How long does it take for a suppository to work. What are the common uses of adult rectal suppositories. What side effects can occur when using suppositories. How should suppositories be properly administered.

Understanding Rectal Suppositories: Uses and Effectiveness

Rectal suppositories are a common form of medication used primarily to relieve occasional constipation. They belong to a class of drugs known as hyperosmotic laxatives, which work by drawing water into the intestines. This action typically results in a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes after administration.

The effectiveness of suppositories can vary depending on individual factors and the specific product used. Glycerin suppositories, for instance, are widely used due to their rapid action and relatively mild side effects.

Normal Bowel Movement Frequency

It’s important to understand what constitutes normal bowel movement frequency before considering the use of suppositories:

• Adults: Once daily to 1-2 times weekly
• Preschool-aged children: Once daily to once every other day

Deviations from these patterns may indicate constipation, but it’s crucial to remember that individual variations are normal and not necessarily a cause for concern.

Proper Administration of Rectal Suppositories

Correct administration of suppositories is crucial for their effectiveness and to minimize potential discomfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use.
2. If the suppository is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing the foil wrapper.
3. Remove the foil wrapper if present.
4. If desired, moisten the suppository with lukewarm water (avoid using petroleum jelly or mineral oil as this may reduce effectiveness).
5. Lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent.
6. Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first, using your finger.
7. Stay in this position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible, or until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

For children, the process is similar, but they should lie on their side with the lower leg straightened and the upper leg bent towards the stomach. After insertion, hold the child’s buttocks together for a few seconds to prevent the suppository from coming out.

How Quickly Do Suppositories Work?

The time it takes for a suppository to work can vary, but generally, you can expect results within 15 to 60 minutes after insertion. This rapid action is one of the key advantages of using suppositories for constipation relief.

It’s important to note that the suppository doesn’t need to melt completely to produce an effect. The body’s natural heat and moisture will cause it to dissolve and release the active ingredients.

Factors Affecting Suppository Efficacy

Several factors can influence how quickly and effectively a suppository works:

• Individual physiology
• Severity of constipation
• Type and strength of the suppository
• Proper insertion technique
• Staying in the correct position after insertion

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe when used as directed, suppositories can cause some side effects. Common ones include:

• Rectal irritation or burning
• Abdominal discomfort or cramps
• Small amounts of mucus in the stool

More serious side effects, though rare, can occur. These may include severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, or rectal bleeding. If you experience any of these, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

Precautions and Warnings

Before using glycerin suppositories, consider the following precautions:

• Inform your doctor about any allergies or medical conditions you have.
• Disclose your full medical history, especially regarding rectal bleeding, intestinal blockage, or other bowel problems.
• Avoid overuse, as this can lead to laxative dependence and loss of normal bowel function.
• Consult a healthcare professional if you don’t have a bowel movement after using the product or if you suspect a serious medical problem.

Alternative Methods for Constipation Relief

While suppositories can be effective for occasional constipation, they should not be relied upon as a long-term solution. There are several lifestyle changes and natural remedies that can help prevent and alleviate constipation:

• Increase fluid intake, especially water
• Consume a diet high in fiber
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Establish a consistent bathroom routine
• Consider natural laxatives like prunes or psyllium husk

These methods can help maintain regular bowel movements and reduce the need for suppositories or other laxatives.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While occasional constipation is common, there are situations where it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional:

• Persistent constipation lasting more than a week
• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Constipation accompanied by fever or vomiting

These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Suppositories vs. Other Laxative Options

Suppositories are just one of many options available for treating constipation. How do they compare to other laxatives? Let’s explore some alternatives:

Oral Laxatives

Oral laxatives come in various forms, including pills, powders, and liquids. They can be divided into several categories:

• Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium)
• Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol)
• Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)
• Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)

Compared to suppositories, oral laxatives typically take longer to work, often 12-72 hours, but may be more convenient for some users.

Enemas

Enemas involve introducing liquid directly into the rectum to stimulate bowel movements. They typically work faster than oral laxatives but slower than suppositories, usually within 1-5 minutes. However, they can be more invasive and may cause more discomfort than suppositories.

