Does Preparation H work?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Robert William, MD · Written by Kevin Schwaner · Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
Preparation H reduces hemorrhoid swelling: its flagship ointment uses phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor, in a protective petrolatum base. It does not numb pain unless you buy the separate Maximum Strength version with 5% lidocaine. Like all topicals it manages surface symptoms rather than the underlying vein weakness, so flares tend to return after the tube runs out.
Preparation H is effective at what it is designed to do: the flagship phenylephrine ointment constricts swollen vessels over one to three days and its petrolatum base shields irritated skin during bowel movements. What surprises people is that the flagship contains no anesthetic, so it does not directly relieve pain. For pain you need the separate Preparation H Maximum Strength with 5% lidocaine.
The lineup covers most symptoms lane by lane, but every version works at the surface. None reaches the weakened veins where hemorrhoids originate, which is why the same flare tends to return. Use Preparation H for the symptom it matches, and add internal vein support and fiber if the problem is recurrent.
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Sources
- FDA OTC monograph: anorectal drug products
- NIH / NIDDK: Hemorrhoids
Related Questions
Is RectiCare or Preparation H better? →What is the best hemorrhoid cream? →What is the strongest OTC hemorrhoid treatment? →*Informational only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Any rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.