What is Faktu (factu)? Understanding this hemorrhoid medication

October 6, 2025 •

4 min read

First developed in the 1960s, the medication Faktu (often seen misspelled as factu) is a well-established topical treatment for hemorrhoids and anal fissures, utilizing a dual-action formula for effective relief. It works by combining astringent and antiseptic properties with a local anesthetic to address multiple symptoms simultaneously.

Quick Summary

An overview of Faktu, a medication containing policresulen and cinchocaine hydrochloride, used to treat hemorrhoids and anal fissures by alleviating bleeding, pain, itching, and promoting tissue regeneration.

Key Points

Active Ingredients: Faktu combines policresulen, an astringent and antiseptic, with cinchocaine, a local anesthetic, for dual-action relief.
Primary Uses: It is used to treat hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and other anorectal conditions causing bleeding, pain, and itching.
Dual Mechanism: Policresulen targets and removes damaged tissue while controlling bleeding, and cinchocaine numbs the area to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Available Forms: Faktu is available as both an ointment for external and internal use and as suppositories specifically for internal hemorrhoids.
Steroid-Free: The medication is steroid-free, making it a suitable option for long-term use under medical supervision.
Requires Prescription: In many regions, Faktu requires a valid prescription for purchase due to its active ingredients.
Safety Profile: Common side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as a burning sensation, though rare allergic reactions can occur.

What is Faktu and its Active Ingredients?

Faktu, sometimes incorrectly referred to as factu, is a medicated topical preparation available as an ointment and suppositories, primarily prescribed for anorectal conditions. It is not a steroid-based medication, making it a viable long-term treatment option when necessary. The therapeutic efficacy of Faktu comes from its two active components: policresulen and cinchocaine hydrochloride.

The Role of Policresulen

Policresulen is a condensation product that works as a powerful astringent and antiseptic. Its primary function is to act selectively on pathologically altered tissue, coagulating and eliminating diseased or necrotic areas while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. This action helps to control superficial bleeding from hemorrhoids and anal fissures by constricting capillaries and forming a protective layer over the wound surface. The bactericidal effect also helps prevent or manage inflammation in the affected region.

The Role of Cinchocaine Hydrochloride

Cinchocaine hydrochloride is a potent local anesthetic agent. Its purpose in Faktu is to provide rapid and effective relief from pain, burning, and itching—common and distressing symptoms of anorectal disorders. It achieves this by blocking nerve impulses in the application area, reducing the sensation of pain and discomfort.

Therapeutic Indications and Benefits

Faktu is indicated for a range of proctological affections, providing symptomatic relief and promoting healing.

Common indications for Faktu include:

External and internal hemorrhoids, especially those with bleeding and inflammation.
Anal fissures and rhagades (small tears or cracks).
Anal eczema and pruritus (itching).
Postoperative wound treatment following proctological procedures.

How to Use Faktu Effectively

Proper application of Faktu is crucial for optimal results. It is important to follow the dosage and instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

Application Guidelines

Ointment Application: The anal area should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before application. The ointment can be applied thinly to the affected external areas or internally using the special applicator provided with the product. For internal use, screw the cannula onto the tube, insert it into the anus, and gently squeeze to dispense the ointment evenly.
Suppository Application: One suppository is typically inserted into the rectum after a bowel movement. The usual dosage is two to three times daily, which may be reduced to once daily after symptoms improve.

Recommended Practices

Ensure regular, soft bowel movements through a high-fiber diet and sufficient fluid intake.
Maintain proper anal hygiene.
Do not exceed the prescribed duration of use, which should not typically exceed 4 weeks without consulting a doctor.

