What are the different types of enemas. How do enemas work. What are the steps to properly administer an enema. What are the potential risks and benefits of using enemas. When should you consult a healthcare provider before using an enema.

Understanding Enemas: Purpose and Function

An enema is a medical procedure involving the injection of fluid into the lower bowel through the rectum. Its primary purpose is to clean the colon and alleviate constipation. Enemas are particularly useful for elderly individuals, who are five times more likely to experience constipation due to reduced mobility, medication side effects, and diminished defecation urges.

The effectiveness of enemas lies in their ability to stimulate the colon. In cleansing enemas, the rectum’s distension triggers contractions that help eliminate stool. Phosphate enemas, on the other hand, directly stimulate the colon muscles to promote bowel movements.

Who Might Benefit from Enemas?

• Individuals with severe constipation
• Elderly patients with chronic constipation
• Patients preparing for certain medical procedures
• Those requiring specific medication administration

Types of Enemas: From Diagnostic to Therapeutic

Enemas serve various purposes in medical settings, ranging from diagnostic procedures to therapeutic interventions. Let’s explore the different types of enemas and their specific uses.

Contrast Enemas for Diagnostic Imaging

Contrast enemas play a crucial role in diagnostic imaging, allowing healthcare providers to visualize the large bowel or colon. These procedures use special solutions or air that appear on X-rays, revealing potential abnormalities in the distal small intestines or colon.

1. Standard Contrast Enema: Utilizes a specific enema fluid visible on X-rays. This type is often used to check for Hirschsprung’s disease in patients with constipation.
2. Air Contrast Barium Enema: Combines air and barium to create detailed images. It’s frequently employed to identify sources of rectal bleeding.

Both types of contrast enemas require special preparation before the procedure. Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Cleansing Enemas for Constipation Relief

Cleansing enemas are the most common type used to treat constipation. They work by stimulating the colon to eliminate stool. While these can be performed at home, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before attempting any DIY enema solutions.

Popular at-home cleansing enema types include:

• Saltwater enema: A saline solution made from salt and lukewarm distilled water
• Baking soda enema: A mixture of baking soda and water
• Tap water enema: Plain water used to relieve constipation symptoms

It’s important to note that healthcare providers generally do not recommend homemade enemas due to potential risks. Always seek professional guidance before performing an enema at home.

The Enema Administration Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Properly administering an enema is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. Here’s a detailed guide on how to perform an enema:

1. Warm the enema solution in a bowl of warm water.
2. Remove the cap from the tip of the enema bottle, holding it upright to prevent spills.
3. Lubricate the tip of the rectal tube with a water-soluble lubricant (about 5 cm).
4. Pour the prescribed amount of solution into the enema bag.
5. Test the enema device by unclamping the tubing and allowing a small amount of solution to run into a container. Check the temperature by dropping a few drops on your wrist.
6. Lie on your left side on a towel, with your knees bent towards your chest.
7. Clamp the tubing and gently insert the nozzle into your rectum, pointing towards your belly button.
8. If you encounter resistance, slowly remove the nozzle and try again at a different angle. Stop the process and contact your healthcare provider if resistance persists.
9. Hold the enema bag about 12-15 inches above your hips and slowly release the solution into the rectum.
10. Breathe deeply through your mouth to help relax your internal anal sphincter.
11. If the solution starts to leak, squeeze your buttocks firmly around the tube.
12. In case of cramping, temporarily stop the flow by pinching the tubing, then resume when you feel better.
13. Once all the solution is administered, clamp the tubing and remove it from the rectum.
14. Remain in the same position until you feel the urge to have a bowel movement.

Safety Considerations and Potential Risks of Enemas

While enemas can be effective for constipation relief, they are not without risks. Understanding these potential complications is essential for safe use.

What are the possible side effects of enemas?

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Dehydration
• Rectal irritation or damage
• Infection (if equipment is not properly sterilized)
• Bowel perforation (in rare cases)

To minimize risks, always use sterile equipment and follow proper administration techniques. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or fever after an enema, seek medical attention immediately.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While enemas can be helpful for occasional constipation relief, they should not be used as a long-term solution without medical supervision. Consult a healthcare provider if:

• You experience chronic constipation
• You’re considering frequent enema use
• You have underlying health conditions that might be affected by enema use
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• You experience persistent abdominal pain or rectal bleeding

A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of your constipation and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may or may not include enemas.

