Anal Itching (cont.)
Vasoconstrictors
Vasoconstrictors are chemicals that resemble epinephrine, a
naturally occurring chemical. Applied to the anus, vasoconstrictors make the
blood vessels become smaller, which may reduce swelling. They also may reduce
pain and itching due to their mild anesthetic effect.
Vasoconstrictors applied
to the perianal area - unlike vasoconstrictors that are taken orally or by
injection - have a low likelihood of causing serious side effects, such as
high
blood pressure, nervousness, tremor,
sleeplessness, and aggravation of
diabetes
or hyperthyroidism.
Examples of vasoconstrictors include:
- ephedrine sulfate 0.1% to 1.25%
- epinephrine 0.005% to 0.01%
- phenylephrine 0.25% (Medicone Suppository, Preparation H, Rectocaine)
Protectants
Protectants prevent irritation of the perianal area by forming a
physical barrier on the skin that prevents contact of the irritated skin with
aggravating liquid or stool from the rectum. This barrier reduces irritation,
itching, pain, and burning. There are many products that are themselves
protectants or that contain a protectant in addition to other medications.
Examples of protectants include:
- aluminum hydroxide gel
- cocoa butter
- glycerin
- kaolin
- lanolin
- mineral oil (Balneol)
- white petrolatum
- starch
- zinc oxide (Desitin) or
calamine (which contains zinc oxide) in
concentrations of up to 25%
- cod liver oil or shark liver oil if the amount of vitamin A is 10,000 USP
units/day.
Next: Astringents »
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