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Aesculan is a rectal ointment that is used to relieve the symptoms of haemorrhoidal disease. The active substances in Aesculan are esculin and lidocaine, which both have local anesthetic properties. How does Aesculan work and what are the contraindications to its use? How to properly use and dose Aesculan ointment?
Aesculan – composition and action
Aesculan is an ointment preparation that is used rectally to reduce the unpleasant symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. Aesculan ointment is a combined drug that contains an anesthetic drug, i.e. lidocaine and horse chestnut bark extract. Lidocaine is a compound that inhibits the formation and conduction of nerve impulses. The mechanism of action of lidocaine is based on blocking sodium channels, i.e. special structures in the membranes of nerve cells. The blockage of the flow of sodium ions through the neuron’s cell membrane prevents the initiation and conduction of the nerve impulse. Lidocaine acts on pain endings and sensory nerves. It is a compound characterized by a rapid onset of action. Aesculan and its active substance are always administered by the parenteral route. This drug acts locally and has practically no systemic effects.
Aesculan – indications and contraindications
An indication for the use of Aesculan ointment are unpleasant pain symptoms associated with haemorrhoidal disease. This ointment is mainly used in the first phase of the disease, which is characterized by mild pain and itching in the anus. Unfortunately, not every patient who struggles with hemorrhoids can reach for Aesculan ointment. Hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients of the preparation is a contraindication to the use of this ointment. Aesculan ointment should not be used by patients who have been diagnosed with an allergy to Asteraceae plants.
Aesculan – correct use and dosage
Aesculan ointment should always be used according to the recommendations of the doctor who decided to use this preparation for the treatment of hemorrhoids. A cannula, i.e. a plastic tube resembling a cannula, was attached to the package of Aesculan ointment. The dose of the drug is applied through this tube or by pressing the ointment into the anus. The correct dose for adults is about 0,5-1 g, which is a band about 2 cm long. The ointment should be applied 2-3 times a day until the acute symptoms disappear. After that, the dose of the ointment can be reduced by applying it only once a day. If you do not notice any improvement after a week of using Aesculan ointment, contact your doctor who will change the dose of the drug or suggest a different treatment course.
Aesculan – possible side effects and precautions
The use of Aesculan ointment may cause side effects. Topically applied ointments may cause allergic reactions, including very rarely anaphylactic shock. The auxiliary substances of Aesculan ointment, i.e. bronopol and lanolin, can cause local skin irritation. Chamomile oil can also cause an allergic reaction. If signs of hypersensitivity appear, use of Aesculan ointment should be discontinued immediately.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.