Frequently asked questions

See some of the most commonly asked questions about haemorrhoids, helping you get effective treatment for your symptoms.

You’ll find lots of information about the causes and symptoms of haemorrhoids, treatments and tips and advice to help prevent further occurrences throughout the website.

    Germoloids Cream, Ointment & Suppositories all contain the ingredients lidocaine hydrochloride, and zinc oxide to provide a 4in1 action for relief from haemorrhoids:

    1. numbs and soothes itching
    2. fast pain relief
    3. shrinks piles
    4. protects against infection.

    All Germoloids products can be used by adults and children 12 years and older. For children under 12 years, please consult your doctor.

    Yes, one of Germoloids’ active ingredients is lidocaine hydrochloride, which is a fast acting local anaesthetic.

    Lidocaine hydrochloride is a local anaesthetic; it numbs the sensations of pain and itching, which are often experienced as a symptom of piles (haemorrhoids).

    Zinc oxide has astringent properties, which help to reduce painful swelling & shrink the haemmorrhoids. It also has antiseptic properties which help to protect the skin on the bottom (anus) from infection.

    Yes, all Germoloids products are suitable for vegetarians.

    Germoloids Ointment is not suitable for vegans, as it contains lanolin which is a type of fat derived from sheep’s wool.

    Germoloids Cream, Ointment & Suppositories can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with all medicines, you should discuss treatment with a doctor before using Germoloids if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

    The Germoloids range is available off the shelf from retail and independent pharmacies, as well as supermarkets. You can also purchase some products through online retailers, such as Amazon.

    Germoloids Cream & Ointment can be applied at least twice a day with a minimum of three to four hours between applications. Further applications can be made at any time of day and are particularly recommended after a bowel movement. Do not use more than four times in any 24-hour period.

    You can take one suppository at night and in the morning, preferably after a bowel movement. If necessary, Germoloids Suppositories can be used any time, night or day with a minimum of 3 - 4 hours between suppositories. Suppositories are for anal use only.
    Do not use more than 4 suppositories in any 24-hour period. If symptoms persist after a week, you should consult your doctor.

    Germoloids products can be used at night. One suppository can be inserted into the rectum at night, preferably after a bowel movement.

    Germoloids products should only be used as described in the Patient Information Leaflet. If sustained use is required to due persistence of symptoms, it’s recommended that you seek further advice from your doctor.

    Before using Germoloids products, do check with your GP if you suffer from the following:

    Continued haemorrhoids for sustained periods

    Severe haemorrhoids

    Excessive bleeding.

    Your GP can also help if your symptoms persist and may advise a different method to treat the haemorrhoids.

    Yes, small haemorrhoids can clear within a few days with or without treatment. More severe haemorrhoids may require treatment from a doctor. Please consult your doctor if you’re concerned about your haemorrhoids or their symptoms.

    There is no set time for how long haemorrhoid symptoms can last. However, if these have not been resolved within a few days, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor for further advice.

    Yes, haemorrhoids are a common condition that can affect nearly three out of four adults.

    Yes, piles is another term for haemorrhoids.