How to select OTC drugs for hemorrhoids: Choose a drug according to the type and location of hemorrhoids

How to select OTC drugs for hemorrhoids: Choose a drug according to the type and location of hemorrhoids

External medicine and oral medicine

Medicines for hemorrhoids include "external medicine" to be used directly on the affected area inside or outside the anus and "oral medicine."Generally, external medicines are mainstream.

External medicine

It relieves pain, itching, bleeding, and inflammation of hemorrhoids (piles) and anal fissure. Some ingredients are bactericidal.

Oral medicine

It relieves inflammation and improves blood circulation. This includes tablets, capsules, and granules. Since the ingredients spread all over the body, the effect appears slowly compared with external medicines.

Dosage form of external medicine

External medicines include "suppositories," "ointments," and "solution for external use (including aerosols)." Suppositories and ointments are the mainstream. Ointments include ointment and ointment in prefilled disposable applicators.

Suppositories

Main types of hemorrhoids for use
Internal hemorrhoids (piles)
Site of use
Used on the affected area inside the anus

Ointments/Ointment

Main types of hemorrhoids for use
External hemorrhoids (piles), Anal fissure
Site of use
Used on the affected area outside the anus or around the anus

Ointments/ointment in prefilled disposable applicators

Main types of hemorrhoids for use
Internal hemorrhoids (piles), External hemorrhoids (piles), Anal fissure
Site of use
Infused into the affected area inside the anus, and applied to the affected area outside or around the anus

Solution for external use

Main types of hemorrhoids for use
External hemorrhoids (piles), Anal fissure
Site of use
Used on the affected area outside the anus or around the anus

*If the symptoms do not improve after using OTC external medicine for about 10 days or oral medicine for about one month, consult a hospital.

This article is supervised by:
Dr. Junichi Iwadare
Dr. Akio Kurokawa
Dr. Rikisaburo Sahara
Back to Page Top