Comparison: Faktu vs. Other Hemorrhoid Treatments


Feature	Faktu (Policresulen + Cinchocaine)	OTC Hemorrhoid Creams (e.g., Preparation H)	Minimally Invasive Procedures (e.g., Rubber Band Ligation)
Mechanism	Astringent, antiseptic, and local anesthetic to shrink and numb tissue.	Vasoconstrictor (phenylephrine) to reduce swelling and protective barriers (e.g., cocoa butter).	Physical obliteration of hemorrhoidal tissue.
Pain Relief	Provides local anesthetic action for immediate pain and itching relief.	Offers temporary numbing and itch relief.	Can cause significant pain, especially initially.
Symptom Coverage	Addresses bleeding, inflammation, pain, and itching.	Focuses primarily on swelling and discomfort.	Treats symptoms by targeting the underlying blood vessel.
Tissue Healing	Promotes regeneration by selectively removing damaged tissue.	Offers little direct promotion of tissue regeneration beyond protection.	Destructive rather than regenerative of the tissue.
Side Effects	Temporary burning/itching, allergic reactions are possible but rare. Non-steroidal.	Allergic reactions, potential systemic effects from vasoconstrictors. Contains no healing components like Faktu.	Post-procedure pain, bleeding, and risk of infection.
Best For	Conditions with inflammation, bleeding, and pain.	Symptomatic relief of minor external hemorrhoids.	Higher-grade hemorrhoids unresponsive to conservative therapy.

Potential Side Effects and Contraindications

Like all medications, Faktu can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. It's important to be aware of potential reactions and consult a doctor if they occur.

Side Effects

Mild Discomfort: A temporary burning or itching sensation at the application site can occur, especially at the start of treatment, but usually subsides quickly.
Allergic Reactions: Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis have been reported. Systemic allergic reactions are very rare but can include swelling and hives.

Contraindications and Precautions

Hypersensitivity: Faktu should not be used by those with a known hypersensitivity to policresulen, cinchocaine, or any other ingredients. For suppositories, an allergy to soy or peanuts is also a contraindication due to soy lecithin content.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Use during pregnancy, especially the first trimester, should only be under strict medical supervision and when absolutely necessary. It is unknown if the active ingredients pass into breast milk.
Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of Faktu in children under 12 have not been established.
Concurrent Medications: Avoid using other topical rectal medications in the same area during treatment unless directed by a doctor.

Conclusion

Faktu represents an effective topical treatment for a range of anorectal disorders, notably hemorrhoids and anal fissures. By combining the astringent and antiseptic action of policresulen with the anesthetic properties of cinchocaine, it provides comprehensive relief from pain, bleeding, and itching. Its ability to promote tissue regeneration while avoiding steroids makes it a suitable option for prolonged use under medical guidance. While offering substantial benefits, patients must be mindful of potential side effects and contraindications, especially regarding allergic sensitivities and use during pregnancy. As with any medical treatment, consultation with a healthcare provider is essential for safe and effective use. A multicenter study demonstrated highly satisfactory results in a significant number of patients, reinforcing its therapeutic efficacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the correct spelling is Faktu. The name factu is a common misspelling of this hemorrhoid medication.

Faktu provides relief through two active ingredients: policresulen, which stops bleeding and promotes tissue regeneration, and cinchocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the area to relieve pain and itching.

To apply the ointment, clean and dry the area first. For external use, apply thinly. For internal use, use the special applicator provided, inserting it into the anus after a bowel movement to distribute the ointment.

Use during pregnancy should only be under a doctor's strict supervision, especially during the first trimester. It is not known if the active ingredients pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding should be avoided while using this medication.

Initial application may cause a temporary burning or itching sensation, which typically resolves quickly. In rare cases, allergic contact dermatitis or systemic allergic reactions can occur.

Faktu can generally be used until symptoms subside, but self-treatment should not exceed 4 weeks without consulting a doctor. Since it is steroid-free, it can be used for longer periods under medical supervision.

Yes, Faktu is indicated for treating both hemorrhoids and anal fissures, addressing inflammation, pain, and bleeding associated with both conditions.

Individuals with hypersensitivity to policresulen, cinchocaine, or other ingredients should not use Faktu. Those with a known soy or peanut allergy should not use the suppositories due to the inclusion of soy lecithin.