How long after a suppository can I poop? Does it hurt to poop after using a suppository? Learn the answers to these and other important questions about suppository use.

The Basics of Suppository Use

Suppositories are a popular method of relieving constipation and other digestive issues. They are inserted into the rectum, where they dissolve and help stimulate a bowel movement. However, the use of suppositories can raise questions about timing, discomfort, and potential side effects. Let’s dive into the details to help you understand how to use suppositories effectively and safely.

Timing: When Can I Expect to Poop After a Suppository?

The timing of a bowel movement after using a suppository can vary, but generally, you can expect the following:

• Glycerin suppositories: Typically produce a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes after insertion.
• Senna suppositories: May take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, though the timing can vary for some individuals.

If you do not experience a bowel movement within 12 hours, or if you notice rectal bleeding, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.

Discomfort: Does It Hurt to Poop After a Suppository?

Abdominal pain and cramps are common side effects associated with the insertion of suppositories. However, these discomforts will often subside shortly after the bowels are emptied. You may also experience some minor, temporary swelling around the anal area, but this should disappear after the bowel movement.

Proper Insertion and Handling

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of suppositories, it’s important to follow the proper insertion and handling techniques:

1. Gently spread your buttocks and carefully insert the suppository, tapered end first, about 1 inch into your rectum.
2. Close your legs and remain in a lying or sitting position for about 15 minutes to allow the suppository to dissolve.
3. If the suppository seems too soft, you can hold it under cold water for a minute or two before inserting it.

If the suppository comes out after insertion, it’s likely that you didn’t push it far enough into the rectum. Be sure to push it past the sphincter, the muscular opening of the rectum, to ensure it stays in place.

Dosage and Safety Considerations

When it comes to using suppositories, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product label. Typically, one suppository is recommended for relief of occasional constipation. However, in some cases, your doctor may suggest using two suppositories.

It’s crucial to avoid swallowing suppositories, as this can be dangerous. Suppositories are designed for rectal use only and should never be taken orally.

Positioning for Optimal Insertion

Doctors often recommend lying on your left side when inserting a suppository. This position takes advantage of the natural angle of the rectum, making the insertion process easier and more comfortable.

The Duration of Suppository Effects

The effects of suppositories can last for varying lengths of time, depending on the type of suppository used:

• Glycerin suppositories: Effects typically last for 15 minutes to 1 hour.
• Senna suppositories: Effects may last for 30 minutes to 2 hours, though the timing can vary for some individuals.

It’s important to note that the duration of the suppository’s effects can be influenced by factors such as the individual’s digestive system and the severity of the constipation.

Preparing for Suppository Use

Before using a suppository, it’s recommended to try to pass stool to empty the colon. This helps ensure that the suppository medication is most effective, as it will be able to work on an empty bowel. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use a hand sanitizer before and after inserting the suppository.

Suppositories vs. Oral Medications

Suppositories can offer some advantages over oral medications for managing certain digestive issues. Studies have shown that suppositories can achieve equivalent pain control as oral medication, with fewer side effects and good tolerance. Additionally, many parents prefer using suppositories for post-operative pain control, as they are easier to administer than oral medications.

In conclusion, understanding the proper use of suppositories, including timing, discomfort, and safety considerations, can help you effectively manage constipation and other digestive issues. Remember to always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product label, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any concerns or experience unusual side effects.

Does it hurt to poop after a suppository? – MVOrganizing

Does it hurt to poop after a suppository?

Abdominal pain is another side effect that accompanies the insertion of glycerine suppositories. Cramps will often subside shortly after the bowels are empty. There may be some minor temporary swelling felt around the anal area after insertion of the suppositories, but this will disappear after the bowel movement.

How long does it take for a suppository to absorb?

Gently spread your buttocks open. Carefully push the suppository, tapered end first, about 1 inch into your bottom. Close your legs and sit or lie still for about 15 minutes to let it dissolve.

What happens if you don’t have a bowel movement after a suppository?

If the suppository seems soft, hold it inside the foil wrapper under cold water for one or two minutes. If you do not have a bowel movement within 12 hours after using this medicine or you experience rectal bleeding, contact your doctor or health care professional. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

How long after glycerin suppository Can I poop?

For best results after using Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Adult rectal, stay lying down until you feel the urge to have a bowel movement. This medicine should produce a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes after using the suppository.

How long should I keep a glycerin suppository in?

Using your finger, gently insert the suppository well up into the rectum, pointed end first. After insertion, stay in position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

What happens if a suppository falls out?

If the suppository comes out after you insert it, you may not have pushed it far enough into the rectum. Be sure to push the suppository past the sphincter, which is the muscular opening of the rectum.

Why do you lay on your left side for a suppository?

Doctors recommend lying on your left side. This takes advantage of the natural angle of the rectum and makes it easier to insert the suppository.

How long do the effects of a suppository last?

glycerin suppositories in 15 minutes to 1 hour. senna suppositories in 30 minutes, but may not occur for some individuals for up to 2 hours.

What happens if you take a suppository orally?

Because suppositories may appear similar to a pill that you take orally, there is the risk that they could be accidentally swallowed. Swallowing a boric acid suppository is dangerous, but using one as labeled for vaginal application is generally safe.

Can I take 2 Dulcolax suppositories a day?

one suppository (10 mg) as needed. If your doctor or pharmacist has changed the recommended dose, ask for further information from your doctor or pharmacist. Dulcolax should only be used under medical supervision. where the above is not possible, use two suppositories (2 x 10 mg).

