Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are a short-course haemorrhoid treatment that helps calm inflammation and soothe irritated tissue from the inside, making internal piles symptoms like itching and soreness easier to manage.
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are designed specifically for internal haemorrhoids (piles) and itching around the anus (pruritus ani). Unlike the ointment version, suppositories work from the inside. This makes them ideal when the problem is internal rather than external. They’re designed for short-term symptom relief, especially when things feel sore, irritated, or inflamed deep inside the rectum [1].
One reason Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are popular is that they combine a mild steroid (hydrocortisone acetate) with protective and soothing ingredients, all in a form that’s easy to insert and stays where it’s needed. That matters because internal piles symptoms often come as a bundle: swelling, itching, soreness, and tissue that feels raw.
NICE CKS highlights that haemorrhoid care is usually about symptom control plus lifestyle steps (like avoiding constipation) [2].
Each suppository contains hydrocortisone acetate plus protective ingredients like bismuth oxide, zinc oxide, and balsam peru. The aim is simple: reduce inflammation, protect irritated tissue, and make day-to-day life more comfortable while the underlying flare settles. For official product details (including dosing limits), the SmPC and patient information leaflet are key references [3].
Helps relieve itching, soreness, and swelling linked with internal piles
Contains hydrocortisone acetate plus protective ingredients
Designed for internal use (inserted into the rectum)
Intended for short-term use (typically up to 7 days)
Works best alongside constipation prevention and gentle hygiene
MOJO WISDOM
Take control of your health by understanding your condition and what this medication is doing for you.
READ:
More information about this treatment.
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Discreet and Confidential
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Free, Expert Advice
No video link provided.
No video link provided.
UK-based doctors and pharmacists
Free, expert advice
Discrete and confidential
Fast delivery
Giving you trusted clinical advice for over 40 conditions
A UK regulated pharmacy providing safe, effective treatments online since 2014
This deep dive covers what Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are for, how they work, how to use them safely, what to watch out for, and the most common questions people ask before they try them.
Overview: Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are for short-term relief of internal piles symptoms and itching
They combine a mild steroid with protective ingredients to calm irritation from inside
Correct insertion and not overusing them is key to safety and results
Constipation prevention is often the real “long game” for haemorrhoids
Bleeding, severe pain, or a change in bowel habit needs medical review
Internal piles are common, and they’re not a sign you’ve “failed at adulthood.” They’re swollen blood vessels inside the rectum, often linked with straining, constipation, pregnancy, or long periods sitting on the loo. When they flare, the area can feel sore, itchy, and inflamed [1]. Unlike external piles, which you can see or feel on the outside, internal piles are inside, which means they can be harder to spot but easier to treat with a suppository.
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories focus on symptom relief from the inside out. They won’t remove haemorrhoids overnight, but they can make a flare much more manageable. The hydrocortisone helps reduce inflammation, while the other ingredients help protect and soothe the irritated tissue [3].
The big win is comfort. When symptoms settle, it’s easier to keep up with the boring-but-brilliant basics: fibre, fluids, and not straining. NICE CKS places a lot of emphasis on these supportive steps because they reduce recurrence and help healing [2].
Used properly, suppositories can be part of a sensible short-term plan. Used for too long or too often, topical steroids can irritate tissue or cause thinning. That’s why the dosing limit matters, even if it feels tempting to keep going “just in case”.
If you have red flags like persistent bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that don’t improve, don’t tough it out. Those signs need a proper assessment to rule out other causes.
Buy Anusol Plus HC Suppositories (Prescription Only)
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are a Pharmacy only medicine and do not require a prescription.
You can buy Anusol Plus HC Suppositories from courierpharmacy.co.uk by completing a quick online consultation. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers to make sure the treatment is safe and suitable for you.
How it works
Complete the online consultation
A prescriber reviews your answers
If approved, a prescription is issued
We dispense and deliver discreetly
If they aren’t suitable, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option.
Active ingredient in Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
The key active ingredient in Anusol Plus HC Suppositories is hydrocortisone acetate, a mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and itching.
