Introduction
Hemorrhoid ointments are pharmaceutical formulations suitable for application at the anal and / or rectal level, indicated - depending on the case and the active ingredients used - for the local treatment of internal or external hemorrhoids.
More precisely...
In the context of this pathology, the hemorrhoids proper are inflamed, increase in volume and proliferate, causing symptoms such as itching, pain, burning and bleeding.
We talk about internal hemorrhoids when they remain inside the anal canal; while talking about external hemorrhoids when they come out easily and develop close to the anus (for more information. read the article: Hemorrhoids).
The hemorrhoid ointments currently available on the market are almost all classified as medicines without a prescription. However, since the hemorrhoids are not a disorder to be underestimated - in the event that the typical symptomatology occurs - before resorting to the use of any type of drug, it is good to contact your doctor.
Composition
Active Ingredients contained in Hemorrhoid Ointments
The active ingredients with which the hemorrhoid ointments are formulated must have activities that can counteract the disorder and the symptoms associated with the haemorrhoidal disease, such as itching, burning and pain.
For this reason, local anesthetics and steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, which are often used in combination, are among the active ingredients most commonly used in this kind of ointments. However, hemorrhoid ointments containing active ingredients of plant origin are not lacking.
Of course, the choice of a drug rather than another may depend on the type of hemorrhoids (external or internal) and the severity with which the disease manifests itself. For this reason, the doctor's preventive consultation should always be requested.
Local anesthetics
Local anesthetics are active ingredients that are used in the case of hemorrhoids, to counteract symptoms such as itching, burning and pain that almost always manifest themselves in conjunction with the haemorrhoidal disease.
Among the most commonly used local anesthetics in this area, we mention benzocaine (Proctosedyl®, Proctosoll®), ketocaine (Proctolyn®), tetracaine (Ruscoroid®) and lidocaine (Doxiproct® ointment).
Local anesthetics perform their action by interfering with the excitability of cell membranes, and thus hindering the conduction of nerve impulses, thus the perception of pain, burning and itching.
Steroid-type anti-inflammatories
Steroid-based anti-inflammatories are part of the composition of hemorrhoid ointments, as they are active ingredients that can "extinguish" the inflammation associated with the haemorrhoidal disease. This action is carried out by suppressing the activity of the immune system.
Among the most widely used steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in this area, we find fluocinolone (Proctolyn®), hydrocortisone acetate (Proctosedyl®, Proctosoll®) and dexamethasone (Doxiproct®).
Active ingredients and plant extracts
Also the active ingredients and plant extracts can be included in the formulation of hemorrhoid ointments.
For example, there are medicinal products based on ruscogenins (Ruscoroid®), active ingredients of plant origin with an anti-inflammatory, decongestant and vasoconstrictor action.
The plant extracts, on the other hand, can be used in the production of ointments for galenic hemorrhoids. Among the most commonly used extracts, we recall those of witch hazel, horse chestnut, ruscus, mallow, calendula and yarrow (for more information, read Pomades Against Hemorrhoids and Anal Rinds).
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Cell Extracts
Finally, there are hemorrhoid ointments formulated with extracts of Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells (Preparation H® ointment). This type of ointment is indicated in the treatment of both internal and external hemorrhoids.
Pharmacodynamic studies conducted on these ointments showed that topical application of S. cerevisiae extracts promotes and accelerates the resolution of the haemorrhoidal disease.
dosage
Generally, hemorrhoid ointments should be applied once or twice a day, in the morning and / or evening, preferably after evacuating.
However, it is necessary to follow the instructions provided by the doctor, or to the instructions on the package insert of the medicine to be used.
Side effects
The side effects may vary depending on the type of hemorrhoid ointment used. However, the most common side effects that may occur following the use of these medicines consist of a transient sensation of pain, burning or discomfort, located in the area of application.
Furthermore, allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Can Hemorrhoid Ointments Be Used In Pregnancy And During Lactation?
In general, the use of ointments for hemorrhoids in pregnancy and during breastfeeding should be carried out only in case of real need, and only after the doctor has carried out a careful evaluation of the relationship between the expected benefits for the mother and potential risks to the fetus / infant. In fact, while some hemorrhoid ointments can be used without any problems, others may contain active ingredients potentially dangerous for the child.
In any case, this category of patients must seek the advice of their doctor before taking any type of drug (even if it involves drugs without a prescription or self-medication).
Contraindications
Usually, hemorrhoid ointments do not present particular contraindications, except in the case where there is a known hypersensitivity to any of their components (both active ingredients and excipients).
However, to know all the possible contraindications to the use of hemorrhoid ointments, please refer to the information leaflet of the medicinal product to be used.
Homeopathic Ointments
Even in homeopathy it is possible to find different ointments for hemorrhoids, to be applied both externally and internally, depending on the product you decide to use.
Hemorrhoids ointments of this type are formulated with "active substances" which - according to the homeopathic principles - are useful to counteract the hemorrhoids and the symptoms induced by them. These active substances can be incorporated into the homeopathic product as a mother tincture, or as a properly diluted homeopathic remedy. Among these substances, we recall: Paeonia officinalis, Ficaria ranunculoides, Amyleini hydrochloridum, Adrenalinum and Aesculus hippocastanum.
