phenylephrine/witch hazel topical (Preparation H Cooling Gel)
Classes: Gastrointestinal Agents, Other
Dosing and uses of Preparation H Cooling Gel (phenylephrine/witch hazel topical)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
phenylephrine/witch hazeL
topical geL
- 0.25%/50%
Hemorrhoids
Apply gel externally to clean, dry hemorrhoidal area
May be applied up to 4 times/day, especially at night, in the morning, or after bowel movement that may exacerbate hemorrhoid(s)
Administration
Puncture foil seal using the top end of the tube’s cap when using for the first time
Apply gel externally
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
phenylephrine/witch hazeL
topical geL
- 0.25%/50%
Hemorrhoids
<12 years: Use is dependent on patient and if benefit outweighs risk
12 years or older: Apply gel externally to clean, dry hemorrhoidal area
May be applied up to 4 times/day, especially at night, in the morning, or after bowel movement that may exacerbate hemorrhoid(s)
Administration
Puncture foil seal using the top end of the tube’s cap when using for the first time
Apply gel externally
Preparation H Cooling Gel (phenylephrine/witch hazel topical) adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
There are no adverse reactions reported with the usage of this product
If ingested, witch hazel can cause nausea, vomiting, or liver damage
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to phenylephrine, witch hazel, or inactive components
Oral use
Cautions
For external use only
Contains phenylephrine, caution with heart disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or prostatic hypertrophy
Discontinue and contact physician if hemorrhoids worsen or do not improved within 7 days
Discontinue if bleeding, allergic reaction, redness, irritation, swelling, pain, or other symptoms develop or increase
This product should not be placed in the rectum using a mechanical device or fingers
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Unknown whether distributed in breast milk
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Preparation H Cooling Gel (phenylephrine/witch hazel topical)
Mechanism of action
Phenylephrine: Alpha adrenergic agonist; elicits localized vasoconstriction and decreases inflammation
Witch Hazel: Astringent, anti-inflammatory, styptic