Choosing the Right Option

The choice between suppositories, oral laxatives, and enemas depends on various factors, including:

• Severity of constipation
• Individual preferences
• Speed of relief needed
• Underlying health conditions
• Potential side effects

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

Special Considerations for Different Age Groups

The use of suppositories and their effectiveness can vary across different age groups. Let’s examine some specific considerations:

Children

For children, the use of suppositories should be approached with caution:

• Always consult a pediatrician before using suppositories in children
• Use age-appropriate formulations and dosages
• Consider alternative methods like dietary changes or mild oral laxatives first
• Be aware that children may resist the insertion process

Elderly Individuals

Older adults may have unique considerations when using suppositories:

• Increased risk of dehydration from laxative use
• Potential interactions with multiple medications
• Mobility issues that may affect proper insertion
• Higher likelihood of underlying health conditions that could complicate treatment

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy can often lead to constipation, but the use of suppositories during pregnancy requires careful consideration:

• Always consult with an obstetrician before using any laxative
• Some types of suppositories may be safer than others during pregnancy
• Non-pharmacological methods like increased fiber and water intake should be tried first

Long-term Use and Potential Risks

While suppositories can provide quick relief for occasional constipation, long-term or frequent use can lead to potential risks:

Laxative Dependence

Regular use of laxatives, including suppositories, can lead to dependence. This occurs when the body becomes reliant on the laxative to have a bowel movement, potentially leading to:

• Loss of normal bowel function
• Weakening of intestinal muscles
• Chronic constipation when not using laxatives

Electrolyte Imbalance

Frequent use of laxatives can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance, potentially leading to:

• Dehydration
• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle weakness
• Confusion or mental changes

Rectal Damage

Improper or frequent insertion of suppositories can potentially cause:

• Rectal irritation or inflammation
• Damage to the rectal lining
• Increased risk of infections

To minimize these risks, it’s crucial to use suppositories only as directed and to address the underlying causes of constipation through lifestyle changes whenever possible.

Innovations in Suppository Technology

The field of suppository technology continues to evolve, with new developments aimed at improving efficacy, reducing side effects, and enhancing patient comfort. Some recent innovations include:

Controlled Release Formulations

These suppositories are designed to release the active ingredient gradually over time, potentially providing longer-lasting relief and reducing the frequency of use.

Biodegradable Materials

Some newer suppositories are made from materials that are more easily broken down by the body, reducing the risk of irritation and environmental impact.

Combination Therapies

Some suppositories now combine multiple active ingredients to address different aspects of constipation simultaneously, such as softening stool and stimulating bowel movements.

Improved Delivery Systems

Advancements in suppository shape and coating technology aim to make insertion easier and more comfortable, potentially increasing patient compliance.

As research continues, we can expect to see further improvements in suppository technology, potentially offering more effective and user-friendly options for constipation relief.

Frequently Asked Questions About Suppositories

To address common concerns and queries about suppositories, let’s review some frequently asked questions:

Can suppositories be used for conditions other than constipation?

Yes, suppositories are used for various medical conditions beyond constipation. They can be formulated to deliver medications for:

• Hemorrhoids
• Local pain relief
• Nausea and vomiting
• Certain types of infections

Are there different types of suppositories?

Indeed, suppositories come in various types, including:

• Glycerin suppositories (most common for constipation)
• Bisacodyl suppositories (stimulant laxatives)
• Medicated suppositories (containing various active ingredients)
• Probiotic suppositories

Can suppositories be used during menstruation?

Generally, suppositories can be used during menstruation. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you’re using tampons, as there could be an increased risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Do suppositories affect birth control?

Most suppositories do not directly interfere with hormonal birth control methods. However, if a suppository causes diarrhea, it could potentially reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Can suppositories be used while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Some types of suppositories may be safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, but it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before use. They can recommend the safest options based on individual circumstances.

How should suppositories be stored?