Should I poop before a suppository?

Try to pass stool to empty the colon, as suppository medication is most effective when the bowel is empty. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use a hand sanitizer.

Are suppositories better than pills?

Conclusions: The suppositories achieved equivalent pain control as oral medication with few side effects and good tolerance. Furthermore, many parents preferred the suppositories to oral medication in maintaining postoperative pain control because of ease of administration.

Laxative Suppositories For Constipation – Dulcolax®

Active ingredient (in each suppository)

Bisacodyl USP 10 mg

Purpose

Stimulant laxative

Use

• for relief of occasional constipation and
  irregularity
• this product generally produces bowel
  movement in 15 minutes to 1 hour

Warnings

For rectal use only

Ask a doctor before use if you have

• stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
• noticed a sudden change in bowel habits
  that lasts more than 2 weeks

When using this product it may cause stomach
discomfort, faintness, rectal burning and mild
cramps

Stop use and ask a doctor if

• you have rectal bleeding or no bowel
  movement after using this product. These
  could be signs of a serious
  condition.

• you need to use a laxative for more than 1
  week

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health
professional before use.

Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed,
get medical help or contact a Poison Control
Center right away.

Directions

• Adults and children 12 years of age and over	1 suppository in a single daily dose. Peel open plastic. Insert suppository well into rectum, pointed end first. Retain about 15 to 20 minutes.
  Children 6 to under 12 years of age	1/2 suppository in a single daily dose
  Children under 6 years of age	ask a doctor

Other
information

• Do not use if
  individual blister unit is open or
  torn.

Bisacodyl suppositories

What is this medicine?

BISACODYL (bis a KOE dill) is a laxative. This medicine is used to relieve constipation. It may also be used to empty and prepare the bowel for surgery or examination.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Bisac-Evac, Biscolax, Dulcolax, Laxative

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions

• appendicitis
• persistent constipation
• stomach pain or blockage
• ulcerative colitis or other bowel disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to bisacodyl, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Take off the foil wrapping. Wet the tip of the suppository with cold tap water to make it easier to use. Lie on your side and raise your knee to your chest. Using your finger push the suppository, with the pointed end first, into the rectum. Try and keep the suppository in your rectum for 15 to 20 minutes. If you feel it must come out at once, it was not inserted high enough and should be pushed higher. Do not use this medicine more often than directed by your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be used in children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medicine is not for regular use, and should only be used as needed.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not use this medicine for longer than directed by your doctor or health care professional. This medicine can be habit-forming. Long-term use can make your body depend on the laxative for regular bowel movements, damage the bowel, cause malnutrition, and problems with the amounts of water and salts in your body. If your constipation keeps returning, check with your doctor or health care professional.

If the suppository seems soft, hold it inside the foil wrapper under cold water for one or two minutes.

If you do not have a bowel movement within 12 hours after using this medicine or you experience rectal bleeding, contact your doctor or health care professional. These may be signs of a more serious condition.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• diarrhea
• muscle weakness
• nausea, vomiting
• unusual weight loss

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bloating
• discolored urine
• lower stomach discomfort or cramps
• rectal itching, burning, or swelling

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Should a suppository be inserted with the blunt end or the pointed end first, or does it not matter?

Nursing practice often involves undertaking procedures about which there is debate or uncertainty. In Practice Questions we ask experts to determine how nurses should approach these procedures.

This week: Should a suppository be inserted with the blunt end or the pointed end first, or does it not matter?

• Figures and tables can be seen in the attached print-friendly PDF file of the complete article in the ‘Files’ section of this page

Q Should a suppository be inserted with the blunt end or the pointed end first, or does it not matter?

The rectal mucosa has a rich blood and lymph supply that aids systemic absorption. Suppositories are medicated solid preparations primarily for insertion into the rectum. They may be used for both local and systemic effect.

This route of drug delivery is relatively painless and particularly useful for patients who are fasting or nil-by-mouth before or after surgery or who are unable to tolerate oral medication due to nausea and/or vomiting. It is also useful for children who have needle phobia and require medication.

Suppositories for local effect are useful in the management of chronic constipation, in bowel preparation prior to bowel investigations and for the treatment of itching and pain caused by haemorrhoids.

Suppositories are manufactured in a torpedo shape with a pointed end (apex) and a blunt end (see picture above). The blunt end is often concave, forming a useful indentation for the fingertip to push against.

Historically suppositories were inserted pointed end first but the publication of one study (Abd-El-Maeboud et al, 1991) changed nursing practice overnight. The authors suggested retention is more easily achieved if suppositories are inserted blunt end first because the squeezing action of the anal sphincter against the apex pushes (sucks) them into the rectum.

Since the authors made no particular reference to clinical need, arguably the study can be interpreted to include suppositories for either a systemic or local action or both.

However, there has been a lack of critical appraisal of this research, which has never been replicated and has the limitations inherent with any small study. The research analysis used simple descriptive statistics, which further brings into question the validity and robustness of the research and the conclusions drawn.

The lack of critical appraisal is in itself disconcerting as publication of the research had a cascading effect on nursing practice. Articles (Moppett, 2000) and textbooks on practical procedures (Mallett and Dougherty, 2005; Baillie, 2001) all support the view that suppositories should be inserted blunt end first, citing Abd-El-Maeboud et al (1991).

Does it matter?

If a suppository is for the management of chronic constipation, it must be placed against the bowel wall so the way it is inserted does seem to matter. Insertion is usually required because the patient is experiencing extreme discomfort from constipation. An incorrect insertion will subject the patient to an undignified and invasive procedure that is also ineffective.