Alternatives to Enemas for Constipation Relief

While enemas can be effective, they’re not the only option for managing constipation. Consider these alternatives:

Lifestyle Changes

• Increase fiber intake through diet or supplements
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Establish a consistent bathroom routine

Over-the-Counter Remedies

• Stool softeners
• Osmotic laxatives
• Stimulant laxatives (for short-term use)

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have chronic constipation or other digestive issues.

Enemas in Medical Settings: Beyond Constipation Relief

While enemas are commonly associated with constipation treatment, they serve various purposes in medical settings. Understanding these applications can provide insight into the versatility of this procedure.

Preparation for Medical Procedures

Enemas are frequently used to prepare patients for certain medical procedures, such as:

• Colonoscopies
• Colorectal surgeries
• Certain types of X-rays or imaging studies

In these cases, a thorough bowel cleansing is necessary to ensure clear visibility and reduce the risk of complications during the procedure.

Medication Administration

Some medications can be administered via enema for targeted delivery or when oral administration is not possible. Examples include:

• Certain anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammatory bowel diseases
• Some types of pain medications
• Medications to treat parasitic infections in the lower intestine

This method of administration allows for direct delivery to the affected area and can sometimes provide faster relief compared to oral medications.

The History and Evolution of Enema Use

Enemas have a long and fascinating history in medical practice, dating back to ancient civilizations. Understanding this history provides context for their current use and highlights the importance of evidence-based medical practices.

Ancient Origins

The use of enemas can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where they were believed to have both medical and spiritual purposes. The ancient Greeks and Romans also utilized enemas for various health concerns.

Medieval and Renaissance Periods

During these eras, enemas gained popularity as a treatment for a wide range of ailments, often based on the belief that toxins in the bowel were the root cause of many diseases.

Modern Medical Practice

Today, the use of enemas is more targeted and evidence-based. They are primarily used for specific medical purposes, such as treating severe constipation, preparing for medical procedures, or administering certain medications.

This evolution underscores the importance of scientific research in refining medical practices and ensuring patient safety.

Navigating the World of Commercial Enema Products

For those considering at-home enema use under medical supervision, understanding the various commercial products available can be helpful. Here’s an overview of common types:

Pre-packaged Saline Enemas

These are ready-to-use enemas containing a saline solution. They’re typically used for occasional constipation relief and are available over-the-counter at most pharmacies.

Enema Kits

These kits include a reusable bag or bottle and tubing for administering enemas. They allow for the use of various solutions as recommended by a healthcare provider.

Disposable Enema Systems

Similar to pre-packaged saline enemas, these are single-use systems that come with the solution already included. They’re designed for ease of use and hygienic disposal.

Specialty Enema Solutions

Some products contain additives like minerals or herbs. These should only be used under direct medical supervision due to potential risks.

When choosing an enema product, always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific needs and health condition.

In conclusion, while enemas can be an effective tool for managing certain health issues, they should be used judiciously and under proper medical guidance. Understanding the different types, proper administration techniques, and potential risks is crucial for safe and effective use. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual health needs.

How to Do It and Why

Published

17 June 2020

Fact Checked

Reviewed by Tanya Tantry, MD, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Medical Consultant at Flo

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Enemas are usually used to relieve severe constipation. Read this guide to find out what an enema is, the different types of enemas, and how to give an enema.

What is an enema?

An enema is a process where a fluid is injected into the lower bowel by way of the rectum. The purpose of the enema is to help clean the colon and relieve constipation.

Many people suffer from constipation. Elderly people are five times more prone to constipation than young people due to their lack of mobility, side effects of medication, and a blunted urge to defecate. Many people choose to treat constipation with over-the-counter drugs, but sometimes constipation can be so severe that it results in a trip to the hospital. 

The most common medical uses of enemas are bowel cleansing, X-ray preparation, and medication administration.

How does an enema work?

Different types of enemas work in different ways. In cleansing enemas, the rectum distends, which allows the enema to stimulate the colon and cause contractions that eliminate stool. Alternatively, a phosphate enema directly stimulates the muscles of the colon, allowing for the release of bowel movements.

