Dealing with hemorrhoids can feel like a constant battle: itching, pain, and occasional bleeding that disrupt your daily life. With countless products on the market, deciding whether to stick with a familiar brand or try something new becomes a real headache. This guide cuts through the noise by pitting Pilex against the most common alternatives, so you can pick the one that truly fits your needs.
Quick Takeaways
- Pilex is a tablet‑based supplement that combines herbal extracts (Hawthorn, Bhringraj) with a mild astringent.
- Topical creams like Preparation H work fastest for acute pain but may cause skin irritation.
- Prescription‑grade options such as Anusol offer stronger anti‑inflammatory action but require doctor oversight.
- Natural supplements (e.g., Diosmin or Butcher's Broom) are gentle, cost‑effective, and safe for long‑term use.
- Choosing the right product hinges on symptom severity, budget, and any existing health conditions.
What Is Pilex?
Pilex is a herbal tablet formulated to soothe hemorrhoidal inflammation and strengthen vascular walls. Launched in 2017, the brand quickly gained traction in South Asian markets and is now exported to Australia and New Zealand.
Key attributes:
- Active ingredients: Hawthorn extract (30mg), Bhringraj leaf powder (20mg), and zinc sulfate (5mg).
- Form: Enteric‑coated tablets, 30mg per tablet.
- Typical price in NZ: NZ$25-30 for a 30‑tablet pack.
- Onset of relief: Usually 3-5days of consistent use.
- Safety profile: Low incidence of mild gastrointestinal upset; contraindicated for patients with severe heart disease due to Hawthorn.
Popular Alternatives to Pilex
Below are the most widely used hemorrhoid remedies that clinicians and over‑the‑counter shoppers consider alongside Pilex.
Preparation H
Preparation H is a petroleum‑jelly‑based ointment containing phenylephrine and witch hazel. It’s designed for rapid pain relief and reduces swelling within minutes.
Anusol
Anusol comes in both cream and suppository forms. The active component is hydrocortisone (1%); the cream version also adds zinc oxide for barrier protection.
Diosmin Supplements
Diosmin is a flavonoid derived from citrus peels. It’s sold as capsules (450mg) and targets venous insufficiency, which underlies many chronic hemorrhoid cases.
Butcher’s Broom Extract
Butcher's Broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is a traditional European herb. Standardized extracts (2% ruscogenins) are available in 300mg tablets and work by tightening capillaries.
Hydrocortisone Cream (Generic)
Plain Hydrocortisone 1% cream is a low‑cost option found in most pharmacies. It reduces inflammation but offers minimal analgesic effect.
Hemorrhoid Gold
Hemorrhoid Gold is a newer proprietary blend of rosemary oil, witch hazel, and aloe vera. Marketed as a “natural fast‑acting” ointment, it’s priced mid‑range.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison
| Product | Form | Active Ingredient(s) | Typical NZ Price* | Onset of Relief | Common Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pilex | Tablet (enteric‑coated) | Hawthorn, Bhringraj, Zinc sulfate | NZ$25-30 (30tab) | 3-5days | Mild GI upset |
| Preparation H | Ointment (petroleum jelly) | Phenylephrine, Witch hazel | NZ$12-15 (100g) | Minutes | Skin irritation, oiliness |
| Anusol | Cream / Suppository | Hydrocortisone 1% | NZ$18-22 (30g) | 1-2days | Thinning skin, rare infection |
| Diosmin | Capsule | Diosmin 450mg | NZ$30-35 (60caps) | 1-2weeks | Headache, mild nausea |
| Butcher's Broom | Tablet | Ruscogenins 2% | NZ$28-32 (60tab) | 4-7days | Rare GI upset |
| Hydrocortisone Cream | Cream | Hydrocortisone 1% | NZ$8-10 (50g) | 1-2days | Skin thinning if overused |
*Prices are approximate retail rates in NewZealand as of October 2025 and may vary between pharmacies and online stores.
Which Remedy Fits Your Situation?
Below is a quick decision guide. Match your primary concern with the product that shines in that area.
- Immediate pain relief: Preparation H or Anusol (cream form) act within minutes.
- Chronic bleeding or vascular weakness: Diosmin or Butcher's Broom target the underlying vein health.
- Desire for an oral, all‑natural supplement: Pilex offers a blend of herbal extracts with a modest price point.
- Pregnancy‑safe option: Low‑dose Butcher's Broom (under doctor guidance) is generally considered safe; avoid high‑strength steroids like Anusol unless prescribed.
- Budget‑conscious: Generic Hydrocortisone Cream or a 30‑day pack of Pilex stay under NZ$30.
How to Use These Products Safely
Even over‑the‑counter remedies can cause issues if misused. Follow these basic rules:
- Read the label for maximum daily dosage-especially for oral supplements like Pilex (usually one tablet after meals).
- For creams, apply a thin layer after bowel movements and before bedtime; avoid using more than three times per day to reduce skin irritation.
- If you have underlying heart disease, diabetes, or are pregnant, consult a pharmacist or GP before starting herbal blends containing Hawthorn or high‑dose steroids.
- Track symptom changes for at least 7days. If bleeding persists or worsens, seek medical advice-self‑treatment is not a substitute for professional care.
- Store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; tablets can lose potency after 24months.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Many users make simple mistakes that nullify benefits:
- Mixing multiple steroids (e.g., using both Anusol cream and a separate hydrocortisone ointment) can thin skin dramatically.
- Expecting instant results from oral supplements. Products like Pilex need consistent daily intake; don’t stop after a couple of days.
- Skipping lifestyle changes. Fiber‑rich diet, hydration, and regular exercise reduce pressure on hemorrhoidal veins, enhancing any medication’s effect.
- Self‑diagnosing severe grades. Advanced prolapsed hemorrhoids often need procedural treatment; over‑the‑counter products won’t resolve them.
Bottom Line: Tailor Your Choice
The “best” hemorrhoid product isn’t universal. If your main goal is rapid pain relief, a topical ointment like Preparation H wins hands‑down. For long‑term vascular support, flavonoid‑based supplements such as Diosmin or Butcher's Broom are smarter investments. When you prefer an oral, herb‑based option that’s affordable and easy to take, Pilex sits comfortably in the middle.
Ultimately, combine the right product with diet, hydration, and, when needed, professional evaluation for the fastest, safest relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I take Pilex for hemorrhoids?
Most users see improvement after 5-7days. Continue for a full 14‑day course to consolidate symptom relief, then reassess. If bleeding persists, talk to a doctor.
Can I use Pilex together with a topical cream?
Yes, the two work through different mechanisms. Take the tablet orally after meals and apply a cream like Preparation H only after bowel movements. Monitor for skin irritation.
Is Pilex safe during pregnancy?
The Hawthorn component is not well‑studied in pregnancy, so most clinicians advise a cautious approach. Safer oral options include low‑dose Butcher's Broom, but always get a doctor’s approval.
Do I need a prescription for Anusol?
In NewZealand, the standard 1% hydrocortisone cream is available over the counter. Higher‑strength (2% or 5%) versions require a pharmacy‑only or prescription status.
Which product works best for chronic bleeding?
Chronic bleeding usually stems from weakened veins. Oral flavonoids such as Diosmin or Butcher's Broom address the root cause, while a gentle cream (e.g., Hydrocortisone) can reduce irritation during flare‑ups.
