Hemorrhoids Medication

Updated: May 31, 2022
  • Author: Kyle R Perry, MD; Chief Editor: John Geibel, MD, MSc, DSc, AGAF  more...
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Medication

Medication Summary

The goals of pharmacotherapy are to reduce pain and constipation in patients with hemorrhoids.

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Stool softeners

Class Summary

Stool-softening agents are used to avoid straining and constipation.

Docusate sodium (Colace, Correctol, Dok, Dulcolax)

Docusate is indicated for patients who should avoid straining during defecation. This agent allows incorporation of water and fat into stool, causing stool to soften.

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Topical anesthetics

Class Summary

Topical anesthetic agents are indicated for pain.

Lidocaine ointment 5% (Lidoderm, Regenecare, LidaMantle)

Topical lidocaine increases permeability to sodium ions in neuronal membranes, resulting in inhibition of depolarization, blocking transmission of nerve impulses.

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Mild astringent

Class Summary

This agent is used to relieve itching.

Hamamelis water (Witch Hazel)

Hamamelis water is a mild astringent prepared from twigs of Hamamelis virginiana. This agent is used to temporarily relieve the itching of hemorrhoids.

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Analgesics

Class Summary

Pain control is essential to quality patient care. Analgesics ensure patient comfort, which is beneficial for patients who have painful lesions.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Aspirin Free Anacin, Feverall, Mapap)

Acetaminophen is the drug of choice (DOC) for treatment of pain in patients with documented hypersensitivity to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with upper gastrointestinal (GI) disease, or who are taking oral anticoagulants. This agent reduces fever by direct action on the hypothalamic heat-regulating centers, which increases dissipation of body heat via vasodilation and sweating.

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