Types of enemas

Contrast enema

Contrast enemas use a special enema solution (or air) that shows up well on X-rays, which can then take pictures of the large bowel or colon. This test shows health care providers if the patient has any abnormalities of the distal small intestines or colon. 

There are two types of enemas used for X-rays:

• A contrast enema uses a specific kind of enema fluid that can show up on an X-ray. There are special preparations you’ll need to make before a health care provider can perform this test. Health care providers often use contrast enemas for people experiencing constipation to check for Hirschprung’s disease. 
• An air contrast barium enema uses a combination of air and barium. This combination shows up on an X-ray and is often used to look for a source of rectal bleeding. Bowel preparation is also required for this test. 

Cleansing enema

Cleansing enemas are most commonly used to treat constipation. The process stimulates the colon to eliminate stool.

Cleansing enemas can be performed at home. Some popular at-home enema types are:

• Saltwater enema — A saline solution made from salt and lukewarm distilled water
• Baking soda enema — A solution of baking soda and water
• Tap water enema — A plain water enema can relieve constipation symptoms 

Health care providers do not recommend using homemade enemas. Always talk with your health care provider before performing an enema at home, and follow their instructions carefully.

How to do an enema

Before attempting the process at home, it’s essential that you know how to use an enema. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to perform an enema:

1. Warm the enema in a bowl of warm water. Remove the cap from the tip and hold the bottle upright so the contents don’t spill out. 
2. Make sure to lubricate the tip of the rectal tube. Lubricate five centimeters of the tip with a water-soluble lubricant. 
3. Pour the precise amount of solution as instructed into the enema bag. 
4. Test that the enema contraption works by unclamping the tubing to allow a small amount of the solution to run into a container. Drop a few drops of the solution on your wrist to test the temperature.
5. Lie on your left side on a towel, with your knees bent up toward your chest as high up as is comfortable. 
6. Clamp the tubing and gently put the nozzle into your rectum pointing towards your belly button. How far the nozzle is inserted will depend on your age. Make sure to follow the instructions given by your health care provider.
7. If there’s any resistance as you insert the tip, slowly remove it and try again at a different angle. If there’s further resistance, stop the process and call your health care provider. 
8. Hold the enema bag about 12–15 inches above your hips. Slowly squirt the solution into the rectum. Breathe deeply through your mouth to help relax your internal anal sphincter.
9. If the solution starts to run out of the rectum, squeeze your butt firmly around the tube. 
10. If you experience cramping, shut off the flow of solution for a couple of seconds by pinching the tubing together and then restart the process when you’re feeling better.
11. When all the solution is done, clamp the tubing and remove it from the rectum. 
12. Remain in the same position until the urge to have a bowel movement is strong. Ideally, you should try to hold in the liquid for as long as possible.
13. When you can no longer hold the liquid, you will feel a strong sensation to empty your bowels. Go to the toilet and stay there for the next hour.
14. Some people experience stomach cramps for a short time after an enema. Additionally, some people will feel faint or dizzy afterwards. If this happens, it’s best to lie down until you feel better.
15. The enema should work within the first hour.

Why use an enema?

If you’re trying to make yourself poop immediately, an enema is often a solid course of action. The most frequent enema solutions are for constipation or bowel cleansing before a medical procedure or examination (such as a colonoscopy). 

Fleet enemas use forms of a naturally occurring substance called phosphorus that’s important to every cell in the body. Fleet enemas are used to treat constipation and clean bowels before X-rays, colon surgery, or endoscopy exams. 

You might get an enema if you’re trying to clean the lower bowel, receive medications, or help clear out gas or stool.

What are the risks of using an enema?

Enemas can be incredibly useful but can result in serious side effects, such as metabolic derangement or perforation. Hypertonic sodium phosphate enemas can be particularly dangerous to elderly patients with chronic renal failure or patients who have been treated with ACE inhibitors. In these patients, phosphate enemas may cause severe phosphate nephropathy. 

The side effects of cleansing enemas are rarely discussed, but the process can be life-threatening. The most frequent cause of perforation comes from the device tip. In some cases, the perforation is due to a weakness of the rectal wall, an obstruction, or the position of the person when the enema was performed. 

You should never use more than one enema in 24 hours. If you don’t see results within an hour of performing an enema, call your health care provider. A fleet enema typically has a shorter turnaround time, and you should see results within 30 minutes.

