Rapid Relief

Topical nitroglycerin (also called glyceryl trinitrate, or GTN) helps treat anal fissures and hemorrhoids by releasing nitric oxide, which relaxes the internal anal sphincter muscle. This reduces pressure in the anal canal, improves blood flow to irritated or damaged tissue, and supports the natural healing process.

Nitroglycerin is one of the most extensively studied topical treatments for chronic anal fissures — clinical trials show it can heal up to 7 in 10 cases, making it a well-established first-line option recommended across clinical guidelines. Unlike surgical treatments such as lateral sphincterotomy, which carry a risk of incontinence in up to 30% of patients, nitroglycerin offers an effective non-invasive alternative that can be applied at home.

The same sphincter-relaxing effect also helps reduce pressure and discomfort associated with symptomatic hemorrhoids, supporting tissue repair and improving comfort. In the Rapid Relief Rx cream, nitroglycerin is combined with lidocaine and bupivacaine for immediate and extended pain relief, hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and itching, and metronidazole to address bacterial activity in irritated tissue — making it a comprehensive formula that treats both the symptoms and the underlying cause.

One thing to be aware of: some patients experience mild headaches, particularly in early use, as a known side effect of nitroglycerin. This is normal and typically decreases over time. If headaches are a concern, our Long-Acting Rx cream featuring diltiazem offers comparable healing with no headache risk.

Metronidazole is included in our topical treatments for anal fissures and hemorrhoids to help reduce inflammation and support healing tissue. While it is not the primary medication used to heal fissures or hemorrhoids, studies have shown that topical metronidazole can reduce pain and discomfort after hemorrhoid surgery by decreasing bacterial colonization and calming local inflammation. When included in compounded formulations, metronidazole may help improve comfort for patients experiencing significant inflammatory pain, postoperative wounds, or mixed anorectal irritation, making the healing process more tolerable.

Many patients with anal fissures or hemorrhoids have more than one underlying issue, such as sphincter muscle tension, inflammation, or poor blood flow to healing tissue. Compounded topical treatments combine medications with different mechanisms to address these problems at the same time—helping relax the anal sphincter, improve circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation. This approach simplifies treatment with a single medication and can improve healing, comfort, and adherence while helping some patients avoid more invasive procedures.

Apply a pea-sized amount to inside of anus 3 to 4 times a day. Finger cots are included in your order for easy application.

Immediately.

90 days

Safe for most users without migraine or headache history. Not safe for use if you are pregnant.

Visit our FAQs page for more information.