Suppositories need body heat in order to dissolve and become effective – placed in the middle of faecal matter they will remain intact. If a suppository is inserted blunt end first using the anal sphincter to assist with insertion there is no guarantee it will come into contact with the bowel wall. However, if it is inserted apex end first the fingertip is able to guide and place the suppository against the bowel wall.

Patients self-administering suppositories may find the blunt end more acceptable as, owing to the sucking action, there is no need to insert the finger into the anal canal (Abd-El-Maeboud et al, 1991). This lends weight to inserting the blunt end first – especially if the suppository is for a systemic effect, as rectal absorption is more effective lower in the rectum as veins draining from this part of the rectum join the internal iliac veins. This means medication returns directly to the inferior cava, bypassing the portal circulation (Waugh and Grant, 2007).

Conclusion

In the absence of conclusive evidence to recommend one particular method of suppository insertion, it seems that a common-sense approach is required (Bradshaw and Price, 2006).

Although the idea that a patient might receive clinical care that is not based on best practice is unacceptable, recommendations on suppository insertion in nursing textbooks and articles were radically changed following suggestions made in one small research trial. There is an ambiguity as to what constitutes ‘best evidence-based practice’ in the administration of suppositories. If their insertion pointed or blunt end first really does matter then arguably more extensive research is urgently required.

Author

Gaye Kyle, MA, DipEd, BA, RGN, is honorary lecturer, Thames Valley University, London, and recognised teacher at University of Ulster.

Abd-El-Maeboud, K.H. et al (1991) Rectal suppository: commonsense and mode of insertion. The Lancet; 338: 8770, 798-803.

Baillie, L. (ed) (2001) Developing Practical Nursing Skills. London: Hodder Arnold Headline Group.

Bradshaw, A., Price, L. (2006) Rectal suppository insertion: the reliability of the evidence as a basis for nursing practice. Journal of Community Nursing; 16: 1, 98-103.

Mallett, J., Dougherty, L. (2005) Bowel care. In: Mallett, J. Dougherty, L. (eds) Royal Marsden Hospital Manual of

Clinical Nursing Procedures (6th ed). London: Blackwell.

Moppett, S. (2000) Which way is up for a suppository? Nursing Times; 96: 26, 196-197.

Waugh, A., Grant, A. (2007) Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness (10th ed). London: Elsevier.

Dulcolax 5 mg Suppositories – Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

What is a Patient Information Leaflet and why is it useful?

The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is the leaflet included in the pack with a medicine. It is written for patients and gives information about taking or using a medicine. It is possible that the leaflet in your medicine pack may differ from this version because it may have been updated since your medicine was packaged.

Dulcolax^® 5 mg Suppositories & Dulcolax^® 10 mg Suppositories

bisacodyl

• Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
• If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as yours.

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

1. What Dulcolax Suppositories is and what it is used for

2. What you need to know before you use Dulcolax Suppositories

3. How to use Dulcolax Suppositories

4. Possible side effects

5. How to store Dulcolax Suppositories

6. Contents of the pack and other information

Dulcolax Suppositories contain a medicine called bisacodyl. This belongs to a group of medicines called laxatives.

• Dulcolax Suppositories are used to treat constipation
• Dulcolax Suppositories are also used to clear the bowel before surgery, X-rays or other tests
• Dulcolax Suppositories stimulate the muscles of the bowel (large intestine). They have a laxative effect usually within 10 to 30 minutes
• This medicine does not help with weight loss

Normal and regular bowel movement is important for most people. However, what is “normal and regular” varies from person to person. Some may have a bowel movement every day, others less often. Whatever it is like for you, it is best that your bowel movement has a regular pattern.

• Constipation is an occasional problem for some people; for others, it may happen more often
• It happens when the normal muscle actions in the bowel (large intestine) slow down. This can mean that the material is not easily eliminated from the body

The cause of constipation is often not known.

It can be associated with:

• Sudden change of diet
• A diet with not enough fibre
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Loss of ‘tone’ of the bowel muscles in older people
• Pregnancy
• Medicines such as morphine or codeine
• Having to stay in bed for a long time
• Lack of exercise

Whatever the cause, constipation is uncomfortable. It may make you feel bloated and heavy, or generally “off colour”. Sometimes it causes headaches.

These healthy tips are recommended to try and prevent constipation happening:

• Eat a balanced diet including fresh fruit and vegetables
• Drink enough water so that you do not become dehydrated
• Keep up your exercise and stay fit
• Make time to empty your bowels when your body tells you

• You are allergic (hypersensitive) to bisacodyl or hard fat
• You have severe dehydration
• You have a bowel condition called “ileus” (blockage in the intestine)
• You have a serious abdominal condition such as appendicitis
• You have severe abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting
• You have a blocked bowel (intestinal obstruction)
• You have inflammation of the bowel (small or large intestine)
• You have cracking of the skin around your back passage (anal fissures)
• You have inflammation or ulcers around your back passage (ulcerative proctitis)

Do not use Dulcolax Suppositories if any of the above applies to you. If you are not sure, talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using this medicine.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. This is because Dulcolax Suppositories can affect the way some other medicines work. Also, some other medicines can affect the way Dulcolax Suppositories work.

• Water tablets (diuretics) such as bendrofluazide or furosemide (frusemide)
• Steroid medicines such as prednisolone.
• Other laxative medicines.