Typically, enemas are safe, but there are rare cases where too many enemas can have life-threatening effects on the heart or kidneys.  

Alert your health care provider immediately if you perform an enema and feel:

• Little or no ability to urinate
• Drowsiness
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet

Enemas should not be used by patients with:

• Congestive heart failure
• Active inflammatory bowel disease
• Severe kidney failure
• A perforated bowel
• Megacolon
• Paralytic ileus
• Rectal obstruction
• A blockage in the digestive tract
• Other intestinal disorders
• Dehydration 

The takeaway

It can be helpful to understand how an enema works, in case there’s ever a time in your life when you or your family member needs one. Performing an enema at home can be safe if you understand what you’re doing. Always talk with your health care provider before you attempt any medical process at home. 

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3641812/
https://www. chp.edu/our-services/surgery-pediatric/pediatric-surgery-services-we-offer/colorectal-center-for-children/patient-family-resources/enema-adminstration
https://www.dietandnutritionfact.com/baking-soda-enema-2/
http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/PedSurgery/ColorectalProgram/EnemaProgram.pdf
http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/MPU/TapWaterEnemaAnoscopy.pdf
https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/e/enema
https://www.kch.nhs.uk/Doc/pl%20-%20579.3%20-%20guidance%20for%20using%20an%20enema.pdf
https://journals.lww.com/nursing/fulltext/2003/11000/administering_an_enema_to_an_adult.25.aspx
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/fleet-enema-rectal.html

History of updates

Current version
(17 June 2020)

Reviewed by Tanya Tantry, MD, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Medical Consultant at Flo

Published
(14 June 2020)

What is an enema and how do I use one?

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An enema involves inserting liquid or gas into the rectum, which is the lower part of the large intestine. The aim is to empty the bowels, allow for an examination, or administer medication.

An enema can be effective in treating certain medical conditions, but regular enema use can cause serious health problems.

Because of the risks involved, a person should only use an enema for medical reasons.

In this article, we find out more about enemas and how to use them safely.

A medical professional may give an enema, or a person can use one at home.

Many pharmacies sell enema kits, and these are also available online. Choose one that a healthcare provider has recommended.

A kit usually includes a bag or another type of container attached to a tube or nozzle. This container holds a liquid, which may contain an oil or laxative.

Anyone with sufficient flexibility in their arms and shoulders to reach behind them should be able to use an enema at home.

There are some risks when using an enema:

• Using too much liquid: In this case, the body may hold some liquid in and release it without warning.
• Stretching the bowel: This increases the chance of perforation, which is a risk when the lining of the colon is torn. It can cause the colon’s contents to leak into the body.
• Using liquid that is too hot or cold: This can cause discomfort or pain. The liquid in an enema should be at room temperature.

Use the recommended amount of room temperature liquid, and do not use an enema too frequently.

Things to remember

Each enema kit is slightly different and should come with clear instructions. Reading these instructions carefully can help make sure enema use is safe and effective.

Make sure to plan enough time for the enema to work and to take a rest afterward, if needed. Doctors generally recommend having access to a bathroom for 1 hour after using an enema.

An enema can be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. If there is a pain, stop and seek medical advice. Using petroleum jelly can ease discomfort during insertion.

Enema instructions

Instructions for every enema kit are different, but most follow these general steps:

1. Choose a quiet place with space to lie down, ideally a bathroom, and have towels, a timer, and the enema kit ready.
2. Remove all clothing from the lower half of the body.
3. Wash the hands with soap and hot water and dry them thoroughly.
4. Lay a towel on the floor and lie on the left side of the body if right-handed or on the right side of the body if left-handed.
5. Bend the knee of the topmost leg, and place a rolled towel underneath the knee to support it.
6. Remove the cap from the nozzle of the enema.
7. Gently insert the tip of the nozzle into the anus, and continue inserting it 10 centimeters (3–4 inches) into the rectum.
8. Slowly squeeze the liquid from the container until it is empty, then gently remove the nozzle from the rectum.
9. Wait for the enema to take effect. This can take anywhere from 2 minutes to 1 hour, and the kit’s instructions should give a more specific estimate.
10. Go to the toilet as usual to empty the bowels.

