Anusol HC Suppositories

Hydrocortisone Acetate, Zinc Oxide, Bismuth Oxide, Bismuth Subgallate, Balsam Peru, Benzyl Benzoate

What the medicine is for

Anusol HC Suppositories help to relieve the pain, swelling, itch and irritation of internal piles

(haemorrhoids) and anal itching. It contains the following ingredients:

Hydrocortisone acetate is a mild steroid which helps reduce inflammation.

Zinc oxide and Bismuth salts are mildly astringent and antiseptic. They soothe and protect raw areas.

Balsam Peru is mildly antiseptic and has a protective action on sore areas and may help healing. Benzyl benzoate has mild antiseptic properties.

This product is for use by adults over the age of 18 years.

Before using this medicine

This medicine is suitable for most people but a few people should not use it. If you are in any doubt, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not use this medicine

• If you have ever had a bad reaction to Anusol or any of its ingredients.
• If you have fungal, viral or bacterial skin sores.
• If any of these apply to you, get advice from a doctor or pharmacist without using Anusol.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist

• If you have rectal bleeding or if you are in doubt whether any bleeding you have experienced is caused by piles.
• If symptoms worsen or do not improve after you have used the medicine for 7 days.
• If any of these bullet points apply to you, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
• lf you are pregnant or breast-feeding
• If you are pregnant, only use on the advice of your doctor.
• If you are breast-feeding you can use this medicine.

How to use this medicine

Anusol HC Suppositories should be inserted into the anus

Wash anal area and dry gently with a soft towel before using this medicine.

Remove plastic cover from the suppository before use.

Wash your hands before and after using Anusol.

Children (under 18 years):

This medicine is not recommended for children under 18 years old.

Adults and the elderly:

Age	Dose
Adults and the elderly	Insert one suppository deeply into the back passage (anus). You should use as often as prescribed by your doctor, however Anusol HC Suppositories are usually used at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement.
Do NOT take orallyDo not use more than 3 suppositories a day unless prescribed otherwise by your doctor Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days

If anyone has used too much or swallowed this product.

If anyone has used too much or has accidentally swallowed Anusol HC Suppositories, contact a doctor or your nearest Accident and Emergency department (Casualty), taking this leaflet and pack with you.

If you forget to use this medicine

If you forget a dose, use the next dose when needed. Do not use a double dose.

Possible side-effects

Anusol HC Suppositories can have side-effects, like all medicines, although these don’t affect everyone and are usually mild.

If you experience the following, stop using the medicine and tell your doctor:

Sensitivity reactions (such as a rash) which occur rarely.

Other effects which may occur include:

Mild irritation or burning on application. This does not usually last a longtime, so if this becomes troublesome or lasts longer than a few days, tell your doctor.

The above are mild side effects, which will usually stop when you stop using the suppositories. If you experience any side-effects not included in this leaflet or are not sure of anything, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Storing this medicine

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Do not store above 25°C.

Do not use your medicine after the date shown as an expiry date on the packaging.

Further information

What’s in this medicine?

The active substances per suppositories are:

Hydrocortisone acetate 10 mg, Zinc oxide 296 mg, Bismuth subgallate 59 mg, Balsam Peru 49 mg, Bismuth oxide 24 mg and Benzyl benzoate 33 mg. Other ingredients are: Kaolin light, suppocire BS2 pastilles (hard fat).

What the medicine looks like

Anusol HC Suppositories are white suppositories available in plastic strips with two strips (12 suppositories) in a box.

A Healthy Living Plan for Piles Sufferers What are piles?

Piles (haemorrhoids) are swollen blood vessels which occur inside or outside the back passage (anus).

Symptoms

Some people have piles without experiencing any symptoms, but sufferers may notice the following:

Bleeding: Although streaks of bright red blood on the toilet paper are not uncommon in people with piles, it may be a sign of a more serious condition and you should see your doctor to check this.

Swelling: The swollen blood vessels may be felt as a lump or blockage in the anus.

Pain, itching and irritation in the anal region. At least 40% of people suffer from piles at some time in their lives. However, many people are too embarrassed to seek advice or treatment and, as a result, suffer unnecessary discomfort. Fortunately, there is much you can do to ease the situation and relieve the symptoms.

What causes piles?

A number of factors can contribute to the development of piles:

The most common cause is straining during bowel movement, usually as a result of constipation.

During pregnancy, the growing baby exerts increased pressure on the anal vessels, which can lead to piles.

Heredity: you may be more likely to develop piles if your family has a history of suffering.

A Healthy Living Plan for Piles Sufferers

You can reduce the risk of piles by following a healthy diet and lifestyle that helps to keep your bowels working regularly and prevents constipation. This can also help to speed recovery from piles.

Eat a high fibre diet including foods like brown rice, wholemeal bread, wholewheat pasta etc.

Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and salads.

Drink plenty of water.

Don’t eat too much salty, fatty or sugary foods such as crisps, burgers and cakes.

Cut back on the amount of alcohol, tea and coffee you drink.

Exercise regularly.

A healthy diet and lifestyle will reduce the likelihood of constipation and encourage a regular bowel habit. Go to the toilet regularly and try to avoid straining. Leaning forward from the hips may help.

For external and internal piles, Ointment can be used. If internal haemorrhoids are the problem, Suppositories deliver a measured dose to the affected area.