Most suppositories should be stored at room temperature, away from direct heat and light. Some may require refrigeration. Always check the package instructions for specific storage requirements.

Remember, while these answers provide general information, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Adult Suppositories Rectal: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This product is used to relieve occasional constipation. Glycerin belongs to a class of drugs known as hyperosmotic laxatives. It works by drawing water into the intestines. This effect usually results in a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes.For adults, the normal frequency of bowel movements varies from once daily to 1 to 2 times weekly. For preschool-aged children, the normal frequency of bowel movements varies from once daily to once every other day. Constipation is best treated by drinking plenty of fluids, eating foods high in fiber, and exercising regularly.

How to use Adult Suppositories Suppository

This product is for rectal use only. Read and follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If the suppository is too soft to insert, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing the foil wrapper.

Wash your hands before and after using this product. If the medication is wrapped in foil, remove the foil wrapper. If desired, the suppository may be moistened with lukewarm water. Do not use petroleum jelly or mineral oil. Doing so may cause the product to be less effective.

Lie on your left side with the right knee slightly bent. 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. This product does not need to melt completely to produce an effect. If you are helping a child use this product, have the child lie on their side with the lower leg straightened out and the upper leg bent toward the stomach. Using your finger, gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first. Hold the buttocks together for a few seconds. Then, have your child stay lying down for 15 to 20 minutes if possible to keep the suppository from coming out.

Do not use this product more than once daily unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

If this product is used too frequently, it may cause loss of normal bowel function and an inability to have a bowel movement without using the product (laxative dependence). If you notice symptoms of overuse, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased weight, or weakness, contact your doctor promptly.

Consult your doctor promptly if you do not have a bowel movement after using this product or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Side Effects

Rectal irritation/burning, abdominal discomfort/cramps, or small amounts of mucus in the stool may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: abdominal pain that is severe or doesn’t go away, bloody stools, rectal bleeding.

Diarrhea that doesn’t stop may result in dehydration. Contact your doctor promptly if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual decreased urination, unusual dry mouth/thirst, fast heartbeat, or dizziness/lightheadedness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using glycerin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: rectal bleeding, intestinal blockage (obstruction), other bowel problems (such as ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids), current stomach/abdominal symptoms (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, pain, cramping).

Consult your doctor before using this product if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks or if you need to use a laxative for more than 1 week. These could be symptoms of a serious medical problem.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Does Adult Suppositories Suppository interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Not applicable.

Refer to storage information on the package label. Protect from high heat. Do not store in the bathroom. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all drug products away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Next

Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.

Available coupons

Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx

Drug Survey

Have you ever purchased Adult Suppositories Suppository?

Yes, In the past 3 months

Yes, In the past 6 months

Yes, In the past year

Haven’t purchased but considering

Don’t plan to purchase

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

How do suppositories work? Uses, instructions, and pictures

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Suppositories are solid medications that enter the body through the rectum, vagina, or urethra. Rectal suppositories are the most common type of suppository.

Doctors recommend the different forms of suppositories for different medical conditions and purposes. People place some in the rectum and others in the vagina. Less commonly, a person will need to use urethral suppositories.

We give step-by-step guidance on how to use suppositories in this article.

We also provide some helpful troubleshooting tips and advice for people who need to use this type of medication.

Share on PinterestPeople use suppositories when they are unable to take drugs orally.

Suppositories are another way to deliver drugs to the body when other routes, such as oral, cannot be used.

A suppository is small and may be round, oval, or cone-shaped. A substance, such as cocoa butter or gelatin, surrounds the medication. The suppository dissolves to release the drug once inside the body.

Suppositories may treat the local area, or the medicine may travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

Why use suppositories?

Suppositories deliver many types of medication, and a person may need to use them if they:

• are having seizures and cannot take medicines by mouth
• are unable to swallow medication for any reason
• are vomiting and cannot keep pills or liquids down
• have a blockage that stops the medication moving through the digestive system

People may also take suppositories if the medication:

• tastes too bad to take by mouth
• would break down too quickly in the gut
• could be destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract

Research also suggests that taking medications through the rectum allows for a relatively constant environment for a drug to be delivered. The rate of absorption may, however, be lower than that of drugs taken by mouth.