An enema is an invasive procedure, and a person should only use one for medical reasons. Buy an enema kit from a reputable pharmacy — avoid homemade kits.

Using an enema as a regular treatment for constipation can cause health problems. The body can become reliant on enemas to pass stool, and the muscles in the gut may weaken over time. It may become difficult to pass stool naturally, and in some cases, enema overuse could cause incontinence.

Frequent constipation can indicate a medical condition. If a person has concerns about constipation, a doctor can advise about possible causes and recommend diet and lifestyle changes.

Anyone with a compromised immune system — because of a disease such as leukemia, for example — should not use an enema, because of the risk that bacteria may enter the body. A person with a weakened immune system may not be fully able to fight an infection.

Anyone with rectal prolapse, in which the very end of the lower intestine comes out of the body, should avoid using an enema. If a person has hemorrhoids, they should take extra care to avoid further discomfort.

If a person has had a bowel obstruction or colon surgery, they have an increased risk of bowel perforation and should avoid using an enema.

The use of an enema before giving birth is no longer the standard recommendation. The procedure is invasive and does not benefit a woman in labor.

Share on PinterestCoffee enemas are popular but potentially dangerous.

Enemas can help treat some medical conditions. They can also prepare a person for certain medical procedures.

There is no scientific evidence that an enema benefits general health, and using an enema to detox can be harmful. Inserting substances such as coffee or oil into the body can also introduce harmful bacteria.

Some common uses of an enema include:

Preparation for surgery

It is usually necessary to have an empty bowel before surgery on the rectum, colon, or gut. A person may need to use an enema at home before surgery, or a medical professional may give an enema in the hospital.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is the use of a small camera to check the health of the rectum or bowel. The bowel will need to be empty before this procedure.

A person may need to limit their diet for a few days before the procedure. The doctor may also prescribe an enema to ensure that the bowel is empty.

Cancer screening

A barium enema can help check for bowel or colon cancer. One enema empties the bowel, and another puts liquid barium into the rectum. This shows up on an X-ray to give clear images of the bowels. After the procedure, the barium passes from the body in a bowel movement.

Constipation

An enema can help treat severe constipation.

There are two main types of enema for constipation. The first lubricates the bowels to help stool pass quickly. The second is a retention enema, which stays in the body for longer. A retention enema is usually oil-based, and it soaks the stool to ease its passage from the body.

Regular use of enemas to treat constipation can cause health problems. A more lasting way to resolve constipation is with diet and lifestyle changes. Drinking enough water and including plenty of fiber in the diet can keep bowel movements healthy and regular.

Medication

People can administer medication using an enema. This can especially help with treating health problems affecting the colon, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

In some cases, an enema can deliver other types of medication. This is because the network of blood vessels in the rectum can transport medicine quickly to other parts of the body.

An enema can help treat certain health issues and they are a necessary step for some medical procedures. However, regular use can cause long-term problems, and a person should always follow professional advice when using an enema.

The bowel is delicate, and a person should take care when using an enema. Bacteria can upset the balance of the gut and cause infection, and it is possible to injure the rectum. Follow the instructions carefully, and make sure to be gentle.

Various types of enemas and methods of setting them

General Medicine/June 14, 2017 10:12

Enemas vary depending on the purpose and composition of the liquid. Known siphon, hypertonic, oily and medicinal. Let us consider in more detail the features and techniques of setting various types of enemas.

Oil enema

This enema is used for severe constipation, especially complicated by spasms. The oil relaxes the muscles of the intestine, and also enhances peristalsis. About two hundred grams of oil with a temperature slightly above body temperature is used as a liquid. Such enemas are usually given at night, since the therapeutic effect is achieved approximately 12 hours after administration. As with other enemas, after setting it is required to be in a supine position for about half an hour. Due to the fact that the volume of injected oil is small, it is not advisable to use a mug. Usually a rubber bulb is used.

Features of the siphon enema

The siphon enema is necessary when the body is intoxicated with chemicals, food, medicines, etc. A siphon enema can quickly cleanse the intestines with a single injection of a large amount of liquid. The staging of a siphon enema is also indicated for prolonged painful constipation, when a simple cleansing enema does not help, as well as for intestinal obstruction in preparation for surgery. A large volume of liquid is needed, with a capacity of about two liters, as well as a tube of sufficient length, ending with a flexible tip, and a large amount of prepared sodium bicarbonate solution or a weakly concentrated solution of potassium permanganate.

