger, increasing the risk of systemic absorption and side effects.¹³ Always consult a pediatrician before using in children.

   

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using Anustat during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They will assess the benefits versus risks.
• Avoid Eyes/Mouth: Do not apply the ointment to your eyes or mouth.¹⁴ If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

   

• Dosage Adherence: Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency. Applying more frequently or using larger amounts offers no additional benefit and significantly increases the risk of side effects.
• Not for Internal Use (unless specified with applicator): If no specific applicator is provided for internal use, this ointment is primarily for external application to the perianal area and external hemorrhoids.

Recommended Dosage and Administration Guidelines

• Dosage (Adults):
  • Apply a thin layer of ANUSTAT OINTMENT to the affected area once or twice daily, or as directed by your physician.
  • Always follow the specific instructions provided by your physician or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency.
• Administration:
  1. Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after application.
  2. Cleanse: Gently clean and dry the anal area thoroughly with a soft towel before applying the medicine.
  3. Apply: Squeeze a small amount of ointment onto your fingertip.
  4. Spread: Gently apply a very thin layer of the ointment to the affected external area. For internal application, if an appropriate applicator is provided, follow the instructions for its use.
  5. After Bowel Movement: If possible, apply the ointment after a bowel movement to ensure it remains in place and can work effectively.
• Duration: Use for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms, typically for up to 7 days. If your symptoms persist or worsen beyond this period, you must seek medical advice.

Price in Kenya (Approximate)

As of Friday, June 27, 2025, the approximate price for ANUSTAT OINTMENT (LIDOCAINE/HYDROCORTISONE) – 1 TUBE in Kenya can range from Ksh 600 to Ksh 900.

Note: Prices can vary between different pharmacies and retailers depending on their specific sourcing, promotions, and markups. Always contact specific pharmacies or hospitals for the most current pricing.

Conclusion

ANUSTAT Ointment, with its combination of Lidocaine and Hydrocortisone, provides a powerful and effective topical solution in Kenya for the symptomatic relief of various painful and inflammatory anorectal conditions, including hemorrhoids, proctitis, anal itching, and mild fissures.¹⁵ It swiftly addresses both pain/itching and underlying inflammation, leading to comprehensive relief. While available without a prescription, it is absolutely crucial that its usage is guided by professional medical advice, especially for persistent or severe symptoms, or in any instance of rectal bleeding. Adhering to the recommended dosage, frequency, and duration of use will ensure optimal symptom management and minimize potential adverse effects associated with prolonged corticosteroid use.¹