Preparation H is a medication primarily used to alleviate the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. It is available in various forms, including creams, ointments, and suppositories, each designed to provide targeted relief. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Preparation H, its uses, how it works, potential side effects, and important precautions to consider before use.
What is Preparation H and What Is It Used For?
Preparation H is a brand name associated with rectal phenylephrine products, often used to reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Rectal phenylephrine is commonly used to relieve swelling, itching, burning, irritation, and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids or other rectal problems. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by a health care provider. Some Preparation H products contain additional ingredients that act as protectants to provide further relief. These ingredients can include petrolatum, mineral oil, or cocoa butter.
How Does Preparation H Work?
The active ingredient in many Preparation H products, phenylephrine, is a sympathomimetic amine. Rectal phenylephrine works by causing the blood vessels in the applied area to shrink. This vasoconstriction helps to reduce swelling and irritation associated with hemorrhoids or other rectal issues, providing temporary relief from discomfort. Certain formulations also contain pramoxine HCL, a local anesthetic that relieves pain and itching.
Forms and Strengths
Preparation H is available in several forms to suit different needs and preferences:
- Cream: Available in 0.25% strength.
- Ointment: Available in 0.25% strength, providing a soothing layer of protection.
- Suppository: Available in 0.25% strength, designed for internal hemorrhoid relief.
Phenylephrine is also available in nasal and oral forms, but this article focuses specifically on its rectal use in Preparation H products.
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How to Use Preparation H
It is crucial to follow the directions provided on the product package or as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. Preparation H Multi-Symptom Pain Relief Cream is designed for external use or insertion into the lower portion of the anal canal only.
General Directions:
- Adults should cleanse the affected area by patting or blotting with an appropriate cleansing wipe.
- Gently dry the area by patting or blotting with a tissue or a soft cloth before applying the cream or ointment.
- Apply the product to the affected area up to 4 times daily, especially at night, in the morning, and after each bowel movement.
Application with Dispensing Cap (for Cream):
- Remove the protective cover from the dispensing cap and attach the cap to the tube.
- Lubricate the dispensing cap and gently insert it partway into the rectum.
- Squeeze the tube to apply the cream in the lower portion of the anal canal.
- Thoroughly cleanse the cap after each use and replace the protective cover.
Application of Ointment:
- For external use, apply a dime-size amount to the tip of your finger and apply externally or to the lower portion of the anal canal.
- To use it internally, remove the applicator cap, attach applicator to the tube, lubricate the applicator well, and gently insert the applicator into the rectum. Thoroughly cleanse the applicator after each use and replace the cover.
Suppositories: Follow the step-by-step instructions included with the product for proper insertion.
For children under 12 years of age, it is essential to consult a doctor before using Preparation H.
Important Considerations Before Use
Before using Preparation H, it is important to inform your health care provider about any existing health conditions, allergies, and all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
Specifically, discuss the following:
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- Allergies: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to phenylephrine, pramoxine, or any other ingredients in the product.
- Current and Past Health Conditions:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid problems
- Diabetes
- Trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate
- Other Medicines and Supplements: Rectal phenylephrine may interact with other medicines and supplements.
- Pregnancy: It is not known if or how rectal phenylephrine could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus.
- Breastfeeding: It is not known if rectal phenylephrine passes into breast milk.
Potential Side Effects
Many people using rectal phenylephrine do not experience any side effects. However, it is important to be aware of potential adverse reactions.
Common Side Effects:
- Mild pain or stinging may occur.
Serious Side Effects (less common):
- Severe Allergic Reactions: These can be serious. Discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin (hives)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you experience any bothersome or concerning symptoms, contact your health care provider. In Canada, side effects can be reported to Health Canada.
Warnings and Precautions
- Allergies: Do not use rectal phenylephrine if you are allergic to phenylephrine, Preparation H, or any of the product's ingredients.
- When to Stop Use: Stop using rectal phenylephrine and consult your health care provider if:
- Your symptoms worsen.
- You do not notice improvement after seven days.
- You experience bleeding.
- The applicator causes increased pain.
- Applicator Use: If using a product with a reusable applicator, clean it thoroughly with soap and water after each use.
- Keep Out of Reach of Children: Rectal phenylephrine should not be swallowed and should only be used in the rectal area.
Interactions
Drug Interactions:
- Always inform your health care provider about all medications and supplements you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
- Pay particular attention if you are taking any medicine to lower your blood pressure.
- There may be other medicines that can interact with rectal phenylephrine. Always check with your health care provider.
Food and Drink Interactions:
- There are no known interactions between rectal phenylephrine and foods or drinks.
- It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect rectal phenylephrine.
Overdose and Missed Dose
Overdose: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away.
Missed Dose: If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose at the regular time.
Storage
Store rectal phenylephrine at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Different brands may have different storage needs, so check the product package for specific instructions. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.
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Lifestyle Adjustments
In addition to using Preparation H, certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage and prevent hemorrhoids:
- Diet: A high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation and reduce straining during bowel movements.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent constipation.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity may help reduce the risk of flare-ups.
- Hygiene: Gently cleanse the anal area after each bowel movement.
Cream vs. Ointment
What separates hemorrhoid ointment from cream is its oil-to-water ratio. Ointments tend to have a higher oil concentration whereas creams have more water than oil. In addition, Preparation H Ointment relieves internal and external hemorrhoids. It contains the active ingredient Phenylephrine HCl , which shrinks hemorrhoid tissue and soothes hemorrhoid symptoms. It also contains mineral oil and petrolatum to provide soothing relief from itching, burning and discomfort. Preparation H Hemorrhoid Cream relieves external hemorrhoids and provides maximum strength relief from pain, burning, itching and discomfort. In addition to Phenylephrine HCl, it also contains Pramoxine HCL, a local anesthetic that relieves pain and itching.
How Long Does It Take for Hemorrhoid Ointment to Work?
Hemorrhoid ointment should work after consistently applying it as directed for 7 days. If symptoms persist after 7 days of consistent use, consult your doctor.
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