Hirudoid Cream is a topical treatment containing 0.3% heparinoid, designed to reduce inflammation and support the healing process for conditions such as bruises, phlebitis, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids. By enhancing blood flow and dispersing fluid buildup, Hirudoid Cream effectively alleviates discomfort and accelerates recovery.
Dr Sarah Thornton MbChB, Coaching Academy diploma with distinction
GP, Medical coach
August 24, 2024
August 24, 2026
What is Hirudoid cream?
Hirudoid Cream and Gel contain 0.3% heparinoid, which effectively reduces inflammation caused by various conditions, including piles (hemorrhoids), bruising, phlebitis (inflammation of the veins), and varicose veins. This active ingredient not only helps in reducing inflammation but also aids the body’s healing process by improving blood flow to the affected area and promoting tissue regeneration. Hirudoid is commonly used for:
Alleviating pain and swelling associated with piles
Reducing bruising and aiding faster recovery from injuries
Treating phlebitis and minimizing vein inflammation
Managing symptoms and improving the appearance of varicose veins
Hirudoid Cream and Gel are designed for external use and can provide significant relief and support in managing these conditions effectively.
What is the active ingredient in Hirudoid cream?
Hirudoid Cream and Gel contain the active ingredient: 0.3% w/w Heparinoid.
What is Hirudoid cream used for?
Hirudoid Cream is used for the treatment of various conditions involving inflammation and blood flow issues. Its primary uses include:
Bruising: Helps reduce the appearance of bruises and speeds up the healing process.
Phlebitis: Treats inflammation of the veins, reducing pain and swelling.
Varicose Veins: Alleviates symptoms such as pain, swelling, and heaviness in the legs associated with varicose veins.
Piles (Hemorrhoids): Reduces inflammation and discomfort caused by piles.
The active ingredient, heparinoid, works by improving blood flow to the affected area, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue regeneration, aiding the body's natural healing process.
How does Hirudoid cream work?
Hirudoid Cream works primarily through its active ingredient, heparinoid, which is a derivative of heparin. Heparinoid is known for its anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. Here's how it functions:
Improves Blood Flow: Heparinoid enhances blood circulation in the affected area. This increased blood flow helps to disperse accumulated blood and fluids, which can reduce swelling and bruising.
Reduces Inflammation: By reducing inflammation, heparinoid helps to alleviate pain, swelling, and discomfort associated with conditions such as phlebitis, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids.
Prevents Blood Clotting: The anticoagulant properties of heparinoid help to prevent the formation of blood clots. This is particularly beneficial in conditions like phlebitis and varicose veins, where blood clots can worsen symptoms and complications.
Promotes Healing: By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, Hirudoid Cream aids in the natural healing process of the body. It helps to break down and reabsorb blood clots and bruises more quickly, promoting faster recovery.
Overall, the combined effects of improving circulation, reducing inflammation, preventing clotting, and aiding healing make Hirudoid Cream effective in treating conditions involving inflammation and poor blood flow.
How do you use Hirudoid cream?
External use only. Do not swallow.
Always use this medicine exactly as described in the leaflet or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. If unsure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Before use, pierce the tube seal with the spiked top of the cap.
The amount of cream used will depend on the size of the area being treated.
Gently massage between 2 and 6 inches (5-15 cm) of cream into the affected area at any one time.
Hirudoid Cream can be applied up to four times a day.
Do not exceed the recommended dose.
If the area is tender to touch, massage the cream into the skin surrounding the affected area.
Wash your hands after applying Hirudoid Cream, unless your hands are the treated area.
If you accidentally swallow some of this cream, it is unlikely to cause serious harm. However, you should contact your doctor or a hospital emergency department.
Who should not use Hirudoid cream?
Do not use Hirudoid Cream if:
You are allergic (hypersensitive) to heparinoid or any other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.
You have broken skin or plan to use it on large areas of skin.
You need to apply it on or near sensitive areas such as the mouth, eyes, or ano-genital regions.
Hirudoid Cream should NOT be used on children under the age of 5 years.
Warnings and precautions
Hirudoid Cream is for external use only. Do NOT swallow.
Do not exceed the dose stated.
Consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse.
Avoid smoking or going near naked flames – risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings, etc.) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine.
Additional Ingredients Information
Hirudoid Cream contains cetostearyl alcohol and lanolin, which may cause local skin reactions (e.g., contact dermatitis).
Hirudoid Cream also contains the preservatives propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216) and methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218), which may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed).
What are the side effects of Hirudoid cream?
Like all medicines, Hirudoid Cream can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Rarely, Hirudoid Cream can cause a rash in sensitive individuals. If this occurs, stop using the cream and inform your doctor or pharmacist.
Reporting of side effects
If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for ‘MHRA Yellow Card’ in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Does Hirudoid cream interact with other medicines?
Hirudoid Cream is primarily used for external application and, due to its localized effect, it is unlikely to interact with other medicines taken orally or administered in other ways. However, to ensure your safety, it’s always important to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken, or might take any other medicines.
If you have any concerns about potential interactions with other medications you are using, discuss them with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe use of Hirudoid Cream.
Hirudoid cream FAQs
What is Hirudoid Cream used for?
Hirudoid Cream is used to reduce inflammation and aid in the healing of bruises, phlebitis, varicose veins, and piles (hemorrhoids).
How does Hirudoid Cream work?
Hirudoid Cream contains heparinoid, which helps reduce inflammation, improve blood flow to the affected area, and speed up the healing process by dispersing fluid buildup.
How should I apply Hirudoid Cream?
Apply a thin layer of Hirudoid Cream to the affected area and gently massage it into the skin. Use between 2 and 6 inches (5-15 cm) of cream depending on the size of the area being treated, up to four times a day.
Can Hirudoid Cream be used on children?
Hirudoid Cream should not be used on children under the age of 5 years old.
Are there any side effects associated with Hirudoid Cream?
Rarely, Hirudoid Cream can cause a rash in sensitive individuals. If this occurs, stop using the cream and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I use Hirudoid Cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Hirudoid Cream to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
Does Hirudoid Cream interact with other medications?
Hirudoid Cream is unlikely to interact with other medications due to its localized effect. However, always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medicines you are taking.
Can Hirudoid Cream be used on broken skin?
No, Hirudoid Cream should not be used on broken skin, large areas of skin, or near sensitive areas such as the mouth, eyes, or ano-genital regions.
What should I do if I accidentally swallow Hirudoid Cream?
If you or someone else accidentally swallows Hirudoid Cream, contact your doctor or a hospital casualty department immediately, although it is unlikely to be serious.
What should I do if I forget to apply Hirudoid Cream?
If you forget to apply Hirudoid Cream, apply it as soon as you remember. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed application.
