Vasoconstrictors for hemorrhoids: Vasoconstrictors are chemicals similar to epinephrine, a naturally occurring chemicals. Applied to the anus, vasoconstrictors make the blood vessels “grow” smaller, which can reduce swelling. They can also reduce pain and itching due to its easy anesthetic effect. Vasoconstrictors applied to perianal area – unlike vasoconstrictors that taken orally or by injection – have a low risk of causing serious side effects, such as high blood pressure, nervousness, tremor, insomnia, and worsening of diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

Vasoconstrictors include:

Ephedrine sulfate 0.1% to 1.25%

Epinephrine 0.005% to 0.01%

Phenylephrine 0.25% (Medicon suppositories, Preparation H, Rectacaine)