There are three types of suppositories:

Rectal suppositories

Rectal suppositories go in the rectum or anus. They are typically an inch long and have a rounded tip.

They treat conditions, such as:

• constipation
• fever
• hemorrhoids
• mental health issues such as anxiety, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder
• nausea, including motion sickness
• pain

Vaginal suppositories

People may insert vaginal suppositories into the vagina to treat:

• bacterial or fungal infections
• vaginal dryness

Vaginal suppositories are typically oval and come with an applicator.

Urethral suppositories

Men may use a type of urethral suppository to treat erection problems in rare cases.

These suppositories are the size of a grain of rice and deliver a drug called alprostadil.

Anyone using a rectal suppository may want to refer to the following steps for guidance:

1.

Get prepared

Share on Pinterest

• 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. Dry the hands thoroughly on a clean towel or paper towel.
• Carefully remove the suppository from its wrapper.
• If it is necessary to cut the suppository, use a clean, single-edge razor blade to slice it lengthwise.
• Use a disposable glove, if desired.

2. Get ready to insert the suppository

Share on Pinterest

• Dip the tip of the suppository in water, or apply a small amount of water-based lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly that is available to buy online. A lubricant helps the suppository more easily slide into the rectum.
• Remove clothing from the lower half of the body.
• Find the correct position. Either stand up with one foot on a chair or lie down on one side with the top leg bent slightly toward the stomach. Caregivers giving the suppository to another person often find it easier if the person is lying down.

3. Insert the suppository

Share on Pinterest

• Relax the muscles of the buttocks and open the cheeks.
• Gently insert the suppository into the anus, narrow end first.
• Push it in about 1 inch for adults, or half an inch for infants.
• In older children, push the suppository in approximately half to one inch, depending on their size.

4. Relax and clean up

Share on Pinterest

• Sit or lie still for 10 minutes after inserting the suppository. Staying still allows time for the suppository to dissolve in the body. Parents may need to hold a child’s buttocks closed during this time.
• Dispose of all materials, including the suppository wrapper and any tissue paper.
• Wash the hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Try to avoid passing stool for up to 60 minutes after inserting the suppository, unless it is a laxative. Not passing stool gives the medication enough time to enter the bloodstream and start working.

Share on Pinterest

To place a suppository into the vagina, follow these tips:

1. Get prepared

• Wash hands with soap and warm water, or use a hand sanitizer if these are not available. Dry the hands well on a clean towel or paper towel.
• Unwrap the suppository, and place it in the accompanying applicator.
• Either stand with the knees bent and feet apart or lie down with the knees bent toward the chest.

2. Insert the suppository

Share on Pinterest

• Place the applicator into the vagina, as far as possible, without causing discomfort.
• Press down on the plunger to push in the suppository.
• Remove the applicator from the vagina, and dispose of it.

3. Relax and clean up

• Lie down for 10 minutes to allow the medicine to enter the body.
• Wash the hands once more with soap and warm water.

Consider using a sanitary towel for a few hours, as some of the suppository may leak out onto the underwear.

To place a suppository into the urethra try the following tips:

1. Get prepared

• Empty the bladder.
• Wash the hands with soap and warm water or use a hand sanitizer. Dry the hands thoroughly on a clean towel or paper towel.
• Remove the applicator cover.

2. Insert the suppository

• Stretch out the penis to open the urethra.
• Place the applicator into the hole at the tip.
• Push the button on the applicator and hold for 5 seconds.
• Gently move the applicator from side to side to ensure the suppository has entered the urethra.
• Remove the applicator.

3. Relax and clean up

• Massage the stretched penis firmly for 10 to 15 seconds to allow the medicine to be absorbed.
• Dispose of the applicator and any other materials.
• Wash the hands once more with soap and warm water.

Suppositories are usually safe to use. Sometimes, some of the medication may leak out. To avoid a mess, people may want to wear a sanitary towel or incontinence pad.

