If you are having an excruciating bout with external hemorrhoids, you should immediately contact a physician and obtain a prescription. Doctor-prescribed drugs are definitely safer than over-the-counter medication because you are using treatment based on a physician’s diagnosis of your condition. Moreover, prescription medications for external hemorrhoids have been approved by the FDA which means they are safe and highly-recommendable.
Here are prescription medications for external hemorrhoids that have been known to effectively ease the pain and discomfort brought about by the condition:
1. Analpram-HC
Generic name: Hydrocortisone Acetate
Form: Cream & Lotion
What it does: Heals the swelling, itchiness, irritation and pain of the anal area
How to use: Apply a bit of cream onto the affected area up to 4 times daily.
Possible side effects: Itching due to dried skin, severe allergic reactions, folliculitis, weight gain in the facial area, excessive hair growth, and rectal pain.
2. Anusol
Generic name: Zinc Oxide and Pramoxine
Form: Cream & Suppository
What it does: Treats itching and pain caused by piles or painful bowel movement
How to use: After bowel movement, clean the anus and pat it dry. Rub the cream on the anus. For the suppository, lie on your side and insert the suppository gently into the rectum.
Possible side effects: Dry or irritated skin, allergic reactions, pain in the rectum, itching or burning sensation not present before using the cream, and seizures.
3. Enzone
Generic name: Pramoxine and Hydrocortisone
Form: Cream, Lotion & Foam
What it does: Relieves itching and eliminates swollen piles on the anus
How to use: Apply the cream to the skin of the anus at least 3 times daily. If you are using the foam, shake the container first before application.
Possible side effects: Thinning of the skin, weight gain in the facial area, menstrual irregularities, impotence, and fatigue.
4. Lidocort
Generic name: Hydrocortisone and Lidocaine
Form: Cream, Lotion & Gel
What it does: Reduces itching and pain by numbing nerve endings in the skin
How to use: apply a dab of the cream, lotion or gel onto the anus then rub gently on the skin.
Possible side effects: Skin discoloration, swelling of skin tissue, and burning sensation on the affected area.
5. Lidoderm
Generic name: Lidocaine
Form: Patch
What it does: Blocks nerve signals and alleviates pain and discomfort
How to use: Place up to 3 patches of the medication onto the affected area then leave it there for 12 to 24 hours. You can cut the patch into smaller pieces if necessary.
Possible side effects: Blurred vision, heart palpitations, seizures, nausea and mild skin irritation.
6. Lidosense 5
Generic name: Lidocaine
Form: Cream
What it does: Lessens the pain and discomfort of piles
How to use: Wash the anus with soap and water then wipe it dry. Apply a small amount of the cream onto the area and rub gently.
Possible side effects: Allergies, irregular heartbeat, skin infection, trembling, and dizziness.
7. Proctosol-HC
Generic name: Hydrocortisone
Form: Cream, Ointment & Suppository
What it does: Eliminates inflammation and itching of the anus
How to use: For the cream and ointment, you may use an applicator to gently rub it on the affected area. Likewise, the suppository should be soothingly inserted into the anus.
Possible side effects: Weak muscles, weight gain on the face and abdomen, stomach pain, swollen ankles and feet, and increased hair growth.
8. ProctoCream-HC
Generic name: Hydrocortisone
Form: Cream, Ointment & Suppository
What it does: Gets rid of the itch and pain caused by hemorrhoids
How to use: Apply the ointment or cream onto the affected area after your regular bowel movement. For the suppository, insert it gently into the anus and refrain from using the bathroom for a couple of hours.
Possible side effects: Shortness of breath, bleeding from the rectum, acne, increased sweating, headache, and irregular menstrual periods.
9. Xyralid RC
Generic name: Lidocaine and Hydrocortisone with Psyllium
Form: Cream & Oral Granules
What it does: Treats swelling, itch and pain caused by piles and softens stool formations to prevent painful bowel movements
How to use: Each kit contains tubes of cream, applicators, disposable pads and psyllium granules. Use a pad to clean the anus then use an applicator to place the cream onto the affected area. Likewise, mix the psyllium with water or juice, and then drink immediately.
Possible side effects: Mood swings, blurred vision, thinning of the skin, fatigue, and insomnia.