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View this article online at: patient.info/medicine/preparations-for-haemorrhoids-piles-containing-a-corticosteriod-

anusol

Preparations for haemorrhoids (piles)

containing a corticosteriod (Anusol)
Common symptoms of haemorrhoids are pain, and bleeding after going to the toilet.

Preparations containing corticosteroids reduce inflammation, which helps to ease

discomfort.

Do not use the preparation for longer than seven days at a time.

It may cause stinging when it is first applied. This will soon pass.

About preparations for haemorrhoids containing a corticosteroid

Used for Haemorrhoids (piles)
Also Anugesic-HC®; Anusol-HC®; Anusol Plus HC®; Perinal®; Proctofoam HC®; Proctosedyl®; Scheriproct®; Ultraproct®;
called Uniroid-HC®; Xyloproct®
Available Cream, ointment, suppositories, spray, and foam
as

Haemorrhoids (piles) are swellings that can occur in the anus and lower rectum (back passage). Small blood
vessels in these areas sometimes become wider and fill with more blood than usual. These blood vessels, and
the tissues around them, then form into small swellings, called haemorrhoids. The most common symptom is
bleeding after going to the toilet. Larger haemorrhoids may cause pain, irritation, and itch.

Your doctor may recommend a preparation containing a corticosteroid (more commonly referred to as a 'steroid')
if there is a lot of swelling. Corticosteroids are similar to certain chemicals which are produced naturally by your
body. Typical ones used for haemorrhoids are hydrocortisone, prednisolone, and fluocortolone. They reduce
inflammation, which helps to ease itching and pain. Some preparations also contain a local anaesthetic and/or
other soothing agents.

You can buy some of these preparations without a prescription at pharmacies. Others are only available on
prescription. You should not normally use them for longer than one week at a time.

Before using the preparation

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you start using it, make sure your doctor or pharmacist
knows:

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you have an infection in the area to be treated.
If it is for a child.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine, or to any creams or ointments.
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How to use the preparation
Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your
pack. The leaflet will give you more information about the specific preparation you have been given,
and a full list of any side-effects which you may experience from using it.
Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how often to use the preparation, and these directions will also
be printed on the packaging to remind you. As a guide, most preparations are recommended to be
used twice daily (morning and evening) and after a bowel movement.
Some creams and ointments are intended to be used on the skin around the back passage only.
Some others contain an applicator or nozzle, so that the preparation can be applied inside the back
passage. If you have been instructed to use the preparation internally, use the applicator provided.
Wash and rinse the applicator/nozzle after each use.

How to use suppositories:

1. Remove the suppository from the wrapping.

2. Stand with one leg raised on a chair (or lie down on your side if you prefer).
3. Using your finger, gently push the suppository into your back passage as far as comfortable, pointed
end first. You may find this easier to do if you moisten the suppository with a little water first.
4. Remain still for a little while to help hold the suppository in place.
5. Wash your hands afterwards.

How to use Perinal® Rectal Spray:

1. Before you use the spray for the first time, remove the cap and press the pump down once or twice.
This will 'prime' the pump to make it ready for use.
2. Point the spray at the area around your bottom and press the pump down once.
3. Replace the cap and wash your hands afterwards.

How to use Proctofoam HC® Rectal Foam:

1. Shake the canister well before each use.

2. Withdraw the plunger slowly until it stops at the catch line.
3. Hold the applicator with the nozzle downwards, and then insert the top of the canister of foam into the
nozzle.
4. Press the canister top gently so that foam fills about a quarter of the applicator. Only a short press is
needed to do this. Wait a few seconds for the foam to expand and then press the canister top again.
Continue to fill the applicator a little at a time until the foam reaches the fill line.
5. Stand with one leg raised on a chair (or lie down on your side if you prefer) and gently insert the
applicator into your back passage. Push the plunger to empty the applicator.
6. Wash the applicator after each use.

Getting the most from your treatment

This preparation should only be used for short periods of time. Do no use it for longer than seven days
at a time unless you have been advised to do so by a doctor. This is because it will increase the risk of
your experiencing side-effects from the corticosteroid.
Try to avoid becoming constipated, as this can lead to you straining at the toilet. You can do this by
eating foods containing fibre (such as fruit, vegetables, cereals, and wholemeal bread) and drinking
plenty of water each day.
Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need. Some people suppress the feeling and plan to go to the
toilet later. This may result in bigger and harder stools forming, which are then more difficult to pass.
If your symptoms do not improve, or if significant bleeding occurs, make an appointment to see your
doctor.

Can these preparations cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone
experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor
or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
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Possible side-effects What can I do if I experience this?

Afeeling of burning, tingling or This should soon pass
stinging
Changes in behaviour or mood If you become anxious, confused, or start having worrying thoughts, speak with your doctor as
soon as possible

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this preparation, speak with your doctor or
pharmacist.

How to store these preparations

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

This preparation is not intended to be ingested. If someone swallows some of it by accident, go to the accident and
emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.

This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Further reading & references

British National Formulary; 64th Edition (Sep 2012) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great
Britain, London

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical
conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its
accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
For details see our conditions.

Original Author: Current Version: Peer Reviewer:

Helen Allen Helen Allen Dr John Cox
Document ID: Last Checked: Next Review:
3830 (v23) 05/02/2013 05/02/2016

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anusol
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