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Anusol Soothing Relief Suppositories contain hydrocortisone acetate 10mg plus zinc oxide, bismuth and balsam Peru for the symptomatic treatment of uncomplicated internal haemorrhoids (piles) and anal itching (pruritus ani) in adults aged 18 and over. The hydrocortisone reduces swelling and inflammation, while the other ingredients soothe and protect. Sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Active ingredients | Per suppository: hydrocortisone acetate 10mg, zinc oxide 296mg, bismuth subgallate 59mg, bismuth oxide 24mg, balsam Peru 49mg, benzyl benzoate 33mg |
|---|---|
| Format | Suppositories for anal insertion – not to be taken by mouth |
| Relieves | Symptoms of uncomplicated internal haemorrhoids and anal itching: swelling, inflammation, discomfort and itching |
| Age | Adults aged 18 years and over (including the elderly); not for under-18s |
| Dose | 1 suppository at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement |
| Maximum | 3 suppositories a day, for no more than 7 days unless a doctor tells you otherwise |
| Pack | 12 suppositories |
| Storage | Do not store above 25°C |
Who it is for
- Adults aged 18 and over with internal piles that are swollen, inflamed, uncomfortable or itchy.
- People who have used plain Anusol and need the added anti-inflammatory action of hydrocortisone for a short course.
Not suitable for: Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, under 18, allergic to any of the ingredients (including balsam Peru, which can cause skin sensitisation), or if the area has a tubercular, fungal or viral infection such as herpes simplex, chickenpox or vaccinia. If you have rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, see a doctor before using this product, as it can be a sign of something more serious. Check with a pharmacist or doctor first if you use other steroid creams, ointments or tablets, or take medicines such as ritonavir, cobicistat or itraconazole (CYP3A inhibitors).
How to use
- Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
- Gently clean and dry the anal area.
- Pull the plastic cover apart and peel it back to expose the suppository.
- Insert one suppository into the back passage at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement. Wash your hands afterwards.
- Do not use more than 3 suppositories in one day, and do not use for more than 7 days in a row unless your doctor tells you to.
- Stop and see a doctor if symptoms do not improve, get worse, or you notice bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from ordinary Anusol suppositories?
Anusol Soothing Relief adds hydrocortisone acetate 10mg, a mild steroid that reduces inflammation and swelling, to the soothing and protecting ingredients in standard Anusol. Because it contains a steroid it is limited to adults aged 18 and over and to 7 days' use.
How many can I use a day and for how long?
One suppository at night, one in the morning and one after each bowel movement, up to 3 a day. Do not use for more than 7 days unless a doctor advises it – longer steroid use can thin the skin and allow the steroid to be absorbed into the body.
Can I use it while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. The SmPC says do not use Anusol Soothing Relief in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask our pharmacist about alternatives such as plain Anusol.
Can I use it with a steroid cream or other steroid medicine?
Using it alongside other steroid creams, ointments or tablets can increase the chance of steroid side effects. Check with a pharmacist or doctor first.
What if I notice bleeding?
See a doctor before using this product if you have rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, and stop and see a doctor if bleeding starts while you are using it.
How should I store the suppositories?
Below 25°C, in the pack, out of the sight and reach of children. They may soften if they get warm.
Safety and storage
- For anal use only. Do not swallow.
- Contains a corticosteroid: do not use for longer than 7 days unless directed by a doctor, and tell a doctor if you notice blurred vision or other changes in your eyesight.
- Balsam Peru may cause skin sensitisation reactions in some people.
- Do not store above 25°C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
This is a medicine. Always read the label and the Patient Information Leaflet before use. If symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
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