Anusol Cream

Anusol Cream combines zinc oxide, bismuth oxide and balsam Peru to soothe and relieve the discomfort of haemorrhoids (piles).

  • Relieves itching, soreness and swelling of internal & external piles
  • Astringent ingredients help reduce swelling and protect irritated skin
  • Apply morning, night and after each bowel movement
  • Light, easily absorbed cream · use for up to 7 days
  • General sale medicine from a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy

£4.49

Anusol Cream provides soothing relief from the discomfort of haemorrhoids (piles). It combines zinc oxide, bismuth oxide and balsam Peru to calm itching and soreness, reduce swelling and protect the irritated skin around the back passage.

What is Anusol Cream?

Anusol Cream is a medicated cream for the relief of internal and external haemorrhoids and related anal discomfort. Zinc oxide and bismuth oxide are astringents that help shrink swelling and form a protective layer, while balsam Peru has a mild antiseptic action. It is a general sale (GSL) medicine supplied by a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy.

What is Anusol Cream used for?

  • Relieving the itching, soreness and discomfort of piles
  • Soothing internal and external haemorrhoids
  • Protecting irritated skin around the anus while it settles

How does Anusol Cream work?

The astringent ingredients tighten and soothe the inflamed tissue and form a protective barrier over the sore area, which helps reduce swelling and ease itching and discomfort.

How to use Anusol Cream

  • Gently wash and dry the affected area.
  • Apply the cream in the morning, at night, and after each bowel movement.
  • For internal piles, the cream can be applied inside the back passage.
  • Wash your hands before and after applying. Use for up to 7 days.

Please confirm the directions against the patient information leaflet inside your pack before use.

How long does Anusol Cream take to work?

Anusol Cream soothes itching and discomfort quickly on application, with swelling settling over a few days of regular use. If symptoms have not improved within 7 days, or you notice bleeding, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects of Anusol Cream

Anusol Cream is usually well tolerated. Occasionally it can cause mild local irritation, and rarely a sensitivity reaction to balsam Peru. Stop use and seek advice if irritation develops.

Anusol Cream vs Ointment and Anusol Plus HC

The cream is light and easily absorbed; the Anusol Ointment is greasier and longer-lasting – choose whichever feels more comfortable. Anusol Plus HC additionally contains hydrocortisone (a mild steroid) for short-term relief of inflammation and is a pharmacy medicine.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if symptoms last more than 7 days, if there is bleeding from the back passage, persistent pain or a lump, or if piles keep returning.

Buy Anusol Cream online

Order Anusol Cream from Bury Healthcare Online, a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy, with our pharmacy team on hand for advice.

Always read the label and the patient information leaflet before use. If symptoms do not improve, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Anusol Cream FAQs

What is Anusol Cream used for?
Anusol Cream relieves the discomfort of internal and external haemorrhoids (piles) and related anal itching and soreness. Its astringent ingredients (zinc oxide and bismuth oxide) help reduce swelling and form a soothing, protective layer, while balsam Peru is mildly antiseptic.
How do you use Anusol Cream?
Gently wash and dry the affected area first. Apply Anusol Cream in the morning, at night, and after each bowel movement. For internal piles, the cream can be applied inside the back passage. Wash your hands before and after use.
How long can you use Anusol Cream?
Use Anusol Cream for up to 7 days. If your symptoms have not improved after a week, or if you notice bleeding, see your doctor or pharmacist rather than continuing to self-treat.
Does Anusol Cream shrink piles?
Anusol Cream contains astringents (zinc oxide and bismuth oxide) that help reduce swelling and soothe the area, easing the symptoms of piles. It relieves discomfort and protects irritated skin; it is not a permanent cure, and persistent piles should be assessed by a clinician.
What is the difference between Anusol Cream and Anusol Ointment?
Both contain similar soothing, astringent ingredients for piles. The cream has a lighter, easily absorbed texture, while the Anusol Ointment is greasier and longer-lasting. Choose whichever you find more comfortable to apply.
What is the difference between Anusol Cream and Anusol Plus HC?
Anusol Plus HC also contains hydrocortisone, a mild steroid that reduces inflammation and itching, and is a pharmacy medicine for short-term use. Plain Anusol Cream contains no steroid and can be used for general soothing relief of piles.
Can you use Anusol Cream when pregnant or breastfeeding?
Piles are common in pregnancy. Anusol Cream is generally considered suitable, but you should check with your pharmacist, midwife or doctor before using it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What are the side effects of Anusol Cream?
Anusol Cream is usually well tolerated. Occasionally it can cause mild local irritation, and rarely a sensitivity reaction to balsam Peru (a rash or itching). Stop use and seek advice if irritation develops or worsens.
Can children use Anusol Cream?
Anusol Cream is not recommended for children under 12 unless a doctor advises it. Ask your pharmacist for suitable advice for a younger child.
When should you see a doctor about piles?
See your doctor if symptoms last longer than 7 days, if there is bleeding from the back passage, persistent pain, or a noticeable lump, or if piles keep coming back – these need proper assessment.