If you are not sure if any of the above applies to you, talk to your pharmacist or doctor using taking Dulcolax Suppositories.

Talk to you pharmacist or doctor before using Dulcolax Suppositories if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast feeding.

Some people may feel dizzy or faint while taking this medicine. If this happens to you, wait until these feelings go away before driving or using machines.

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Otherwise, follow the instructions below. If you do not understand the instructions, or if you are not sure, ask your pharmacist or doctor.

As with all laxatives, Dulcolax Suppositories should not be used every day for more than 5 days. If you need laxatives every day, or if you have abdominal pain which does not go away, you should see your doctor.

The suppositories should only be used in your back passage.

1. Take off the foil wrapping

2. Lie on one side and pull your knees up towards your chest. Keep one leg drawn up more than the other

3. Use your first finger (index finger) or middle finger to push in the suppository

4. Gently push the suppository as far as possible into your back passage, pointed end first

5. Once it is as far as it will go, push it side-ways to make sure it touches the wall of the bowel

6. Lower your legs to a comfortable position whilst the suppository is retained in place

7. Keep the suppository inside you for at least 30 minutes

• You may not have put it in high enough. Push it in as far as possible
• Try to keep it in for 30 minutes, even if you feel like you urgently need to go to the toilet. This is how long it takes to work

For constipation

Adults and children over 10 years

• Put one 10 mg suppository into the back passage for immediate effect. Only use one suppository per day

Children under 10 years

• Put one 5 mg suppository into the back passage for immediate effect. Only use one suppository per day

For bowel clearance before surgery, X-rays or other tests

In hospitals, when patients are being prepared for surgery, X-rays or other tests, Dulcolax Suppositories and Dulcolax Tablets are both used. This helps to get complete bowel clearance.

Adults and children over 10 years

• Take two tablets in the morning and two tablets in the evening and use one 10 mg suppository on the following morning

Children 4 -10 years

• Give one tablet in the evening and one 5 mg suppository (Dulcolax 5 mg Suppositories) on the following morning

Length of treatment

These suppositories should not be used every day for more than 5 days. If you need laxatives every day, then you should see your doctor to find the cause of your constipation. Overuse can be harmful.

It may be harmful to

• Use too many Dulcolax Suppositories or
• Use Dulcolax Suppositories for too long

This is because using too many for too long may lead to:

• Imbalance of fluid and salts in the body. This can affect the tightness of muscles such as those in the bowel. It can also affect the salts in the blood.
• Low levels of potassium in the blood (called ‘hypokalaemia’). This can make you tired, dizzy, make your muscles weak and cause an uneven heart-beat.
• Dehydration, making you thirsty, feel faint and giving you headaches. It can also mean you cannot pass enough urine.

If you use more of this medicine than you should, talk to a doctor or go to a hospital straight away. Take the medicine pack with you; this is so the doctor knows what you have taken.

If you have any questions on the use of this product, ask your pharmacist or doctor.

Like all medicines, Dulcolax Suppositories can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you experience any of the following side effects, please stop taking the medicines and see your doctor straight away:

Rare side effects (affect less than 1 in 1000 people)

• Severe allergic reactions which may cause swelling of the face or throat and difficulty in breathing or dizziness. If you have a severe allergic reaction, stop taking this medicine and see a doctor straight away.
• Colitis (inflammation of the large intestine which causes abdominal pain and diarrhoea)
• Dehydration
• Allergic reactions which may cause a skin rash
• Fainting

Uncommon side effects (affect less than 1 in 100 people)

• Blood in the stools
• Vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort
• Discomfort inside and around the back passage
• Dizziness

Common side effects (affect less than 1 in 10 people)

• Abdominal cramps or pain
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme, website: 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.

• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use Dulcolax Suppositories after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and blister after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
• Do not store above 25°C
• Keep the blister within the outer carton to protect from light
• Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

• Dulcolax 10 mg Suppositories contain 10 mg of the active ingredient bisacodyl
• Dulcolax 5 mg Suppositories contain 5 mg of the active ingredient bisacodyl
• Both the suppositories are made from hard fat, which is an ingredient needed to mould the suppository into the correct shape

• The suppositories are white and torpedo shaped.
• Dulcolax 10 mg Suppositories are available in packs of 6, 10, 12, 20, 50 and 200. Dulcolax 5 mg Suppositories are available in packs of 5, 6, 48 and 50. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Sanofi
410 Thames Valley Park Drive
Reading
Berkshire
RG6 1PT
United Kingdom

Tel: 0800 035 2525

Istituto De Angeli S.r.I.
Località Prulli n. 103/c
50066 Reggello (FI)
Italy

This leaflet was revised in September 2020.

® Registered trade mark

439186/GB/2

Fecal Impaction (Child)

A normal stool is soft and easy to pass. But sometimes stools become firm or hard. They are difficult to pass. They may pass less often. This is called constipation. It is common in children.

If a child is constipated, stool can harden in the rectum. New stool will keeping forming in the colon but can’t pass the blockage. This is called fecal impaction. Fecal impaction can cause symptoms like:

• Inability to pass stool

• Passing only pea-sized stool

• Uncontrolled watery diarrhea (if the bowel is not completely blocked)

• Swollen and painful abdomen

• Refusal to eat

• Problems holding in urine

• Painful bowel movements

• Postures or behavior that show discomfort

• Stool in child’s underwear

• Bloating

• Vomiting

• Painful bowel movements

• Itching, swelling, bleeding, or pain around the anus

Fecal impaction from constipation can have many causes, such as:

• Eating a diet low in fiber

• Eating too many dairy foods or processed foods

• Not drinking enough liquids

• Lack of exercise or physical activity

• Stress or changes in routine

• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement or delaying bowel movements

• Medicines like prescription pain medicine, iron, antacids, certain antidepressants, and calcium supplements

• Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea

• Underlying illness

Fecal impaction can also be caused by a child holding in stool on purpose. This may be out of fear of pain with their bowel movement. Some children hold in stool to avoid using public or school restrooms.

