Hemorrhoid suppositories are a common over-the-counter treatment designed to address symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. These small, solid, and often oval-shaped medications are inserted into the rectum, where they dissolve at body temperature. Their primary function is to deliver medication directly to the affected rectal tissue, providing localized relief.
How Hemorrhoid Suppositories Work
Hemorrhoid suppositories release active ingredients directly into the rectal area after insertion. Body warmth causes the suppository’s base material, often cocoa butter or gelatin, to melt or dissolve. This allows medication absorption by surrounding tissues for targeted action.
Common active ingredients include hydrocortisone, phenylephrine, and pramoxine. Hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, reduces inflammation, swelling, and itching. Phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor, shrinks swollen blood vessels, reducing swelling and discomfort. Pramoxine acts as an anesthetic, numbing nerve endings for temporary pain and discomfort relief. Some suppositories also contain protective ingredients like zinc oxide or cocoa butter, forming a barrier to shield irritated tissue from stool contact; this local action differs from medications absorbed into the bloodstream.
Suppositories and Bowel Movements
Hemorrhoid suppositories alleviate symptoms like pain, itching, swelling, and inflammation; they are not intended to induce bowel movements. Their purpose is to treat hemorrhoidal tissue, not to act as a laxative. While a foreign object sensation or mild irritation might occasionally create a feeling of needing a bowel movement, this is an incidental effect, not their designed function.
Hemorrhoid suppositories differ from laxative suppositories, such as those with glycerin or bisacodyl. Laxative suppositories contain ingredients that stimulate bowel contractions or draw water into the colon to promote a bowel movement. Hemorrhoid suppositories, conversely, focus on anti-inflammatory, vasoconstrictive, or anesthetic actions. For optimal effectiveness, it is advised to have a bowel movement before insertion. This allows the medication to remain in contact with the affected tissue longer.
Important Considerations for Use
Proper insertion is important for effective use. Ensure the suppository is firm; if soft, chill it. Wash hands thoroughly before and after. To insert, lie on your side with one leg bent or stand with one foot on a raised surface, then gently insert the pointed end about one inch past the anal sphincter. Remaining still for a few minutes after insertion helps the suppository dissolve and the medication absorb properly.
Hemorrhoid suppositories are used two to four times daily for a short duration, no more than seven days. Prolonged use, especially of those with hydrocortisone, can lead to side effects like thinning rectal tissue or irritation. If symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience severe pain, increased bleeding, or changes in stool color (e.g., black stool), consult a healthcare professional. A medical evaluation can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.