What are the common side effects of the most popular anal fissure medications

By | July 1, 2017
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Anal fissure is a small crack in the internal anal sphincter that can cause pain and irritation that can ruin your day.

Its treatment varies from non-pharmacologic interventions like having a high fiber diet and taking sitz bath to the use of drugs and surgery.

The most common medications used to treat anal fissure include the following:

  • Topical Nitroglycerin

This is applied inside the anal canal to improve blood circulation and decrease pressure in the internal anal sphincter.

  • Topical Anesthetics

A topical anesthetic may come in a gel, ointment, or cream form. It is used to numb the anus prior to passing out stools.

  • Laxatives

Laxative is given to a patient to prevent constipation.

It induces bowel movements, and it also helps soften the stools.

  • Calcium Channel Blockers

When taken orally, these drugs help manage hypertension. Topical forms of these drugs are used to relax the internal anal muscles and improve blood flow to the anal fissure.

  • Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox) Injection

This may only be administered to a patient when all other medications fail.

A low dose of botulinum toxin is used to cause temporary paralysis to the anal muscles. This should prevent muscle spasms, decrease pain, and promote the healing of the fissure.

Its effect lasts for about 2-3 months.

While these medications offer relief from anal fissure pain and irritation, these come with side-effects that you need be aware of.

Side-effects of Common Anal Fissure Medications

  • Topical Nitroglycerin

Some patients have reported some of the following adverse effects after using this drug:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Allergic reactions
  • Hypotension or decrease in blood pressure

Do not drive when you feel dizzy or lightheaded, and tell your physician if you experience these symptoms often.

  • Topical Anesthetics

The most commonly prescribed topical anesthetic is Lidocaine. The most common side-effects of this drug include mild irritation and numbness on application site.

Notify your physician if you experience the following:

  • Severe burning or stinging sensation; swelling or redness over application site
  • Sudden drowsiness or dizziness after drug application
  • Blurred vision
  • Confusion
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Unusual sensations of temperature
  • Laxatives

The most common side-effects of laxatives are:

  • Bloating
  • Cramping
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Gas
  • Increased thirst

Constipation can also happen if laxative is not take with enough amount of water.

  • Calcium Channel Blockers

Topical Nifedipine and Diltiazem usually can cause less side-effects like mild headaches, itchiness, and irritation over application area.

  • Botulinum Toxin Type A (Botox) Injection

Less than 10% of patients who’ve used this treatment reported the following adverse effects:

  • Difficulty of swallowing
  • Dry eyes
  • Drooping of the eyelids
  • Headaches
  • Neck pains
  • Influenza-like symptoms
  • Upper respiratory tract infection
  • Urinary retention

While one to ten percent complained of pain on the injection site, sweating, fever, migraine, and backache.

Always consult your doctor prior to taking any medication and report if you feel worse after taking a medicine.