Home care

Your child’s healthcare provider may prescribe a stool softener. This will help your child have a bowel movement. In some cases, other methods may be advised to loosen hard stool. These may include a glycerin suppository or laxatives. You may need to use an enema or irrigation to loosen hard stool, which is then removed. Follow all instructions on how and when to use these products. It is no longer thought that laxatives can cause damage to the intestine. However, some are better choices for occasional and long-term use. Your healthcare provider will help with the decision on whether laxatives are necessary.

Food, drink, and habit changes

You can help treat and prevent your child’s constipation with some simple changes in diet and habits.

Make changes in your child’s diet, such as:

• Replace cow’s milk with a nondairy milk or formula made from soy or rice. Discuss any change with your provider first.

• Increase fiber in your child’s diet. You can do this by adding fruits, vegetables, cereals, and grains.

• Some fruit juices, like pear and prune, can also be helpful.

• Make sure your child eats less meat and processed foods.

• Make sure your child drinks more water.

• Be patient and make diet changes over time. Most children can be fussy about food.

• If you are unsure about your child’s intake, try keeping a diary for a few days of everything he or she eats and drinks. This can help your healthcare provider determine if your child’s diet may be causing the constipation.

Help your child have good toilet habits. Make sure to:

• Teach your child not wait to have a bowel movement.

• Have your child sit on the toilet for 10 minutes at the same time each day. This helps to create a routine. Doing this after each meal can be very helpful. This helps create a routine and uses the body’s natural tendency to move the bowels after meals.

• Give your child a comfortable child’s toilet seat and a footstool.

• Talk with your child’s school. Ask them to allow your child use the restroom on a regular basis. If your child is not able to use a public bathroom, ask if the school may allow your child to use a private bathroom, if available.

• Read a book or keep your child company, if that helps.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your child’s healthcare provider. If X-rays were done, you will be told of your child’s results.

Special note to parents

Learn to be familiar with your child’s normal bowel pattern. Note the color, form, and frequency of stools.

Call 911

Call 911 if your child has any of these symptoms:

When to seek medical advice

Call your child’s healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• Abdominal pain or swelling that gets worse

• Fussiness or crying that can’t be soothed

• Refusal to drink or eat

• Blood in stool

• Black, tarry stool

• Constipation that doesn’t get better

• Weight loss

• Vomiting

• Fever (see Fever and children)

Fever and children

Always use a digital thermometer to check your child’s temperature. Never use a mercury thermometer.

For infants and toddlers, be sure to use a rectal thermometer correctly. A rectal thermometer may accidentally poke a hole in (perforate) the rectum. It may also pass on germs from the stool. Always follow the product maker’s directions for proper use. If you don’t feel comfortable taking a rectal temperature, use another method. When you talk to your child’s healthcare provider, tell him or her which method you used to take your child’s temperature.

Here are guidelines for fever temperature. Ear temperatures aren’t accurate before 6 months of age. Don’t take an oral temperature until your child is at least 4 years old.

Infant under 3 months old:

• Ask your child’s healthcare provider how you should take the temperature.

• Rectal or forehead (temporal artery) temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by the provider

• Armpit temperature of 99°F (37.2°C) or higher, or as directed by the provider

Child age 3 to 36 months:

• Rectal, forehead (temporal artery), or ear temperature of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher, or as directed by the provider

• Armpit temperature of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, or as directed by the provider

Child of any age:

• Repeated temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, or as directed by the provider

• Fever that lasts more than 24 hours in a child under 2 years old. Or a fever that lasts for 3 days in a child 2 years or older.

Differences, similarities, and which is better for you

Drug overview & main differences | Conditions treated | Efficacy | Insurance coverage and cost comparison | Side effects | Drug interactions | Warnings | FAQ

If you struggle with hard stools, stools that are difficult to pass, and/or have less than three bowel movements per week, it is likely you are dealing with constipation. Constipation is a very common problem in the United States, affecting 16 out of 100 adults, and 33 out of 100 adults aged 60 and older.

Dulcolax and Miralax are two popular, FDA approved over-the-counter laxatives used to treat occasional constipation and irregularity. Dulcolax contains bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative. It works by increasing the activity of the intestines to cause a bowel movement.

Miralax contains polyethylene glycol 3350, an osmotic laxative. It works by attracting water in the colon, which softens stools and makes them easier to pass. Both medications are known as laxatives and help treat constipation. However, they do have some differences. Continue reading to learn more about Dulcolax and Miralax.

What are the main differences between Dulcolax and Miralax?

Dulcolax (Dulcolax coupons | Dulcolax details) is a stimulant laxative available in brand and generic, and in tablet and rectal suppository form, containing the ingredient bisacodyl. Dulcolax as a brand name is also available in various other formulations, which do not contain bisacodyl, such as liquid and soft chews (which contain magnesium) and a stool softener (which contains docusate sodium). For the purpose of this review, we will focus on Dulcolax, which contains bisacodyl.

