Glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment

About glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment

An anal fissure is a small tear of the skin around your back passage (anus). Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) rectal ointment (Rectogesic®) works by relaxing the muscle just inside your back passage. Relaxing this muscle increases the flow of blood to the area, which eases pain. It can be helpful where other treatments have not been effective.

A different brand of glyceryl trinitrate ointment (Percutol®) is used to relieve angina pain. For information on this product please see our medicine leaflet Glyceryl trinitrate for angina.

Before using glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment

To make sure that this is the right treatment for you, before you start using GTN rectal ointment it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works, or any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have migraines or severe headaches.

• If you have low blood pressure, or a heart condition.

• If you have been told by a doctor you have low levels of iron in your blood (anaemia), or low levels of oxygen in your blood (hypoxaemia).

• If you have an underactive thyroid gland.

• If you have an eye condition called glaucoma.

• If you have recently had a head injury or a heart attack.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal or complementary medicines. It is particularly important that you tell your doctor if you are using any medicines to help treat erectile dysfunction.

How to use glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment

• Before you use the ointment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about using the ointment, and it will also provide you with a full list of side-effects which you could experience.

• Cover your finger with a finger cot (available from pharmacies), or a piece of cling film, or use a disposable glove. Then measure out 2.5 cm of the ointment from the tube on to your finger (there is a measuring line on the packaging to help you). Then, using your finger, gently insert the ointment just inside your back passage. To make sure that the ointment gets to the correct place, insert your finger to the first finger joint. Apply the ointment this way every 12 hours until the pain goes away. You can continue to use the ointment for up to eight weeks, if needed.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Remember to follow any lifestyle or dietary advice you have been given by your doctor. Try to avoid becoming constipated, by eating a high-fibre diet and drinking several glasses of water each day.

• It is best not to drink alcohol while you are using GTN rectal ointment. Alcohol will increase the chance that you experience side-effects such as feeling dizzy and light-headed.

• If you experience any bleeding from your back passage, or if your symptoms do not improve, you should discuss this with your doctor.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are suitable for you to take while you are using GTN rectal ointment.

Can glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with GTN rectal ointment. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the ointment, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store glyceryl trinitrate rectal ointment

• Once opened, do not store or use the ointment for longer than eight weeks.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines