From the Guidelines
Maximum strength Preparation H contains 1% phenylephrine HCl as its active ingredient, which works as a vasoconstrictor to shrink swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. The formula also includes several inactive ingredients such as glycerin, which provides lubrication and moisture to relieve dryness; mineral oil, which forms a protective barrier; and petrolatum, which helps soothe irritated areas. Some versions may also contain witch hazel, known for its astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and swelling. The product works by temporarily narrowing blood vessels in the rectal area, which reduces swelling and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. It's worth noting that the study 1 mentions phenylephrine as an option for treating redness, but does not provide information on the specific formulation of Preparation H. However, based on the available evidence, the active ingredient in maximum strength Preparation H is phenylephrine HCl, which is used to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids. Key ingredients and their functions include:
- Phenylephrine HCl: vasoconstrictor to shrink swollen tissue
- Glycerin: lubrication and moisture
- Mineral oil: protective barrier
- Petrolatum: soothes irritated areas
- Witch hazel (in some versions): astringent properties to reduce inflammation and swelling. The product is available in various forms including ointments, creams, suppositories, and medicated wipes, each designed for different application preferences and specific symptom relief, as mentioned in the context of treating erythromelalgia 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Ingredients in Maximum Strength Preparation H
- The ingredients in maximum strength Preparation H are not explicitly stated in the provided studies.
- However, it is mentioned in the study 2 that Preparation-H® maximum strength cream was used as a comparator to PP110 Gel and Wipes in the treatment of grade 2-3 hemorrhoids.
- The active ingredient in Preparation H is phenylephrine, but the exact formulation of the maximum strength version is not specified in the studies.
Related Information
- The study 2 compares the safety and efficacy of PP110 to Preparation-H® maximum strength cream in the treatment of hemorrhoids.
- The study 3 investigates the use of a mixture of phlebotonics (diosmin, troxerutin, and hesperidin) in the treatment of acute hemorrhoidal disease, but does not provide information on the ingredients in Preparation H.
- The studies 4, 5, and 6 do not provide relevant information on the ingredients in Preparation H.