3 Dec 2010
The are many anti-hemorrhoids drugs available in the market. The drugs
that are prescribed for the treatment of hemorrhoids are usually the same
as those used for treating anal symptoms like itching or discomfort. These
drugs probably reduce only the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Anti hemorrhoid
drugs used for the treatment of hemorrhoids are in the form of creams,
gels, ointments, suppositories, foams, and pads.
There are different ways of applying these medications. For example,
ointments, creams, and gels should be applied as a thin covering when used
around the anus. On the other hand, when they are applied to the anal
canal, they should be inserted with a finger or a "pile pipe."
Prior to insertion, pile pipes should be lubricated with ointment.
Suppositories or foams are easy to use and apply than ointments, creams,
and gels.
All anti hemorrhoid drugs contain more than one type of active
ingredient. Almost all contain a protectant besides another ingredient. We
give below the brand-names of the over the counter anti-hemorrhoid drugs
containing one ingredient in addition to the protectant.
Local anesthetics:
They provide temporary relief from burning, pain, and itching. The
anesthetic numb the nerve endings. They shoulkd only be applied to the
perianal area and lower anal canal. There are chances of allergic reactions
with burning and itching using lacal anesthetics. In such cases, they should
be discontinued.
Local anesthetics include:
- Benzocaine 5% to 20%
- Benzyl alcohol 5% to 20%
- Dyclonine 0.5% to 1.0%
- Dibucaine 0.25% to 1.0%
- Pramoxine 1.0%
- Tetracaine 0.5% to 5.0%
- Lidocaine 2% to 5%
Vasoconstrictors
These are chemicals that are similar to epinephrine, a naturally occurring
chemical. They are applied to the anus, and make the blood vessels smaller.
This way the swelling is reduced. They also reduce pain and itching.
Vasoconstrictors can also taken orally or by injection. But when applied to
the perianal area, there is lower chances of serious side effects, like high
blood pressure, tremor, nervousness, sleeplessness, and diabetes or
hyperthyroidism.
Vasoconstrictors include:
- Ephedrine sulfate 0.1% to 1.25%
- Epinephrine 0.005% to 0.01%
- Phenylephrine 0.25% (Medicone Suppository, Preparation H, Rectacaine)
Protectants:
Protectants are used prevent irritation of the perianal area. When they are
applied, they form a physical barrier on the skin. The irritated skin is
prevented from contacting with aggravating liquid or stool from the rectum.
This barrier reduces itching, pain, irritation, and burning.
Protectants include:
- Aluminum hydroxide gel
- Glycerin
- Mineral oil (Balneol)
- White petrolatum
- Cocoa butter
- Kaolin
- Lanolin
- Starch
- Zinc oxide or calamine
- Cod liver oil or shark liver oil
Astringents
Astringents lead to coagulation of proteins in the cells of the perianal
skin or the anal canal's lining. Astringents promote skin dryness, which in
turn helps relieve itching, burning, and pain.
Astringents include:
- Calamine 5% to 25%
- Zinc oxide 5% to 25%
- Witch hazel 10% to 50%
Antiseptics
Antiseptics prevent bacteria and other organisms's growth. However, so far
it is not yet been clear whether antiseptics are any more effective than
soap and water.
Antiseptics include:
- Boric acid
- Phenol
- Hydrastis
- Benzalkonium chloride
- Cetylpyridinium chloride
- Benzethonium chloride
- Resorcinol
Keratolytics
The anti hemorrhoid drugs in the form of chemicals that cause the outer
layers of skin or other tissues to disintegrate. The two approved
keratolytics used are:
- Aluminum chlorhydroxy allantoinate (alcloxa) 0.2% to 2.0%
- Resorcinol 1% to 3%
Analgesics
Analgesic anti hemorrhoid drugs include anesthetic products, relieve pain,
burning, itching by depressing receptors on pain nerves. For example:
- Menthol 0.1% to 1.0% (greater than 1.0% is not recommended)
- Camphor 0.1% to 3% (greater than 3% is not recommended)
- Juniper tar 1% to 5%
Corticosteroids
They reduce inflammation. They also relieve itching. But when they are used
for a long term, they can cause permanent damage to the skin. They should be
used at the most for two weeks. Only products with weak corticosteroid
effects are available over-the-counter. Stronger corticosteroid products
that are available by prescription should not be used for treating
hemorrhoids.
Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/hemorrhoids/page4.htm#otc