The required amount of liquid for a siphon enema is up to twelve liters. The technique of setting this enema differs from the technique of setting the usual depth of penetration of the tip into the rectum: it is inserted 20-30 cm. The funnel with water operates on the principle of communicating vessels, so it is necessary to monitor the water level and add it until clean water is obtained at the exit from the intestine.

Hypertonic enema

The very name of this enema suggests that it should stimulate bowel movement in its atony. Such a solution is prepared by saturating 100 milliliters of water with 10 grams of salt. It is necessary to keep the solution in the intestines for about half an hour. Such an enema has a positive effect on the removal of edema as an additional therapeutic method.

Medicinal enemas

The absorption of medicinal substances through the intestinal walls is rather low, so the administration of medicinal enemas to obtain a general therapeutic effect is impractical. It is resorted to only if it is necessary to act locally on the site of the intestine itself, the sigmoid colon, and also with prostatitis. The volume of the drug is the same as with a hypertonic enema, therefore, a rubber pear is used for injection. To obtain a therapeutic effect, it is necessary to follow a strict rule: prepare for the formulation of a medicinal enema by cleansing the intestines with a regular cleansing enema.

There are contraindications. Before use, consult with a specialist.

• intestinal cramps,
• gastrointestinal tract,
• enema

Types of enemas

Emptying:
– Cleaning

– Siphon

– Relaxing

Laxative:
–
Oil

– Hypertensive

Medicinal:
–
Micro enema

– Drip

C
therapeutic purposes are used: cleansing,
siphon and medicinal enemas.
Diagnostic
enema applied:

– For
recognition of intestinal obstruction

– For
x-ray examination
colon (irrigoscopy) use
contrast enema containing a suspension
radiopaque agent

– At
preparation for endoscopic examination
large intestine.

Introduced
staging liquid cleaning fluid
enema renders mechanical,
temperature and chemical effects,
enhances peristalsis, loosens
feces and facilitate their removal.

mechanical
the impact of the enema is the more significant,
the more liquid. Except
mechanical impact reinforcement
temperature promotes peristalsis
injected fluid. It should be remembered
that the colder the water, the stronger it
irritates the intestines, and vice versa. That’s why
with constipation due to atony
(lethargy) of the intestinal muscles, put
cool enemas (from 14 to 20 ° C), and with
constipation due to spastic
colitis, hot enemas (35-40 ° C). But not
forget that if the temperature of the enema
more than room temperature 20-30 ° C, then the intestines
begins to absorb water into itself, and than
the higher the water temperature, the more
the intestine absorbs water. Use
for enema water with a temperature of more
40 °C is dangerous for health, possible
severe burn of the large intestine. At
performing a cleansing enema
need to use water
thermometer.

Hypertensive
enema not
only enhances intestinal motility,
but also causes copious excretion of fluid
into the intestinal lumen, resulting in profuse
chair.

Also
for a softer effect on the wall
bowel is used to empty it
oil enema. The oil that
spreads along the intestinal wall,
envelops the feces, relaxes the intestinal
muscles and promotes excretion
feces. The patient should lie down after the enema
quietly for 10-15 minutes to oil
didn’t leak.

feature
medicinal
enemas is what if in their composition
includes drugs that can
be absorbed into the bloodstream
they do not enter the liver and significantly
are less destroyed by acting more
actively. If the drugs administered are not
absorbed, then only affect
locally. Also medicinal enemas
used if the administration of drugs
substances through the mouth is difficult or
contraindicated, you can enter them through
rectum where they are absorbed and
quickly enter the bloodstream. Medicinal
enemas are divided into local and
general action. The first ones apply
in inflammatory processes in the colon
intestines, and the second – for introduction into
drug body. For example,
for the relief of psychomotor
excitation and convulsions use
chloral hydrate enema (1.5-2 g per 50 ml of water)
with starchy mucus.

At
inability to administer nutrients
substances by mouth (oral nutrition),
can be administered through
rectum in the form of nutrient
enema .

Important!
It should be noted that in the rectum
only water is absorbed, physiological
solution, glucose solution, ethyl
alcohol, weak solutions of proteins
(non-concentrated broth), solutions
amino acids.