Anusol Oint 25g

Anusol Ointment combines zinc oxide, bismuth subgallate, bismuth oxide and balsam Peru to soothe and relieve internal and external haemorrhoids (piles).

  • Relieves itching, soreness and swelling of internal & external piles
  • Astringent ingredients help reduce swelling and protect irritated skin
  • Greasier, longer-lasting alternative to Anusol Cream
  • Apply morning, night and after each bowel movement
  • General sale medicine from a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy

£4.29

Anusol Ointment provides soothing relief from the discomfort of internal and external haemorrhoids (piles) and related anal itching and soreness. It combines zinc oxide, bismuth subgallate, bismuth oxide and balsam Peru in a richer, longer-lasting ointment base that clings to the skin while it settles.

What is Anusol Ointment?

Anusol Ointment is a medicated ointment for piles and related anal discomfort. Zinc oxide and the bismuth salts 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 Ointment used for?

  • Relieving the itching, soreness and discomfort of internal and external piles
  • Soothing pruritus ani (itching around the back passage)
  • Protecting and soothing the skin after related ano-rectal discomfort

How does Anusol Ointment work?

The astringent ingredients (zinc oxide, bismuth subgallate and bismuth oxide) tighten and soothe the inflamed tissue and form a protective barrier over the sore area, which helps reduce swelling and ease itching and discomfort. Balsam Peru adds a mild antiseptic effect.

How to use Anusol Ointment

  • Gently wash and dry the affected area.
  • Apply the ointment at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement.
  • For internal piles, use the ointment with care around and just inside the back passage.
  • Wash your hands before and after applying.

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

Anusol Ointment vs Anusol Cream

Both contain the same family of soothing, astringent ingredients. The Anusol Cream is lighter and absorbs quickly, while the ointment is greasier and longer-lasting, so it stays in contact with the sore area for longer and can also help lubricate when inserting suppositories. Choose whichever feels more comfortable.

How long does Anusol Ointment take to work?

It 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 Ointment

Anusol Ointment 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.

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. If you also need to calm inflammation, ask our pharmacist about Anusol Plus HC Ointment, which adds hydrocortisone.

Buy Anusol Ointment online

Order Anusol Ointment 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 Ointment FAQs

What is Anusol Ointment used for?
Anusol Ointment relieves the itching, soreness and discomfort of internal and external haemorrhoids (piles) and pruritus ani. Its astringent ingredients (zinc oxide and bismuth salts) help reduce swelling and form a soothing, protective layer, while balsam Peru is mildly antiseptic.
What is the difference between Anusol Ointment and Anusol Cream?
Both contain similar soothing, astringent ingredients for piles. The cream is lighter and absorbs quickly, while the ointment is greasier and longer-lasting, staying in contact with the sore area for longer. Choose whichever you find more comfortable to apply.
How do you use Anusol Ointment?
Gently wash and dry the affected area first. Apply the ointment at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement. For internal piles it can be used with care around and just inside the back passage. Wash your hands before and after use.
Does Anusol Ointment shrink piles?
It contains astringents (zinc oxide and bismuth salts) 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.
How long can you use Anusol Ointment?
Use it for up to 7 days. If symptoms have not improved after a week, or if you notice bleeding, see your doctor or pharmacist rather than continuing to self-treat.
What is the difference between Anusol Ointment 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 Ointment contains no steroid and can be used for general soothing relief of piles.
Can you use Anusol Ointment when pregnant or breastfeeding?
Piles are common in pregnancy. Anusol Ointment 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 Ointment?
It 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 Ointment?
Anusol Ointment is intended for adults. Ask your pharmacist for suitable advice before using it for a 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.