Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Please note: This product is for external use only. DO NOT take it by mouth.
Introduction
You have been given this information as you have been advised to use diltiazem hydrochloride 2% cream for treatment of an anal fissure. Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using it. Keep it in a safe place as you may need to refer to it again.
If you have any questions, or if you are unsure about anything, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
What does the cream do?
Diltiazem cream is used to promote healing of the back passage lining, following a tear or “fissure”. It works by relaxing the anal sphincter muscle, increasing the blood flow to the area to allow healing to occur.
How do I apply the Diltiazem cream?
- Try to ensure you have opened your bowels before using the cream as this will allow the cream to be in contact with the area for as long as possible.
- Wash your hands before and after you use the cream.
- Apply a small amount to your finger (approximately 2cm) and place the cream just inside and around the anus. If you prefer, you can wear a disposable glove to apply the cream. Please dispose of this appropriately.
- Use the cream twice a day (morning and evening), for 8 weeks. You must finish the course to get the full benefit of treatment.
- If you run out of cream before the end of the course, please ask for more.
Side-effects
All medicines have side effects, but they don’t occur in all people who take them. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects become troublesome.
The most common unwanted effects of Diltiazem hydrochloride (which occur in less than 1 in 10 people who use it) are:
- Headaches - most headaches will not be severe or long lasting and can be treated with simple painkillers (e.g. paracetamol). If the headache does not resolve or is unpleasant, please consult your pharmacist or doctor.
- Light-headedness or dizziness especially when getting up from a sitting or lying down position. If you begin to feel dizzy, sit or lie down until the feeling passes.
- Local burning or itching or rectal bleeding. If troublesome, speak with your doctor.
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store your medicine
- Do not store or use the cream after 4 weeks of opening. A typical 8 week course will use 2 tubes of cream.
- Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children
- Store the cream in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light
- Do not share your medicine with anyone else, even if their symptoms seem similar to yours.
Additional information
The information on this page is not intended to replace your doctor’s advice. If you require more information or have any questions, please contact the hospital medicines information department, or your local pharmacist.
Frimley Health NHS Trust Medicines Information Team:
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.15pm
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the General surgery service.
About this information
Service:
General surgery
Reference:
Y/048
Approval date:
1 December 2023
Review date:
1 December 2026
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.