Understanding Rowatanal: Ingredients and How It Works
Rowatanal is a topical cream formulated to relieve the pain, itching, and irritation associated with hemorrhoids (piles) and proctitis. Its effectiveness stems from a combination of active ingredients that work together to soothe and protect the affected area. The primary active ingredients are Menthol, Bismuth Subgallate, and Zinc Oxide.
- Menthol: Provides a cooling sensation upon application, which helps to relieve the intense itching and burning often felt with hemorrhoids.
- Bismuth Subgallate: Acts as an astringent, which has a cleansing and protective effect on the inflamed tissue. It also possesses wound-healing properties, helping to repair damaged tissue.
- Zinc Oxide: A widely used protective agent that forms a barrier over the skin and mucus membranes. This protects the inflamed area from further irritation and promotes healing.
By combining these active ingredients, Rowatanal works locally to provide symptomatic relief without curing the underlying condition itself. For persistent issues, professional medical advice is always recommended.
Step-by-Step Guide for Using Rowatanal Cream
Proper application is key to ensuring the medication is effective and safe. Follow these steps for applying Rowatanal cream.
Preparation Before Application
- Perform Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water both before and after applying the cream. You may also consider wearing a disposable glove for extra hygiene.
- Clean the Affected Area: Wash the anal area gently but thoroughly with mild soap and water. Rinsing and patting the area dry with a very soft towel is crucial to prevent further irritation.
Application for External Hemorrhoids
For hemorrhoids located outside the anus, follow these steps:
- Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip.
- Gently apply the cream to the affected area around the outside of your anus.
- Massage the cream gently to aid absorption.
- Follow the recommended application frequency as directed by a healthcare professional or the product packaging.
Application for Internal Hemorrhoids
For internal hemorrhoids, use the applicator nozzle provided with the cream tube:
- Screw the applicator nozzle onto the tube of Rowatanal cream.
- Lubricate the nozzle tip by squeezing a small amount of cream through it.
- Gently insert the lubricated applicator tip into the anus, no more than 1–2 inches past the sphincter.
- Squeeze the tube to apply the cream internally.
- After application, remove the nozzle carefully.
- Crucially, clean the applicator nozzle thoroughly after each use with a hot solution of detergent and water to prevent infection.
Important Safety Precautions and Storage
To ensure the safest use of Rowatanal, pay close attention to these important points.
Precautions
- For Rectal Use Only: This product is for rectal use and should not be ingested or taken by mouth.
- Allergies: Do not use Rowatanal if you are allergic to menthol, bismuth subgallate, zinc oxide, or any other ingredients listed in the leaflet.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is not known if Rowatanal is safe for use during pregnancy or lactation. Always consult a physician before use in these cases.
- Duration of Use: If your condition persists or worsens after a few days of use, consult a doctor. Prolonged or repeated use of some rectal creams can potentially lead to skin thinning or sensitivity.
- Bleeding Hemorrhoids: If your piles are bleeding, or have been present for a long time, you should speak to a doctor before using Rowatanal.
Storage
- Store the cream in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C.
- Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.
- Always replace the cap tightly after each use.
Rowatanal vs. Other Common Hemorrhoid Treatments
Comparing Rowatanal with other common over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments can help you understand your options. Note that active ingredients and specific formulations vary by brand and product version. Always read the label and consult a pharmacist for the best choice for your symptoms.
| Feature | Rowatanal Cream | Preparation H (Multi-Symptom Cream) | Anusol Ointment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Menthol, Bismuth Subgallate, Zinc Oxide | Glycerin, Phenylephrine, Pramoxine | Zinc Oxide, Bismuth Subgallate, Bismuth Oxide |
| Mechanism of Action | Astringent and antiseptic properties. Zinc oxide protects, and menthol provides a cooling sensation. | Constricts blood vessels, numbs pain, provides a protective barrier. | Soothes, protects, and has astringent properties. |
| Primary Symptom Relief | Itching, burning, irritation | Pain, swelling, itching, burning | Itching, discomfort, irritation |
| Application | For both internal (with applicator) and external use. | Typically for external use. Suppositories are available for internal hemorrhoids. | Ointment for external and suppositories for internal use. |
This table illustrates that while these products all aim to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, they do so with different active ingredients and mechanisms. For example, Preparation H includes a vasoconstrictor (phenylephrine), while Rowatanal focuses on astringent, antiseptic, and cooling properties.
Conclusion
Rowatanal cream is a reliable over-the-counter option for providing symptomatic relief from the itching, burning, and irritation of hemorrhoids and proctitis. By following the correct application steps—which involve cleaning the area thoroughly and using the provided applicator for internal hemorrhoids—users can maximize its effectiveness. However, it is essential to remember that it is a symptomatic treatment, not a cure. Always heed the safety precautions, such as avoiding its use during pregnancy without medical advice and consulting a doctor if symptoms persist, worsen, or involve bleeding. By doing so, you can use Rowatanal responsibly and effectively as part of a broader management plan for hemorrhoids. A healthy diet rich in fiber and sufficient hydration are also critical to help prevent further flare-ups.
For more general information on hemorrhoid treatment options, consult a reputable source like MedlinePlus.(https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a617001.html)
