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Topical Haemorrhoidal Products

Introduction

Haemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged blood vessels that develop around or inside the anus and lower rectum. Symptoms of haemorrhoids vary depending on the type, and may include painful defecation, blood in the stool, anal pain or itching. Common predisposing factors include chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, advanced age, and pregnancy. During flare-ups, patients may utilize topical haemorrhoidal products to temporarily alleviate symptoms such as burning, pain, itching and inflammation. However, it is important to note that these products do not ‘cure’ haemorrhoids; they merely provide temporary symptomatic relief of local pain and itching in mild or less severe cases.

If symptoms of haemorrhoids persist or worsen, or if patients experience persistent or severe symptoms, such as intense pain, rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, or any unusual change around the anal area, they should seek immediate medical consultation for diagnosis and treatment.


Common Active Ingredients in Topical Haemorrhoidal Products*

Topical haemorrhoidal products typically contain a combination of active ingredients, including local anesthetics, corticosteroids, astringents, protectants, and vasoconstrictors.

Topical haemorrhoidal products are available in various dosage forms, e.g. creams, ointments, foams, and suppositories.

Common active ingredients in topical haemorrhoidal products:

Categories of active ingredients (Functions)* Examples of active ingredients* Common side effects* Precautions*
Local anesthetics
(Temporarily reduces pain of the affected areas)
  • Benzocaine
  • Cinchocaine
  • Lignocaine
  • Pramoxine
  • Skin irritation or allergic reactions develops at the site of application
  • Should not be applied to damaged skin
  • Should only be used for a few days to avoid sensitization of the anal skin and systemic absorption
  • Should not be used without consulting a doctor or pharmacist
  • Do not use in pregnant woman
  • For benzocaine:
    May cause methemoglobinemia, a serious condition that must be treated promptly
Corticosteroids (Temporarily reduces inflammation and itching of the affected area)
  • Betamethasone
  • Hydrocortisone
  • Temporary burning, itching
  • Do not apply topical corticosteroids to infected skin
  • Should not be used without consulting a doctor or pharmacist
  • For occasional short-term use only (no longer than 7 days), as long-term use of topical corticosteroids can cause thinning of the perianal skin and lead to ulceration or permanent damage, and a withdrawal reaction may occur on stopping treatment if used continuously for prolonged periods
  • Do not use in pregnant woman
Astringents
(Temporary relief of irritation in the affected areas)
  • Bismuth salts
  • Calamine
  • Zinc oxide
  • Hypersensitivity reactions such as rash
  • Mild stinging, dryness or irritation at the application site
  • Do not apply preparations containing zinc oxide prior to x-ray examinations
Protectants
(Temporarily provides a protective coating to relieve discomfort and irritation of the affected areas)
  • Calamine
  • Cocoa butter
  • Glycerin
  • Mineral oil
  • White petrolatum
  • Zinc oxide
  • Mild skin irritation or rash
  • Do not apply preparations containing zinc oxide prior to x-ray examinations
Vasoconstrictors (Temporarily reduces the swelling associated with irritated haemorrhoidal tissues)
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride
  • Pain, irritation or burning at the application site
  • Consult a doctor before use if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease or difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland
  • Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are presently taking a prescription medication for hypertension or depression

General Advice*

  • Always follow dosage and administration instructions from your healthcare provider, and do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
  • Avoid using non-prescription topical haemorrhoidal products for longer than 7 days without consulting a healthcare professional.
  • Apply topical haemorrhoidal products after bowel movements for optimal effect, and ensure the affected area is gently cleaned and dried prior to application.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms of haemorrhoids, such as rectal bleeding, blood in stool, severe pain, or any abnormal changes around the anus, or if your condition worsens or symptoms persist.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using any topical haemorrhoidal products, as certain topical haemorrhoidal products should be avoided or used with caution.

Storage

Topical haemorrhoidal products should be stored in a cool dry place. Refrigeration is not generally required unless specified on the label. Always keep medications out of reach and sight of children to prevent accidental ingestion.


*This information may not cover all possible side effects, precautions, or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional for guidance.

Drug Office
Department of Health
March 2026
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