Miralax (Miralax coupons | Miralax details) s an osmotic laxative containing the ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350. It is available in brand and generic, in powder and powder packet form. You may also see Gavilax, which is the same as Miralax.

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Conditions treated by Dulcolax and Miralax

Dulcolax tablets and suppositories are used for the temporary relief of occasional constipation and irregularity. The tablets produce a bowel movement in six to 12 hours, and the suppositories work quicker, producing a bowel movement in 15-60 minutes.

Miralax is also indicated for the relief of occasional constipation and irregularity and produces a bowel movement in one to three days.

Dulcolax or Miralax are often used in bowel preparation for a procedure, such as a colonoscopy. When you are preparing for a procedure, your surgeon will give you a list of foods and drinks (such as Gatorade) you can consume on a clear liquid diet, along with a bowel prep procedure.

Is Dulcolax or Miralax more effective?

Studies have not compared the two drugs head to head for the treatment of occasional constipation. Therefore, when deciding which medication to try, you can look at a few factors. First, you will want to think about how fast you want to go to the bathroom. Are you very uncomfortable and want to go as quickly as possible? Or would you prefer more gentle, overnight relief? Considering this factor, Dulcolax tablets will work in about six to 12 hours, while the suppositories will work more quickly, within an hour.

Miralax can take one to three days to produce a bowel movement. You’ll also want to consider the type of medication. Do you prefer a tablet, a powder mixed into a liquid, or a suppository? If you have a strong preference for the type of medication you can tolerate, that may factor in as well. Also, it may take a bit of trial and error to find if Dulcolax or Miralax works better for you.

It is always a good idea to discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider. He or she is most qualified to help you decide which treatment to try, taking into account your medical history and conditions, as well as any medications you take that could interact with Dulcolax or Miralax.

Coverage and cost comparison of Dulcolax vs. Miralax

Because they are over-the-counter, Dulcolax and Miralax are usually not covered by insurance or Medicare Part D. Some exceptions may apply, for example, a state Medicaid plan. Also, you may be able to use your health savings credit card to pay for these OTC medications.

The typical out-of-pocket price for a box of generic Dulcolax tablets is about $8, and a box of suppositories is also about $8. The out-of-pocket price for a bottle of generic Miralax is about $23.

You can save money on Dulcolax (tablets or suppositories) or Miralax with a SingleCare card. (Note—although both drugs are OTC, a prescription is needed for coverage through SingleCare. Simply follow the steps here.)

Get the SingleCare discount card

Common side effects of Dulcolax vs. Miralax

The most common side effects of Dulcolax include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. If you use the suppository form, you may feel local rectal irritation. Serious side effects may include electrolyte imbalance (symptoms may include decreased urine, fatigue/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, and/or confusion) or loss of colon function, after taking Dulcolax for too long. If you are still constipated after using Dulcolax for seven days, consult your healthcare provider. Consult your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of these serious side effects.

The most common side effects of Miralax include nausea, stomach cramping, and gas. Serious side effects may include excessive bowel movements, persistent diarrhea, severe stomach pain, bloody stools, or rectal bleeding. Consult your healthcare provider right away if you experience any serious side effects.

With either drug, rare but serious allergic reactions may occur. If you experience itching/swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Drug interactions of Dulcolax vs. Miralax

Dulcolax should not be taken within one hour of antacids like Tums or Rolaids, or proton pump inhibitors, because the combination could increase the risk of stomach cramps and other side effects. Dulcolax should not be taken with other stimulant laxatives because the combination could increase the risk of ulcers or colitis.

Miralax should not be taken with Linzess because the combination can increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities. Miralax also should not be taken with Trintellix or Fetzima because the combination may increase the risk of SIADH or low sodium.

This is not a full list of drug interactions. Other drug interactions may occur. Consult your healthcare provider for a full list of drug interactions.

Warnings of Dulcolax and Miralax

It is always a good idea to consult with a doctor of gastroenterology (gastroenterologist) if you experience bowel problems, especially if they are frequent or chronic. The gastroenterologist can do a full workup and evaluation, to determine if you have any underlying conditions causing your constipation that need to be treated.

Warnings of Dulcolax:

• Ask your healthcare provider before using if you are experiencing stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 14 days.
• Dulcolax may cause stomach discomfort, faintness, rectal burning, and mild cramping.
• Stop using Dulcolax and consult your healthcare provider if you have rectal bleeding or no bowel movement after using Dulcolax. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also, consult your healthcare provider if you have chronic constipation or need to use a laxative for more than seven days.
• Suppositories are for rectal use only.
• If you are taking the tablets, do not chew or crush. Do not take within one hour of antacids or milk.

Warnings of Miralax:

• Do not use if you are allergic to polyethylene glycol.
• Consult your healthcare provider before using if you have kidney disease.
• Consult your healthcare provider before using if you have nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 14 days, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• When using Miralax, you may have loose or watery stools or more frequent stools.
• Stop using Miralax and consult your healthcare provider if you have rectal bleeding, or worsened symptoms of nausea, bloating, cramping, or stomach pain. This could indicate a more serious condition. Also, stop using Miralax and consult your healthcare provider if you get diarrhea, or if you need to use a laxative for more than seven days.

Warnings of both Dulcolax and Miralax:

• Consult your healthcare provider before using if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Prolonged use of laxatives can lead to electrolyte imbalance, which can be very dangerous. Consult your healthcare provider if your constipation continues for more than seven days.

Frequently asked questions about Dulcolax vs. Miralax

What is Dulcolax?

