15G ANUSOL PLUS HC OINTMENT

Anusol Plus HC Ointment is used for the treatment of haemorrhoids (piles) and pruritus ani (itching around the anus). Haemorrhoids are enlarged or swollen blood vessels which can cause varying degrees of discomfort, itch and irritation, particularly after a bowel movement. They may either be internal (inside the anus) or external (outside the anus). Anusol Plus HC Ointment may be used for either of these conditions.

Before you start to use Anusol Pluc HC Ointment :

* Are you pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding?

* Have you ever had a reaction to Anusol Plus HC, any of its ingredients or other similar products?

* Do you have any rectal bleeding? (Although bleeding, shown as streaks of blood on toilet paper, is not uncommon in people with piles, it may be a sign of a more serious condition and you should see your doctor to check this).

* Are you under 18 years or are you going to use Anusol Plus HC to treat a child? (Anusol Plus HC Ointment is not recommended for anyone under 18 years)

* Are you already using another product containing hydrocortisone or another steroid? You may use Anusol Plus HC Ointment and Anusol Plus HC Suppositories at the same time. However, if you are using any other steroid product then you should consult your doctor.

If you answer yes to any of these questions, do not use Anusol Plus HC Ointment. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist at once

Side Effects :- As with all medicines, Anusol Plus HC can sometimes cause side effects. A burning, itching or stinging is occasionally felt round the anus. Very rarely there are sensitivity reactions, such as rash. If you get these, or any other unusual effects, stop using Anusol Plus HC and tell your doctor or pharmacist

Warning

* Do not swallow or apply ointment to any part of the body except the area around the anus or into the rectum using the applicator.

* Do not use for longer than seven days. If the condition gets worse or if rectal bleeding starts, consult a doctor

* If you accidentally swallow the ointment, tell your doctor at once

* Remember, as with all medicines, keep Anusol Plus HC Ointment well away from children

* Keep the ointment in a dry place at normal room temperature (below 25ºC) in the packaging it comes in

* Do not use the ointment after the expiry date on the package

Advice for Pile Sufferers :

Wash with soap and warm water after each bowel motion and dry with a soft towel before applying an anti-haemorrhoidal product. Good anal hygiene is important for the treatment of piles.

A regular bowel habit is important. Do not neglect the call to move your bowels; postponing natural bowel action will weaken it. Open your bowels regularly. Do not try to pass the last part of the stool if this means straining.

The passing of hard stools is not only painful but it may also involve straining and cause bleeding. A good diet helps to ensure good bowel action and the formation of softer bulkier stools. It is good to include plenty of fibre in your diet because it helps to hold water and produce well-formed stools. Wheat bran is an effective source of fibre, helping to relieve constipation. Vegetables and fruit fibres vary in their ability to absorb water, but carrots, Brussels sprouts, aubergine, spring cabbage, corn, apples, pears, and oranges are all known to have good water absorption capacities.

Do not strain during bowel movements. Leaning forward from the hips may help. Prolonged sitting on the toilet as well as straining causes pressure which can lead to piles

If extra protection for dry, irritated skin is needed ointment can be used. If internal Haemorrhoids are the problem, suppositories deliver a measured dose to the affected area.

Many people who suffer from piles are too embarrased to ask for information. Two free booklets, PILES, Looking After a Common Personal Problem, which gives more detailed information and Discomfors in Pregnancy, which is for pregnant mothers and describes and advises on minor ailments suffered during pregnancy, including piles, are both available from :

Anusol Advisory Bureau, FREEPOST FG 361, 17-19 Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1BR