Hamamelis water 12.5% / Naphazoline 0.01% eye drops

Hemorrhoids are an anorectal problem that is prevalent and commonly managed with corticosteroids, analgesics, and phlebotonics. These conventional treatments are, however, only temporary in serving relief and come with adverse side effects when used long-term. Alternative herbal remedies, created from traditional medicine with all the evidence of their pharmacological action, promise good results. The effectiveness of various botanicals with the potential of being anti-inflammatory, venotonic, astringent, antioxidant, and wound healing in alleviating hemorrhoidal symptoms is discussed in this review. Therapeutically notable plants such as witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), and triphala have shown beneficial therapeutic effects on pain, bleeding, and swelling, as well as preventing recurrence. Moreover, Triphala Guggulu and Pilex are polyherbal formulations that offer synergistic benefits in addition to foods rich in polyphenols and the dietary compound, rutin. These promising findings have so far faced challenges related to the standardization, quality control, and clinical validation. The incorporation of these herbal therapies into clinical practice is a well-tolerated holistic approach to the management of hemorrhoids, which requires further investigation to gain evidence-based validation.

Abstract licence: CC BY

Hamamelis virginiana L. (witch hazel) is a traditionally used medicinal plant, well-known for its dermatological applications. The plant’s bark and leaves contain a rich array of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, catechins, proanthocyanidins, and tannins, many of which exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. These activities have been verified by numerous in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as limited clinical trials. The H. virginiana extracts have demonstrated effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Moreover, the extracts exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokine expression and NF-κB signaling, improve skin regeneration, and protect against UV-induced damage and pollution. This review highlights H. virginiana as a complex botanical resource to be used in dermatology and cosmetology and shows that current research offers encouraging results for its future therapeutic use, especially in skin treatment.

Abstract licence: CC BY

This study examines the risks and harms associated with the use of naphazoline hydrochloride (NHC). The methodology involved a narrative literature review from 2013 to 2023 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, which identified eleven relevant articles from Scielo, Medline Complete, PubMed, and Google Scholar. The guiding question was: What are the risks and potential adverse effects associated with the use of NHC? Results and Discussion:  Pharmacists play a crucial role in educating against misuse and promoting responsible medication use. However, challenges arise due to the prevalence of self-medication and limited pharmacist involvement in prescribing. The Role of Pharmacists: Harms of Misuse: Key concerns identified include systemic effects, drug-induced rhinitis, and dependence. Overuse of NHC during pregnancy and in children can lead to serious consequences such as hypothermia, bradycardia, and nervous system depression. The abuse hazards of NHC include rebound effects, drug-induced rhinitis, and long-term health risks such as hypertension and heart problems. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the pressing need for enhanced pharmacist training to equip them to effectively counsel and prevent misuse. Additionally, increased public awareness campaigns should be implemented to promote responsible non-prescription healthcare (NHC) use. Stricter dispensing measures, such as regulations to restrict over-the-counter access, should also be put in place. It is essential to promote responsible NHC use. Pharmacists play a critical role in mitigating the risks associated with this widely used medication as public health educators and patient guides.

Abstract licence: CC BY 4.0