balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide at a glance
Medicine type
Rectal corticosteroid with protective, astringent and mild antiseptic ingredients
Main role
Symptom relief for haemorrhoids and anal itching
Available forms
Ointment for internal or external symptoms; suppositories for internal symptoms
Age group
Intended for adults; not recommended under 18
Important point
For anal use only; do not swallow
What is balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide used for?
These products relieve symptoms rather than cure the underlying condition.
Internal haemorrhoids: ointment or suppositories
External haemorrhoids: ointment
Pruritus ani, meaning itching around the anus
How does balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide work?
Hydrocortisone reduces inflammation, swelling, itching and discomfort. Zinc oxide and bismuth compounds form a protective, mildly astringent layer. Balsam Peru has protective and mild antiseptic properties; benzyl benzoate mainly aids solubilisation, preservation and mild antiseptic activity.
How to take balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide
Follow the product leaflet or prescriber's directions. Do not take these products by mouth.
Wash your hands before and after use; gently clean and dry the affected area.
For external symptoms, apply the ointment to the affected area as directed.
For internal symptoms, use the ointment's rectal nozzle and clean it afterwards.
Unwrap suppositories and insert them gently into the anus.
balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide side effects
Common or expected effects
- Briefly increased burning when first applied
- Local irritation, redness, itching, pain or rash
Get urgent medical advice
- A spreading or worsening inflamed area, which may indicate infection
- Blurred vision or another new visual disturbance
- Hives or a serious allergic reaction
- Skin thinning or, rarely, effects elsewhere in the body after excessive or prolonged corticosteroid exposure
balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide in pregnancy
The selected product information states that this combination should not be used during pregnancy. Ask a doctor, midwife or pharmacist for a suitable alternative.
balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide while breastfeeding
The selected product information states that this combination should not be used while breastfeeding. Broader specialist guidance considers similar topical combinations compatible because expected absorption is low, so check product-specific advice with a prescriber or pharmacist.
balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide interactions
Tell a pharmacist or prescriber about other medicines, including products applied to the skin or rectum.
Other corticosteroids
Concurrent oral or topical corticosteroids may increase systemic corticosteroid effects.
Strong CYP3A inhibitors, including cobicistat-containing medicines
These can increase hydrocortisone exposure and systemic corticosteroid effects; combined use requires clinical review and, if unavoidable, monitoring.
Common questions about balsam peru + benzyl benzoate + bismuth oxide + bismuth subgallate + hydrocortisone acetate + zinc oxide
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Does it cure piles?
No. It reduces inflammation, itching and discomfort but does not remove the underlying haemorrhoids or causes such as constipation.
Should I use ointment or suppositories?
Ointment can be used for symptoms inside or around the anus. Suppositories are for internal haemorrhoids.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.