Nearly all proprietary products licensed for OTC treatment of haemorrhoids contain combinations of two or more active constituents, the main types of which are local anaesthetics, astringents and anti-inflammatories. Some products contain constituents that do not strictly fall into any of these groups. All are discussed in this module.
Activity point
Without checking the packaging, can you name the local anaesthetics, astringents and anti-inflammatories in haemorrhoid preparations that you stock? How many restrictions and cautions for use of haemorrhoid preparations can you list before reading this article? Check your answers and identify any knowledge gaps