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Health

Glycerin suppositories

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 14.06.2024
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Glycerin suppositories are a medical form of a drug that is used for rectal administration. They consist of glycerin as the active ingredient and a base, usually a gel formulation, that melts at body temperature to allow easy insertion into the rectum.

Glycerin suppositories have various medical uses:

  1. Stimulate bowel movements: Glycerin has a mild laxative effect, so suppositories are used to help relieve constipation by stimulating intestinal motility and softening stools.
  2. Stool Softeners: Glycerin has hygroscopic properties, which means it is able to attract water. Therefore, suppositories can also be used to moisten and soften stool, making bowel movements easier.
  3. Preparation for medical procedures: Glycerin suppositories are sometimes used as part of the colon cleansing process before medical procedures such as colonoscopies.

Glycerin suppositories are usually available over the counter and can be used on your own to relieve temporary bowel problems such as constipation. However, it is recommended to consult a physician before use, especially if you have any medical problems or are taking medications.

Indications Glycerin suppositories

  1. Constipation: Glycerin suppositories help stimulate intestinal motility and moisten stool, making bowel movements easier and softening stools. They are widely used for temporary relief of constipation in children and adults.
  2. Preparation for medical procedures: Sometimes glycerin suppositories are used in preparation for medical procedures, such as colonoscopy, to ensure a clean bowel.
  3. For anal itching: Sometimes glycerin suppositories can be used to relieve anal itching and discomfort associated with various conditions such as hemorrhoids.
  4. Establishing an intermediate contact for therapeutic substances: Glycerin suppositories can also be used to introduce other drugs into the rectum.

Release form

Glycerin suppositories are a medical product that is used to gently cleanse the colon, relieve constipation, or prepare for medical procedures such as a rectal exam or colonoscopy. These suppositories are in solid administration form for rectal use.

The method of using glycerin suppositories usually includes the following steps:

  1. Place the suppository into the rectum. Many people prefer to do this while lying on their side with their knees bent.
  2. Keep the suppository in the intestines as long as possible to allow the glycerin to work.
  3. Usually, the action begins within a short time after the administration of the suppository.

Pharmacodynamics

  1. Osmotic action: Glycerin has an osmotic property, which means that it is able to attract water to itself. When a glycerin suppository is inserted into the rectum, the glycerin attracts water from the lining of the rectum and surrounding tissues, which helps soften the stool and make it easier to pass through the intestines.
  2. Mild laxative effect: Glycerin suppositories gently stimulate intestinal motility due to their osmotic effect, which promotes the natural process of bowel movement.
  3. Fast-acting: Glycerin suppositories usually begin to work within minutes of administration, making them an effective remedy for relieving constipation.
  4. Lack of force: Glycerin suppositories are gentle and do not cause irritation of the rectal mucosa. They usually do not cause a strong desire to defecate and do not lead to the development of bowel laziness.
  5. Safety: Glycerin suppositories are generally considered safe for use and can even be used by children and pregnant women.

Pharmacokinetics

Glycerol suppositories are rectangular or cone-shaped medicinal preparations that are used to treat constipation and soften stool. Glycerin, the main active ingredient, has a laxative and laxative effect, helping to stimulate peristalsis and moisten stools, making them soft and easy to pass.

Drug interactions for glycerin suppositories are mostly limited to the possibility of using other medications concurrently with glycerin to treat other conditions. Since glycerin suppositories are applied directly to the rectum and are not generally absorbed into the bloodstream, their systemic drug interactions are not as important as those of drugs taken orally.

Dosing and administration

Dosage and administration of glycerin suppositories may vary depending on your individual needs and your doctor's recommendations. Here are general recommendations:

Method of application:

  1. Place the suppository into the rectum.
  2. Keep it in the intestines as long as possible to allow the glycerin to work.
  3. Usually the action of the suppository begins a short time after administration.

Dosage: The dosage of glycerin suppositories is usually 1 suppository (1 g) once daily for adults and children over 12 years of age. For children aged 2 to 12 years, the dosage may be half a suppository (0.5 g) once daily.

Use Glycerin suppositories during pregnancy

Glycerin suppositories are generally considered safe during pregnancy, as glycerin is a relatively mild laxative. However, as with any medication during pregnancy, it is important to exercise caution and consult with your doctor before use. Your doctor can make recommendations regarding dosage and duration of use based on your individual needs and the circumstances of your pregnancy.

Contraindications

  1. Allergy or intolerance to glycerin: People with a known allergy or intolerance to glycerin should avoid the use of glycerin suppositories.
  2. Inflammation of the rectum or anus: If you have inflammation of the rectum or anus, the use of glycerin suppositories may cause additional irritation and discomfort.
  3. Condition after surgery in the rectum: In some cases, after surgery in the rectum, the use of suppositories may be contraindicated. In such cases, you should discuss the possibility of use with your doctor.
  4. Children under 2 years of age: Glycerin suppositories are not recommended for children under 2 years of age without first consulting a doctor.
  5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Data on the safety of glycerin suppositories during pregnancy and breastfeeding are limited, so their use requires consultation with a doctor.
  6. Conditions requiring more serious treatment: If constipation is part of a more serious condition, such as acute intestinal disease or intestinal obstruction, glycerin suppositories may be ineffective and even contraindicated. In such cases, a visit to a doctor is required for evaluation and treatment.

Side effects Glycerin suppositories

  1. Anal irritation: Some people may experience temporary irritation or discomfort in the anal area due to the insertion of the suppository.
  2. Increased skin sensitivity: The skin around the anus may become more sensitive due to exposure to glycerin.
  3. Allergic reactions: Rare people may experience allergic reactions to the components of glycerin suppositories, which may manifest as itching, rash or redness of the skin.
  4. Changes in stool: Sometimes glycerin suppositories can cause a temporary change in stool consistency, especially if used frequently or in large doses.
  5. Possible increase in blood pressure: In rare cases, the use of glycerin suppositories may lead to a short-term increase in blood pressure.

Overdose

  1. Local irritation: If too much glycerin suppositories are administered, irritation and discomfort in the rectal area may occur.
  2. Diarrhea: Using excessive amounts of suppositories can lead to overstimulation of intestinal motility and the development of diarrhea.
  3. Dehydration: Excessive diarrhea may cause dehydration due to loss of fluids and electrolytes.
  4. Electrolyte disturbances: With prolonged and excessive diarrhea, electrolyte balance in the body may be disrupted.
  5. Possible effects on children and pregnant women: Children and pregnant women may be at increased risk of developing unwanted effects from an overdose of glycerin suppositories.

Interactions with other drugs

Glycerin suppositories usually do not interact with other drugs, since their action is limited primarily to local effects on the rectum and usually does not lead to systemic effects.

Storage conditions

Glycerin suppositories should generally be stored in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15°C and 25°C. They also need to be protected from direct sunlight, moisture and heat to prevent them from melting or warping. More specific storage instructions may be listed on the package or in the instructions for use of the drug, so it is important to review this information before storing glycerin suppositories. In addition, you should monitor the expiration date of the drug and do not use it after this period has expired.

Attention!

To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Glycerin suppositories " translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.

Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.

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