Description
Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne is a topical treatment for haemorrhoids. It is applied around or inside the anus to help soothe, lubricate, and protect sore or itchy skin from further rubbing. It contains 1% Bio-Dyne, a yeast extract from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and 3% shark liver oil, which softens the skin and helps repel moisture. It differs from the North American Preparation H ointment, which contains phenylephrine instead of Bio-Dyne. The product comes in a 50 g tube with an applicator.
| Fact Table |
| Formula |
Not applicable (multi-ingredient formulation) |
| License |
UK medicinal product; varies by country |
| Bioavailability |
Not established |
| Legal status |
OTC (Non-prescription) |
| Chemical Name |
Yeast cell derivative (Bio-Dyne), Shark liver oil |
| Elimination half-life |
Not established |
| Dosage (Strength) |
Yeast cell derivative 1% w/w; Shark liver oil 3% w/w |
| Pregnancy |
Consult a healthcare professional before use |
| Brands |
Preparation H |
| Protein binding |
Not established |
| PubChem CID |
Not applicable to combination formulation |
| MedlinePlus |
No product-specific identifier established |
| ChEBI |
Not applicable to combination formulation |
| ATC code |
C05AX03 |
| DrugBank |
No product-specific identifier established |
| KEGG |
No product-specific identifier established |
| Routes of administration |
Topical (external anorectal), Rectal |
Directions
Clean and dry the area gently by patting or blotting it with toilet tissue or a soft cloth. Apply the ointment up to four times daily, especially at bedtime, in the morning, and after each bowel movement.
For internal use, remove the applicator cover, attach it to the tube, coat it with ointment, and gently insert it into the rectum. Apply ointment to the outside as well, then wash the applicator and replace its cover. Children under 12 should only use it with advice from a healthcare provider. Stop using it and contact a healthcare provider if you notice bleeding or if symptoms do not improve within seven days.
Ingredients
The active ingredients are live yeast cell derivative and shark liver oil. Other ingredients may include paraffin, liquid paraffin, ozokerite, lanolin, lanolin alcohol, lanolin wax, glycerin, fish liver oil, petrolatum, methylparaben, propylparaben, butylated hydroxytoluene, retinyl palmitate, and fragrance containing linalool.
Cautions
-
Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
- Stop and get advice if your symptoms have not improved within seven days, or if they are getting worse.
- Do not use more than the label directs unless a healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
- Stop using the applicator and speak to a healthcare provider if inserting it makes the pain worse.
- Tell your healthcare provider if you react to lanolin or wool alcohols since the ointment contains both lanolin and lanolin alcohol.
- Check the label if you are sensitive to parabens since it contains methylparaben and propylparaben.
- Avoid this product if you have a fish allergy, as it contains shark liver oil and fish liver oil.
- Keep it away from your eyes, and rinse them with water if any gets in.
- Store it out of reach of children.
- Ask a healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- A known sensitivity to live yeast cell derivative, shark liver oil, lanolin, the parabens, or any other ingredient in the ointment.
- Inserting the applicator causes additional pain.
- The person to be treated is under 12, unless a healthcare provider has advised it.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne include:
- Mild stinging or burning when it first goes on
- Local irritation or redness
- Itching
- A greasy residue that can mark underwear
Stop using the ointment and speak to a pharmacist or healthcare provider if irritation worsens instead of settling, or if a rash appears around the treated area, since lanolin and the parabens are both potential causes of a contact allergy.
Get medical help for rectal bleeding, for pain that is severe or escalating, or for a lump that feels hard, is very tender, or has recently changed.
Seek urgent care for hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
References
-
Preparation H Ointment
Actual Medicinal Product Record.
Brentford, UK: Haleon UK Trading Ltd; 2026.
-
Preparation H (live yeast cell derivative, shark-liver oil)
Authorised Medicine Record.
Dublin, Ireland: Health Products Regulatory Authority; 2007.
-
Shark Liver Oil 3% / Yeast Cell Extract 1% Ointment
Virtual Medicinal Product Record.
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK: NHS Business Services Authority; 2026.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
Frequently Asked Questions about Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment with Bio-Dyne
1. What is Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment with Bio-Dyne used for?
Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment with Bio-Dyne is used to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with internal and external hemorrhoids. It helps reduce discomfort caused by swelling, itching, burning, and irritation around the anal area. The ointment also provides lubrication and a protective coating to help make bowel movements more comfortable.
2. How does Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne work?
Preparation H Ointment contains Bio-Dyne, a yeast-derived ingredient also known as hydrolyzed yeast or live yeast cell derivative. The formulation helps soothe irritated hemorrhoidal tissue, while its lubricating ingredients provide a protective barrier that reduces friction and discomfort. It provides temporary symptom relief but does not permanently cure hemorrhoids.
3. How do you apply Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment?
Gently clean and dry the affected area before applying the ointment. Apply a small amount to the external hemorrhoidal area as directed on the product label. For internal hemorrhoids, use the supplied applicator if the specific product instructions permit intrarectal application. Lubricate the applicator before insertion, insert it gently, and clean it thoroughly after each use.
4. How often can you use Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne?
Adults may generally apply Preparation H Ointment up to four times daily, particularly in the morning, at bedtime, and after bowel movements, according to the applicable product directions. Do not exceed the recommended frequency on your product label. If symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment, consult a healthcare professional.
5. How long does Preparation H Ointment take to work?
Preparation H Ointment may begin soothing itching, burning, and irritation shortly after application, although the time needed for relief varies between individuals. Swelling and other hemorrhoidal symptoms may take longer to improve. If symptoms do not improve within approximately seven days, or become worse sooner, consult a healthcare professional.
6. Can Preparation H Ointment be used for both internal and external hemorrhoids?
Yes. Certain Preparation H Ointment formulations with Bio-Dyne are intended to relieve symptoms of both internal and external hemorrhoids. The ointment can be applied externally, and formulations supplied with appropriate intrarectal instructions may be administered internally using the provided applicator. Always follow the directions for your specific product, as formulations and approved uses can differ by country.
7. What are the possible side effects of Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne?
Possible side effects include mild stinging, burning, itching, redness, or irritation at the application site. Some individuals may develop an allergic skin reaction to ingredients such as lanolin, fragrance, or preservatives. Stop using the ointment and contact a healthcare professional if irritation worsens or a rash develops. Seek urgent medical attention for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat.
8. Can you use Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Some Preparation H formulations may be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, but ingredients and product instructions vary. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Preparation H Ointment with Bio-Dyne to confirm that your specific formulation is appropriate.
9. Can children use Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment?
Preparation H Ointment is generally intended for adults. Children under 12 years of age should not use the product unless advised by a doctor. Rectal pain, itching, or bleeding in children should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
10. When should you see a doctor while using Preparation H Ointment?
Consult a healthcare professional if hemorrhoidal symptoms persist, worsen, or do not improve within approximately seven days. Seek medical evaluation if you experience rectal bleeding, severe or increasing pain, or a new painful lump near the anus. These symptoms may require further assessment because conditions other than hemorrhoids can cause similar discomfort.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 394