The formulation also includes ingredients that help protect and soothe irritated tissue, which is useful when the inside of the rectum feels raw or tender during a haemorrhoid flare [3].
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories contain:
Hydrocortisone acetate
Benzyl benzoate
Bismuth subgallate
Bismuth oxide
Balsam peru
Zinc oxide
What are Anusol Plus HC Suppositories used for?
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are used for the symptomatic treatment of internal haemorrhoids and itching around the anus (pruritus ani) [3]. In plain terms: they're for when internal piles are making life uncomfortable and you want to calm things down quickly from the inside.
They're most suitable when symptoms are mainly irritation, itching, mild swelling, and soreness inside the rectum. If the main issue is heavy bleeding, severe pain, a hard lump, or symptoms that keep coming back, it's still worth speaking to a clinician because you may need a different plan (or a check that it really is haemorrhoids).
They can also be part of a broader haemorrhoid plan that includes stool-softening strategies. NICE CKS covers lifestyle measures and when to consider other treatments if symptoms persist [2].
How do Anusol Plus HC Suppositories work?
Anusol Plus HC Suppositories work in a few complementary ways. First, hydrocortisone acetate reduces local inflammation [3]. When tissue is inflamed, it tends to itch, swell, and feel sore. Calming that inflammation can reduce the "itch–scratch–irritate" cycle that keeps symptoms going.
Second, the protective ingredients form a barrier over irritated tissue [3]. Think of it like putting a gentle shield over tissue that's been rubbed raw. That barrier effect can reduce friction and help the area feel less tender during the day, especially after bowel movements.
Third, some ingredients have mild astringent or soothing properties [3]. That can help reduce weeping, irritation, and that unpleasant "everything feels a bit angry" sensation. The SmPC explains the intended local effects and notes that most ingredients act locally rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream [3].
Finally, the practical effect is comfort. And comfort matters because it makes it easier to do the basics that actually prevent recurrence: avoiding constipation, not straining, and keeping the area clean and dry without over-washing.
How to use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
Start by washing your hands with soap and water. Remove the suppository from its wrapper. If you find it easier, you can run it under cool water for a few seconds to make it slightly firmer, which can help with insertion. The NHS advice on piles includes gentle hygiene and avoiding triggers that worsen symptoms.
Insert the suppository into the anus, pointed end first. You can do this standing, squatting, or lying on your side—whatever feels most comfortable. Push it in gently until it's fully inside. Don't worry if it feels a bit odd at first; most people get used to it quickly. Wash your hands again after insertion [3].
Use one suppository at night, in the morning, and after each bowel movement, up to three times a day. Use them for a short course only, typically up to 7 days. If symptoms haven't improved by then, or if they worsen, stop and seek advice. NICE CKS outlines when to escalate care and what red flags should prompt review.
Warnings and precautions: Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
If you have rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, or a change in bowel habit, speak to a clinician before using Anusol Plus HC Suppositories. These symptoms can sometimes point to other conditions that need assessment [3].
Do not use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories if you have certain infections in the area, including fungal infections or viral lesions such as herpes simplex. Steroids can worsen some infections by reducing local immune response [3].
Avoid prolonged or excessive use. Even though hydrocortisone is mild, topical steroids can cause tissue thinning and irritation if overused, and there is a possibility of systemic absorption, especially with frequent application or broken tissue [3].
Do not use in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a clinician specifically advises it. The SmPC notes limited safety evidence and recommends avoidance in these groups [3].
If you notice blurred vision or other visual disturbances, stop and seek medical advice. Visual disturbance has been reported with topical and systemic corticosteroids and may need assessment [3].
Side effects: Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
Many people use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories without problems, especially when used for a short course. The most likely side effects are local reactions at the application site, such as burning, irritation, redness, pain, itching, rash, or hives [3].
Allergic reactions can happen, although they're uncommon. If you develop swelling, severe itching, widespread rash, or feel unwell, stop using them and seek urgent advice [3].
