A 51-year-old woman asks for over-the-counter relief for haemorrhoids. Which product would be most appropriate to recommend given her prior response to Anugesic-HC?

• A. Anusol Plus HC ointment
• B. Anusol HC cream
• C. Hydrocortisone cream
• D. Preparation H

Answer: (A)

When managing hemorrhoid symptoms, if a patient has previously responded to a product that includes a corticosteroid, the most sensible next OTC choice is another corticosteroid in a vehicle that offers good tissue contact and protection. Anusol Plus HC ointment provides hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and comes in an ointment base, which is typically more effective for external hemorrhoids than creams or gels because it stays in contact longer and forms a protective barrier.

This aligns with continuing the anti-inflammatory benefit she already tolerated from Anugesic-HC, while avoiding introducing a new anesthetic that can cause sensitivity in some individuals. The other options are less ideal: a plain hydrocortisone cream is similar but ointments are generally preferred for hemorrhoids; a product without a corticosteroid (Preparation H) targets vasoconstriction rather than inflammation; Anusol HC cream is similar but the ointment form is usually preferred for longer-lasting relief.