Dulcolax is an OTC medication that contains bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative. It is available in brand and generic and in tablet or suppository form. The suppository works quickly, producing a bowel movement within 15-60 minutes, and the tablets take about six to twelve hours to work.

What is Miralax?

Miralax is an OTC medication that contains polyethylene glycol 3350, an osmotic laxative. It is available in brand and generic in powder form. Miralax should produce a bowel movement within one to three days.

Are Dulcolax and Miralax the same?

Both medications are laxatives, but are different types of laxatives and work in different ways. See above for more information about Dulcolax and Miralax. There are also other types of laxatives, compared in the chart below.

Is Dulcolax or Miralax better?

The two drugs have not been compared in clinical trials. You may want to consider the type of medication you prefer (tablet, suppository, or powder mixed into a liquid) as well as how fast you would like to go to the bathroom. For example, if you’re uncomfortable and want to go to the bathroom fast, and don’t mind inserting a rectal suppository, a Dulcolax suppository will have you in the bathroom within the hour.

Can I use Dulcolax or Miralax while pregnant?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative.

Can I use Dulcolax or Miralax with alcohol?

Alcohol may worsen constipation. If you are experiencing constipation, you should avoid alcohol. Also, alcohol can worsen the side effects of laxatives, such as bloating, nausea, stomach pain, and/or dehydration.

What is stronger than Miralax?

See the laxative chart above. There are several other laxatives that can work quicker than Miralax if you need something to work quickly.

What is the best fast-acting laxative?

A Fleet Saline Enema can produce a bowel movement as quickly as one to five minute(s). A Dulcolax suppository can produce a bowel movement in 15-60 minutes. A saline laxative, such as magnesium citrate, can produce a bowel movement in a half hour to 6 hours. Depending on your preference (enema, suppository, or liquid) and your level of discomfort, you can choose one of these, and it should work very quickly.

Can you take Miralax every day?

Miralax can be taken occasionally to treat constipation, but should not be used for more than seven days. If you have been using Miralax for seven days, and feel like you need to keep using it, consult your healthcare provider for guidance. You may want to see a stomach specialist called a gastroenterologist, who can do a full workup, including performing tests/bloodwork, making suggestions on increasing dietary fiber, and evaluating the medications you take to see if any of them could be causing your constipation.

90,000 Use of suppositories for pain relief and treatment of hemorrhoids

The use of suppositories for pain relief and treatment of hemorrhoids

26.09.2017

Suppositories for hemorrhoids are an effective treatment for the disease. The combination of various active ingredients allows you to eliminate the symptoms of the disease.

Today there are many effective treatments for hemorrhoids. Symptoms can often be alleviated with over-the-counter drugs and lifestyle changes. One of the most popular remedies are suppositories, or rectal suppositories “from hemorrhoids.” Such candles have different effects and are used for specific purposes. Doctors do not recommend using several drugs for the treatment of hemorrhoids on their own at the same time. Also, you should not use drugs containing glucocorticosteroids uncontrollably for more than 5-7 days.Be sure to tell your doctor if your symptoms worsen with their use, for example, itching intensifies.

Advantages and disadvantages of candles

Rectal suppositories are intended to be inserted into the rectum. They contain an active ingredient and various auxiliary components. Candles soften and melt from the temperature of the human body, ensuring the supply of the active substance, and at room temperature they retain their shape.

Holding candles does not require outside help and special medical education, is a non-invasive method of treatment, does not cause nausea and vomiting, and in most cases does not cause unpleasant sensations.Thanks to these advantages, rectal suppositories have gained their popularity and are considered an effective remedy for hemorrhoids.

Like any other dosage form, suppositories have disadvantages. First, they require storage at a low temperature, often in a refrigerator. Secondly, it is not always convenient to use candles. Thirdly, some components of candles cannot be stored for a long time, therefore it is not recommended to buy candles for hemorrhoids for future use. Remember, candles cannot be used if they are cracked or damaged, color or smell changed.

Effects of rectal suppositories

Anesthesia

Reduce pain due to analgesic components (novocaine, lidocaine, etc.). Anesthetic suppositories for hemorrhoids are prescribed for acute pain.

Reduction of blood clots

Achieved by anticoagulants that block blood coagulation mechanisms.Blood after taking such suppositories ceases to clot normally, so patients with a tendency to bleeding are advised to first consult a doctor.

Anti-inflammatory effect

It is possible to relieve inflammation with the help of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, diclofenac), as well as hormonal drugs (drugs containing glucocorticosteroids).Natural substances are also widely used (sea buckthorn oil, propolis).

Stop bleeding

In this case, drugs are used that are opposite in action to anticoagulants. That is, they activate the process of blood coagulation, stop bleeding, but at the same time they can lead to the formation of blood clots if used uncontrolled.

Strengthening veins

Achieved by increasing their tone, strengthening the wall, increasing elasticity.

In order to increase the effectiveness of suppositories from hemorrhoids and to ensure ease of use, several active ingredients are sometimes included in their composition. For example, suppositories with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hemostatic effects are popular.

Application features

When using suppositories, it is necessary to take into account their peculiarities and observe some rules:

• Carefully study the instructions for use, pay attention to storage conditions.
• Do not hold the candle in your hands for a long time, as it may start to melt.
• If suppositories are used once a day, they are best applied at night. If twice, then in the morning and in the evening.
• It is necessary to insert the candle with clean hands in a lying position on its side, after emptying the intestines and performing hygiene procedures.

