So I called a local, well known pharmacy to ask if they compounded Diltizem. They said they did, that it was very common and inexpensive; so I had my doc's office fax the prescription to them. Once they had the prescription, they quoted me a price of $15.98. I thought that was great but also a little concerning. My doctor didn't want to prescribe it for me, because he said the price is "through the roof". Another poster here said that she paid $40, and I saw someone else who said $50.
Anyway, my prescription label says "Diltiazem 2% Gel". It is the consistency of hand lotion and is a pale orange/peach color. It was dispensed in a pill bottle, so I have to scoop it out with my finger. (I see several people saying it should be in a petroleum jelly base.)
The first time I used this (3 nights ago), I woke up thinking it was a miracle drug! Overnight, my sentinel pile (which has been very swollen and aggravated the whole 4 months of this agony) had shrunk down to its pre-fissure size! I was actually able to easily insert some vaseline internally for my morning BM, which has been difficult because the sentinel pile had the rectal opening very closed off. I still had some pretty bad spasm pain that day for several hours, but I was encouraged by the pile shrinkage.
Well, since that first night I have seen no more dramatic improvements. The pile swelled up again later that day and has remained swollen. I'm not really feeling any improvements, although it has been only 2&1/2 days. Someone said that when they apply their ointment their spasms stop. That is certainly not happening with me.
Has anyone else used Diltiazem that was made like mine? How much did it cost? Did it work? Regardless of the type you have, how long did it take to feel a real difference? Do you use it externally only, or do you apply it inside?
It seems like the active ingredient is all that should matter, but I am just wondering about these things.
Thanks!