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🟩 Hydrocortisone 1% Cream🔗→

Hydrocortisone 1% cream helps reduce inflammation by calming the local inflammation, which relieves itching, redness, and swelling around the anus.
It is most effective for short-term hemorrhoid flare-ups and provides targeted relief of irritation and discomfort.

**Pharmacist Tips**

• Apply a thin layer to the affected external area up to 2–3 times daily, typically after bowel movements and gentle cleansing.

• Use should generally be limited to no more than 7 days to avoid potential skin thinning or irritation with prolonged use.

• Wash hands before and after application.

• Do not use on broken or infected skin. 

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🟩 Tucks® Witch Hazel Pads🔗→

Contain witch hazel, a natural astringent that helps tighten irritated tissue, reduce minor bleeding, and soothe burning and itching.

They are especially helpful after bowel movements or during postpartum recovery when the area is particularly sensitive. The cooling effect can provide gentle, non-medicated relief.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Gently press the pad against the affected area for 30–60 seconds rather than wiping to avoid further irritation.

• For added comfort, store the pads in the refrigerator to enhance the cooling relief.

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🟩 RectiCare® Lidocaine 5% Cream🔗→

RectiCare® contains lidocaine 5%, a maximum-strength topical numbing agent that works by blocking nerve signals to provide fast relief from pain, burning, and itching during severe hemorrhoid flare-ups.

It helps control discomfort quickly but does not reduce underlying inflammation or swelling.

**Pharmacist Tips**  

• Apply a small amount to the affected external area up to 3–4 times daily as needed, especially before bowel movements for added comfort.

• Avoid use on broken or severely irritated skin, and discontinue if numbness persists longer than directed or if irritation develops.

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🟩 Vaseline® (Lubricant Gel)🔗→

Vaseline® acts mainly as a preventive barrier by reducing friction during bowel movements. When applied externally, it helps stool pass more easily and with less irritation to swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. It also protects sensitive skin from moisture and rubbing that can worsen discomfort.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Apply a small amount around the anal opening just before a bowel movement to help reduce friction.

• By minimizing irritation and repeated rubbing, it can support comfort and promote healing.

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🟩 Preparation H® Cream /Suppositories🔗→

Preparation H® products contain vasoconstrictors that temporarily shrink swollen hemorrhoidal veins, helping relieve pressure, discomfort, and the feeling of fullness.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Use after bowel movements for best effect.

• Suppositories are best suited for internal hemorrhoids, while creams are designed to target external itching, burning, and irritation.

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🟩 Stool Softener (Docusate Sodium)🔗→

Docusate sodium is a stool softener that helps draw water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
By reducing straining during bowel movements (the main trigger for hemorrhoid flare-ups) it supports healing and helps prevent worsening or enlargement of hemorrhoids.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Take with a full glass of water and maintain adequate fiber intake for best results.

• Stool softeners are most helpful for prevention and recovery, not for immediate relief of severe constipation. 

• It is generally gentle enough for short-term daily use during recovery.

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🟩 Ibuprofen (Advil®)🔗→

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps reduce inflammation and swelling in hemorrhoidal tissue, easing pain, pressure, and tenderness during active flare-ups.

It is most effective for short-term symptom control and can provide additional relief when topical treatments are not enough.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Take with food or milk to help minimize stomach irritation.

• Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.

• Avoid use if you have a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, are on blood thinners, or are already taking other NSAIDs unless advised by a healthcare professional.

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🟩 Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)🔗→

Acetaminophen provides pain relief without increasing bleeding risk or irritating the stomach lining.

It is a good option for individuals who cannot take NSAIDs, have sensitive stomachs, or are using medications that may interact with ibuprofen. While it helps relieve pain and discomfort, it does not reduce inflammation.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Watch for other products that contain aetaminophen to prevent duplicate use that could result in liver damage if dose exceeds maximum dose.

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🟩 Sitz bath for Hemorrhoids🔗→

A sitz bath is a small plastic basin that fits over a toilet seat and holds warm water to soothe the anal and rectal area.

It helps relieve pain, itching, burning, and muscle spasms caused by hemorrhoids by improving blood flow and relaxing irritated tissue. Regular use can also support healing after bowel movements or during postpartum recovery.

**Pharmacist Tips** 

• Place the basin securely on the toilet seat and fill it with warm (not hot) water. Sit in the bath for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily or after bowel movements.

• Do not add soap or bubble bath, as these may irritate the skin. Afterward, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel—avoid rubbing.