Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment 15g is a pharmacy ointment for the symptomatic treatment of uncomplicated internal and external haemorrhoids (piles) and pruritus ani (anal itching). It combines six active ingredients, including a low-strength hydrocortisone steroid, and comes with a nozzle for internal use, so one tube can be used for both internal and external symptoms.

Key Features

• Six active ingredients: The ointment contains hydrocortisone acetate, benzyl benzoate, bismuth subgallate, bismuth oxide, balsam peru and zinc oxide.
• Licensed uses: It is licensed for the symptomatic treatment of uncomplicated internal and external haemorrhoids and pruritus ani.
• Rectal nozzle supplied: The 15g aluminium tube comes with a plastic nozzle and cap for applying the ointment inside the rectum.
• For adults only: It can be used by adults aged 18 and over, including those over 65, and is not recommended for under 18s.
• Available without a prescription: Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment is a General Sales List medicine.

What do the ingredients in Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment do?

The ointment is described as having antiseptic, astringent, emollient and decongestant properties. Hydrocortisone acetate has an anti-inflammatory action. Bismuth oxide, zinc oxide and bismuth subgallate protect mucous membranes and raw surfaces.

Does it contain a steroid, and how long can I use it?

Yes. It contains hydrocortisone acetate, a topical steroid. Do not use it for more than 7 days unless a doctor directs you to, because prolonged or excessive use of a topical steroid may produce systemic corticosteroid effects.

Can I use it if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. The product information says not to use it in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask a pharmacist or doctor about other options.

Active ingredients per 100g of ointment:

Other ingredients: Kaolin light, magnesium stearate, castor oil, cocoa butter, anhydrous lanolin, white petroleum jelly, calcium hydrogen phosphate.

For adults aged 18 and over, including those over 65. Not recommended for children under 18. Not to be taken orally.

1. Thoroughly clean the affected area and dry it.
2. Apply the ointment sparingly to the area on a gauze dressing.
3. For internal use, remove the nozzle cap, attach the rectal nozzle provided and apply.
4. Clean the nozzle after each use.

Apply at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement, up to a maximum of 4 applications a day. Use for a maximum of one week.

Please note the following before using this ointment:

• Do not use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Do not use if you are allergic to any of the active ingredients or other ingredients listed.
• Do not use on tubercular, fungal or most viral lesions, including herpes simplex, vaccinia and varicella.
• Talk to a doctor before use if you have rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, as this may be a symptom of a more serious condition.
• Do not use for more than 7 days unless a doctor directs you to. Because it contains a topical steroid, some of it may be absorbed into the body, and prolonged or excessive use may produce systemic corticosteroid effects.
• Stop using it and see a doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse, or if rectal bleeding occurs.
• Using other corticosteroid preparations, by skin or by mouth, at the same time may increase the likelihood of systemic effects.
• Medicines that inhibit CYP3A, including products containing cobicistat, are expected to increase the risk of systemic steroid effects. Avoid combining them unless a doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk.
• If you notice blurred vision or other visual disturbances, speak to a doctor, as these can be reported with topical corticosteroids.

The following side effects have been reported with the zinc oxide in this ointment. This list is not exhaustive.

• Rare: hypersensitivity (allergic reaction).
• Frequency not known: application site reactions, including burning, redness, peeling, irritation, pain, itching, rash and hives.
• Frequency not known: blurred vision.

Skin sensitisation reactions and systemic contact dermatitis attributed to balsam peru have also been reported in published literature.

Please report any suspected side effects to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.