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ANTI-HEMORRHOID DRUGS


Anti-Hemorrhoid Drugs are medicines that reduce the swelling and relieve the discomfort of hemorrhoids (swellings in the area around the anus).

Purpose
Hemorrhoids are bulges in the veins that supply blood to the skin and membranes of the area around the anus. They may form for various reasons. Frequent heavy lifting, sitting for long periods, or straining to have bowel movements may put stress on anal tissues, which can lead to hemorrhoids. Some women develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy as the expanding uterus puts pressure on the anal tissues. The strain of labor and delivery can also cause hemorrhoids or make existing hemorrhoids worse. Hemorrhoids sometimes result from certain medical problems, such as tumors pressing on the lower bowel.

The main symptoms of hemorrhoids are bleeding from the rectum, especially after a bowel movement, and itching, burning, pain and general discomfort in the anal area. Over-the-counter anti-hemorrhoid products can relieve many of these symptoms. The products contain combinations of four main types of ingredients:
  • Local Anaesthetics such as Benzocaine, Lidocaine and Tetracaine, to temporarily relieve the pain.
  • Vasoconstrictors, such as Epinephrine Base, Epinephrine Hydrochloride, Ephedrine Sulfate and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride that reduce swelling and relieve itching and discomfort by tightening blood vessels.
  • Astringents (drying agents), such as Witch Hazel, Calamine, and Zinc Oxide. These help shrink hemorrhoids by pulling water out of the swollen tissue. This, in turn, helps relieve itching, burning, and irritation.
  • Protectants, such as Cocoa Butter, Lanolin, Glycerin, Mineral Oil, and Shark Liver Oil which soothe irritated tissues and form a protective barrier to prevent further irritation.
    Description
    Anti-Hemorrhoid Drugs are available as creams, ointments and suppositories. Most can be bought without a physician's prescription.