Topical Solutions
Hemorrhoids Authority
Topical Hemorrhoids Medications
Although most cases of hemorrhoids are generally not serious [Level-1], the rectal itching, irritation, and burning can seriously interfere with your daily activities.
You can usually treat hemorrhoids with medications available without a prescription, but sorting through the large selection of hemorrhoid products can be confusing. In addition, not all medications are safe or effective for all people.
Most hemorrhoidal over-the-counter medications are preparations that contain a variety of active ingredients to provide short-term relief of hemorrhoid symptoms.
These products are applied directly to the anal or rectal area and come in different forms, including creams, gels, foams and pads.
Hemorrhoidal preparations may be classified as follows:
Protective Medications
Hemorrhoidal preparations often include a protectant, such as zinc oxide, mineral oil or starch, which covers the delicate tissues to prevent excessive drying and irritation and forms a protective barrier while skin heals. Protective preparations include:
Topical Starch Hemorrhoidal Suppositories (starch)
Desitin (zinc oxide) Mineral oil Lanolin Glycerin
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is a steroid that temporarily reduces the itching associated with hemorrhoids. Over-the-counter preparations that contain a low dose of hydrocortisone include:
Cortizone-10 Anal Itch Cream
Preparation H Anti-Itch Cream Hydrocortisone TUCKS Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Ointment
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Average Cost
$4.95 – $14.95
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Numbing Medications
Some hemorrhoidal preparations include a local anesthetic, which numb the nerves and can provide temporary relief of pain and other discomforts of hemorrhoids. Products include:
Americaine Hemorrhoidal Ointment (benzocaine)
Medicone Hemorrhoidal Ointment (benzocaine) Tronolane Anesthetic Hemorrhoid Cream (pramoxine) Lanacane (benzocaine)
Nupercainal (dibucaine)
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Average Cost
$7.95 – $24.95
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Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is an astringent that shrinks blood vessels and exposed tissues, promotes drying, and can temporarily soothe the burning and itching of hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is a common, natural ingredient found in some moist pads and wipes, which can also be used for gentle, soothing cleansing after bowel movements. Products include:
Preparation H Medicated Wipes
TUCKS Medicated Pads
Hem Miracle Cream
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Average Cost
$8.95 – $27.95
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Combination Products
Some over-the-counter healing options contain a combination of medications that work together in different ways to reduce the pain, irritation, itching, burning, and swelling of hemorrhoids and make passing stool more comfortable. These include:
Preparation H Cooling Gel (contains the vasoconstrictor phenylephrine and the astringent witch hazel)
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Average Cost
$8.95 – $27.95
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