A comprehensive plan is drawn up individually for each patient, taking into account his age, gender, the presence and absence of concomitant pathology and the individual characteristics of the organism.

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90,000 Treatment of fecal incontinence and constipation in adults with central nervous system disorders

Individuals with a central nervous system disorder or injury are much more at risk of losing bowel control and the risk of developing severe constipation than other people.This is called neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NDD). It is very difficult to treat constipation without causing fecal incontinence, or to prevent fecal incontinence without causing constipation. These people always have to spend much more time emptying their bowels. These gut problems cause anxiety and stress and can reduce the quality of life for people with these problems. This review of NIR studies may be of interest to people with any central nervous system damage caused by disease or trauma, as well as people with perinatal central nervous system damage that has a long-term effect on their bowel function.

Despite the fact that a lot of information has been accumulated about the causes of NIR, a rather small number of studies are devoted to the practical aspects of solving this problem. Currently, the main advice in such cases is to consume enough fluids, a balanced diet, as well as exercise and regular routine bowel movements. Routine bowel movements may include the use of oral medications, suppository laxatives, or enemas; abdominal massage; digital rectal stimulation and digital fecal evacuation.The actions will depend on the needs of each individual, and trial and error will usually lead to a suitable program.

Only those studies in which participants were assigned either to a control group (those who did not undergo the intervention and those who received conventional treatment) or to a random treatment group (what is called randomization) were included in this review. as these studies provide the most reliable evidence. Fifteen new studies have been added in this review update.Five studies were removed because the reported drugs (cisapride and tegaserod) were withdrawn from the market and are no longer available. Most of the 20 randomized trials in this review included very small numbers of participants, and the study reports did not always provide the information needed to validate the results of these studies.

Several oral laxatives have been shown to improve bowel function, including bulk laxatives (psyllium, one study) and isoosmotic macrogol (one study), which have been studied in patients with Parkinson’s disease.Some suppositories and microclysters used to help the bowel open provided faster results than others (three studies), and the timing of suppository use may influence bowel response (one study). Finger stool evacuation may be more effective than oral or rectal medication (one study). The use of transanal irrigation in people with spinal cord injury improved bowel control, reduced constipation, and improved quality of life (one study).Three studies showed that abdominal massage was beneficial in relieving constipation. One study has shown that patients can benefit from even one training session led by a nurse.

This review shows that there is still very little research on this common problem that is so important to patients. The research evidence found in this review is generally of very low quality, as the way the studies are conducted and the reports on them do not qualify the results to be reliable.It is not possible to make recommendations for care based on these studies. The treatment of NIR will continue to be based on trial and error until more high-quality, high-quality research is conducted that investigates the most important aspects of the problem.

29 reviews, instructions for use

Posterisan is an immunostimulating drug for local treatment of diseases of the anorectal region. The basis of posterisan is inactivated E. coli bacteria, their metabolic products and metabolites.All this bacterial mass acts as an antigen – a substance perceived by the body as foreign and, for this reason, inspiring the latter to mobilize all its immune resources. It is produced in the form of an ointment for rectal and external use and rectal suppositories. When posterisan is applied locally to the skin and mucous membranes, it penetrates into the inflamed tissue and acts as a kind of “inoculation” that activates the body’s own defenses at the site of inflammation. As a result of contact with the drug, T-lymphocytes are activated, which begin to intensively produce cytokines, which in turn have a stimulating effect on macrophages and granulocytes.The latter, with a remarkable appetite, begin to absorb the fragments of cells, whose unwanted presence caused the inflammatory reaction. Thanks to posterisan, the production of secretory immunoglobulins is stimulated, which begin to bind and neutralize antigens. Cytokines perform another important function in this case: they activate the process of collagen synthesis, which takes an active part in the regeneration of tissues damaged by inflammation. In addition to this, it should be noted that posterisan reduces vascular exudation, normalizes the tone and permeability of the walls of blood vessels, and also increases the local resistance of tissues to the effects of pathogenic bacteria.

Posterisan ointment is applied in a thin even layer to the affected area of ​​the skin or mucous membranes several times a day: in the morning and in the evening, as well as after each bowel movement. If you need a deep injection of the ointment, you can use the screw-on plastic applicator included in the package. To do this, it should be put on a tube of ointment, and then inserted into the rectum.

After use, rinse and dry the applicator. Posterisan in the form of rectal suppositories is used with the same frequency as the ointment – in the morning and evening, as well as after each visit to the toilet “in a big way.”One suppository is used in each case. After being introduced into the rectum under the influence of body temperature, it gradually melts, which ensures a continuous and uniform release of the active substance directly in the focus of inflammation. It is no secret that the skin of the anorectal region is particularly sensitive, and therefore the suppository is injected gently and without effort and sudden movements. It may seem insignificant, but it is recommended to cut your fingernails to avoid damage to the skin.The introduction of suppositories should be carried out after a bowel movement. Immediately after this exciting moment, it is necessary to spend some time in a horizontal position so that the suppository mass can dissolve and release all its “ammunition” outside. Facilitating one’s fate by involving various lubricants or creams in the process is highly discouraged: in this way, the absorption characteristics of the active substance can be changed not for the better. The only thing that can be done to improve the sliding of the suppository is to hold it in your hand or warm it in warm water.It is not at all necessary to inject the suppository “all the way”: the criterion for the optimal depth of penetration into the rectum is the ability to feel it with the tip of a finger. In this matter, it is important to observe the “golden mean”, tk. if the injection is not deep enough, the suppository will not reach the hemorrhoids.