With prolonged or excessive use, topical steroids can cause thinning of the tissue, or visible small blood vessels. This is one reason the 7-day limit matters [3].
If symptoms don't improve, worsen, or bleeding occurs, stop and get checked. NHS and NICE both emphasise that persistent or worsening symptoms need review.
Drug interactions: Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
Because Anusol Plus HC Suppositories are applied locally, interactions are less common than with tablets. However, using other corticosteroid products at the same time (topical or oral) can increase the chance of systemic steroid effects, especially if used frequently or over large areas [3].
Co-treatment with strong CYP3A inhibitors (including some HIV medicines such as cobicistat-containing products) may increase the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects. In practice, this is a "tell your prescriber" situation so they can weigh up risk and monitor if needed [3].
If you're using other rectal treatments (suppositories, creams, ointments), it's worth spacing applications and checking compatibility. Too many products at once can irritate the area or make it hard to tell what's helping.
If you're unsure, a quick medication check with a pharmacist is sensible, especially if you're on long-term steroid therapy, immunosuppressants, or medicines that affect bleeding risk.
FAQ: Anusol Plus HC Suppositories
What are Anusol Plus HC Suppositories used for?
They're used for short-term relief of symptoms from internal haemorrhoids and itching around the anus.
How quickly do Anusol Plus HC Suppositories work?
Some people feel relief from itching and soreness within a day or two, but it can take several days for symptoms to settle. If there's no improvement after 7 days, seek advice.
Are Anusol Plus HC Suppositories only for internal piles?
Yes, they're designed for internal use. If you have external piles, the ointment version may be more suitable.
How do I insert Anusol Plus HC Suppositories?
Remove the wrapper, wash your hands, and insert the suppository into the anus pointed end first. You can do this standing, squatting, or lying on your side.
How often can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories?
Up to three times a day: at night, in the morning, and after each bowel movement.
How long can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories for?
Usually up to 7 days unless a clinician advises otherwise.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Just use one when you remember, but don't exceed three in a day.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories in pregnancy?
The SmPC advises not to use them in pregnancy unless specifically directed by a clinician.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories while breastfeeding?
The SmPC advises not to use them while breastfeeding unless specifically directed by a clinician.
Can Anusol Plus HC Suppositories cause tissue thinning?
Yes, topical steroids can thin tissue if used too long or too often. That's why short-course use matters.
What if I have bleeding with piles?
Bleeding should be assessed, especially if it's persistent, heavy, or new. NHS and NICE advise speaking to a clinician in these cases.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories with other haemorrhoid treatments?
It's best to avoid layering lots of products at once. If you need more than one, ask a pharmacist how to space them to reduce irritation.
Do Anusol Plus HC Suppositories cure haemorrhoids?
They treat symptoms, not the underlying cause. Preventing constipation and straining is key for longer-term control.
What lifestyle changes help alongside Anusol Plus HC Suppositories?
Fibre, fluids, not straining, and avoiding long toilet sitting are all helpful. NICE CKS covers these steps in detail.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories if I have a fungal infection?
No. The SmPC lists fungal lesions as a contraindication.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories if I have herpes?
No. Viral lesions such as herpes simplex are listed as a contraindication.
Can Anusol Plus HC Suppositories affect my eyes?
Rarely, blurred vision has been reported with topical steroids. If this happens, stop and seek medical advice.
What are the most common side effects?
Local irritation, burning, redness, itching, rash, or hives at the application site.
Can I use Anusol Plus HC Suppositories if I'm on steroid tablets?
Tell your prescriber or pharmacist. Using multiple steroid products can increase the chance of systemic effects.
Can Anusol Plus HC Suppositories interact with HIV medicines?
Some strong CYP3A inhibitors (including cobicistat-containing products) may increase the risk of systemic steroid effects. This needs clinician review.
When should I seek urgent help?
Seek urgent advice if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, feel faint, or have symptoms that don't improve or worsen. NHS and NICE outline red flags and when to get checked.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
