balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide at a glance
Medicine class
Topical treatment for haemorrhoids and other minor anorectal conditions
Main role
Relieves symptoms and protects irritated skin and mucosa; it does not address every cause of rectal symptoms
Administration
Applied externally or internally using the supplied rectal nozzle; not for swallowing
Age group
Intended for adults and older people; not recommended for children
What is balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide used for?
Licensed for symptom relief from minor anorectal conditions.
Uncomplicated internal or external haemorrhoids
Itching around the anus
Proctitis and anal fissures
Use after anorectal surgery or incision of thrombosed or sclerosed anorectal veins
Lubrication when using suppositories
How does balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide work?
Bismuth oxide and zinc oxide form a protective, mildly astringent layer. Zinc oxide also absorbs moisture and reduces friction. Balsam Peru has protective and very mild antiseptic properties, while the cream base lubricates and softens. The ingredients act locally with little systemic absorption.
How to take balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide
This is a topical cream, not an oral product.
Gently clean and dry the affected area.
Smooth the cream gently onto the external affected area; no gauze dressing is required.
For internal symptoms, use the supplied rectal nozzle.
Replace the cap and clean the nozzle after use.
Wash your hands after application.
balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide side effects
Common or expected effects
- No common adverse effects have been established from available post-marketing information.
Get urgent medical advice
- Rare hypersensitivity; obtain urgent help for facial or throat swelling or breathing difficulty.
- Burning, redness, peeling, irritation, pain, itching, rash or hives at the application site; stop use and seek advice if marked or persistent.
- Skin sensitisation or systemic contact dermatitis associated with Balsam Peru.
balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide in pregnancy
Formal studies of this cream in pregnancy are unavailable. Its product information recommends use only after considering maternal benefit and possible fetal risk. UK guidance generally starts with measures to reduce constipation; topical treatment may be considered if these are insufficient. Previous topical exposure is not normally a reason for extra fetal monitoring.
balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide while breastfeeding
The product information recommends a benefit–risk assessment. UK specialist guidance considers topical rectal products containing these ingredients compatible with breastfeeding because the treated area and systemic absorption are small. Avoid direct infant contact with the cream and seek specialist advice for a premature or unwell infant.
balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide interactions
No interactions with other medicines are known from the selected product information.
Common questions about balsam peru + bismuth oxide + zinc oxide
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is this cream used for?
Symptom relief from uncomplicated haemorrhoids, anal itching, proctitis, fissures and discomfort after certain anorectal procedures.
Does it cure piles?
It protects and soothes irritated tissue but does not treat every underlying cause or guarantee that piles will not return.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.