Ana-Lex ratings & reviews

Ana-lex contains the active ingredients lidocaine and hydrocortisone. Lidocaine acts as a local anesthetic, and hydrocortisone is a topical steroid. It is intended to relieve minor pain and irritation in the rectal area by numbing the area and decreasing inflammation.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for rectal use only. Do not take it by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse it out with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed or for a longer time period than prescribed by your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
• Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• G6PD deficiency
• Have higher than normal levels of methemoglobin
• Heart disease
• Infections, such as tuberculosis (TB) or other bacterial, fungal, or viral infections
• Large areas of burned or damaged skin
• Liver disease
• Lung disease
• An unusual or allergic reaction to lidocaine, hydrocortisone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

• Certain medications for irregular heartbeat

Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Be careful to avoid injury while the area is numb, and you are not aware of pain.