Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment for Hemorrhoids

Product Summary

Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment is used for the relief of uncomplicated internal and external piles (haemorrhoids and anal itching.

Key features

• Shrinks piles, relieves discomfort, soothes itching, reduces inflammation
• Contains added hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and ease the discomfort of uncomplicated internal and external piles
• Contains other active ingredients that calm irritation and soothe the itching associated with piles

4-way action with the following active ingredients:

• Hydrocortisone acetate, a mild steroid which helps reduce inflammation
• Zinc oxide and bismuth salts, which are mildly astringent and antiseptic to soothe and protect affected areas
• Balsam Peru, mildly antiseptic, has a protective action on sore areas and may help healing
• Benzyl benzoate, with mild antiseptic properties

Directions

For anal application

Adults: topical use only

• Thoroughly cleanse the affected area, dry, and apply ointment on a gauze dressing.
• Use sparingly at night, in the morning, and after each bowel movement: up to 4 applications per day.
• For internal piles, use the rectal nozzle provided. Remove the nozzle cap and clean the nozzle after each use.
• Do not use for longer than 7 consecutive days.

Ingredients

• Active Ingredients per 100g: Hydrocortisone Acetate 0.25g, Bismuth Oxide 0.875g, Zinc Oxide 10.75g, Bismuth Subgallate 2.25g, Balsam Peru 1.875g, Benzyl Benzoate 1.25g
• Other Ingredients: Petroleum Jelly White, Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate, Lanolin Anhydrous, Cocoa Butter, Castor Oil, Kaolin Light, Magnesium Stearate

Warnings and Restrictions

• Do not use if under 18 years.
• Do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredients of this medicine.
• Do not use on fungal or bacterial skin sores.
• Do not use on broken or infected skin. Common skin infections include anal warts, genital herpes, thrush, and jock itch.

If you continually suffer from piles, if the condition does not improve, or if rectal bleeding occurs, consult your doctor.

This is a medicine. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have an underlying medical condition, are taking any other medication or complementary therapy, or if symptoms persist.

Seek advice if you suffer from allergies.

For external use only

Taking other medicines

Some medicines may increase the effects of Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment, and your doctor may wish to monitor you carefully if you are taking them. These include some HIV medicines, such as ritonavir and cobicistat.

Contact your doctor if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

If any of the above points apply to you, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.

Storage

Do not store above 25°C.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Pharmacist FAQs

Why is this not the standard Anusol?

This one contains hydrocortisone, which is a mild steroid. That makes it more effective at calming inflammation and itching, especially when piles are red, inflamed, or sore. The ingredients - zinc oxide, bismuth salts, and balsam Peru - all play the same role as the original cream: calming, protecting, and easing pain.

Cream versus ointment – what's the difference?

The ointment is thicker, stays longer on the skin, and offers a more substantial barrier. That's optimal for nighttime wear or if there's more irritation from the outside. Creams are thinner in texture, absorb faster, and don't feel so oily—they're optimal for daytime wear, under dresses/pants, etc. If you're leaking or staining due to the ointment, try wearing the cream instead during the day.

Can I use this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

No - this hydrocortisone formulation is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Use the standard Anusol cream or ointment instead, and ask your GP or midwife for personal guidance.

Is it safe to use every day?

It's only meant for temporary use - no more than 7 consecutive days. Skipping too many steroid creams or applying them for too many days can soften the skin. If you still have piles after a week or if something besides the cream is going on, you should consult your doctor.

Can I use it internally?

Yes, but only with the supplied nozzle and for medically diagnosed internal piles. Wash the nozzle after use. Don't assume that if you notice blood and haven't had that tested, it is piles - speak to your GP first.

What if I am already using other creams or medicines?

Most people can take this with other drugs, but a few medications - such as some AIDS drugs like ritonavir - can cause you to absorb more hydrocortisone. That is not to imply that you can't take it, but do check with your doctor or pharmacist just to be sure.

What should I watch out for?

Stop using it and seek advice if the skin worsens -becomes more inflamed, infected, or develops cracks. Please do not use it on broken skin or where there is a fungal, viral, or bacterial infection (e.g., thrush, genital herpes, or warts). And if your vision becomes blurred or you have unusual eye symptoms, that's worth checking out -hydrocortisone rarely causes this in some people.

Is it safe for chronic haemorrhoid patients?

If piles are persistent, steroid creams like this can be used in flare-ups - but aren't a cure. You'll need to treat the causes: constipation, straining, or sitting too long. Using this every few months for a few days is fine, but if you need to use it regularly, it's time to rethink things with your doctor.