Some people may experience irritation around the area where they inserted the suppository. If this is severe or persists, they should see a doctor.

Occasionally, the body may not absorb the medication delivered by a suppository as well as it does oral medications.

The following tips may help people who need to use suppositories:

• Avoid exercise or vigorous movement for 60 minutes after inserting the medication.
• Do not use petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to lubricate the suppository. This stops it from melting. Only use water, or a water-based lubricant.
• Store suppositories in the refrigerator or another cool place, so they do not melt. Always follow the storage directions on the label.
• A soft suppository can be difficult to insert. Gently squeeze it to see if it is firm enough. If not, harden the wrapped suppository by holding it under a flow of cold water. Or, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
• Trim fingernails before inserting suppositories. This prevents cuts and scrapes. Alternatively, wear a latex glove.
• Some people may notice the suppository falls out. This can occur because they have not pushed it far enough into the rectum. Push the medication in about 1 inch.
• Those who struggle to use suppositories should consider asking a partner or caregiver for help.
• As with other medicines, avoid missing doses. Missed doses may reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Suppositories are helpful for people who cannot take medications by mouth.

People who have difficulty using suppositories should ask their doctor for advice. They should also talk to their doctor before using suppositories if they:

• have had recent rectal surgery, prostate surgery, or vaginal treatment
• have an irregular heartbeat

Although they may be unpleasant to use, rectal, vaginal, and urethral suppositories can be an effective way of delivering medication.

How long does it take for a suppository to work (and why)? –

Last updated: December 2, 2022 / author
Sandeep Bhandari

/ Fact verified / 4 minutes

Exact answer: 15 to 60 minutes

There are several ways that medicine can get into your body. Tablet, liquid, or injection are all options. A suppository is another form of drug delivery. This is a small spherical or tapered instrument that you can insert into your body, usually the lower part of your body. It melts or dissolves once inside the body, releasing the drug.

Total

Switch

Suppositories are not always the most pleasant product to use. However, they can make it easier to take medications that you can’t swallow or that your stomach or intestines can’t absorb properly.

How long does it take for a suppository to work?

Suppositories are tablets that are inserted into the rectum, vaginal canal or urethra. The most common form of suppositories are rectal suppositories. After using the suppository, you should have a bowel movement within 15-60 minutes.

Every person’s bowel movement is different. In adults, bowel movements occur from once a day to once or twice a week. The usual frequency of defecation in preschool children ranges from once a day to once every other day. Drinking plenty of water, eating high-fiber foods, and exercising regularly are the most effective ways to relieve constipation.

Doctors prescribe many types of suppositories for various medical situations and purposes. Some are placed in the rectum, while others are placed in the vagina. The use of urethral suppositories is less common. Suppositories can either cure the immediate site or penetrate through the bloodstream to distant areas of the body.

There are three types of suppositories. Rectal suppositories are inserted into the rectum or anus. They are about an inch long with a rounded tip. They can help with constipation, discomfort, and nausea. Vaginal suppositories are oval-shaped suppositories that are inserted into the vaginal canal to treat bacterial or fungal infections and vaginal dryness. Men with erectile dysfunction can use urethral suppositories to take the medication alprostadil. The size of a suppository is a grain of rice.

A few steps on how to use suppositories are as follows:

• Remove the suppository from the package.
• Most people find that wetting the suppository with a little tap water before insertion helps.
• Gently insert the suppository as far as possible into the posterior canal (rectum) with your finger.
• Remain still for a few minutes to keep the suppository in place. It should start working in about 20 minutes.
• Wash your hands afterwards.

Unless your doctor has told you otherwise, do not take suppositories more than once a day. When suppositories are taken too regularly, they can lead to the loss of normal bowel function and the inability to have a bowel movement without them.

Why does the suppository last so long?

Suppositories take time to work because they consist of a filler that melts at body temperature. A substance such as cocoa butter or gelatin surrounds the medicine. They are intended exclusively for insertion into the anus. They allow you to act quickly, since the rectum is abundantly irrigated, in addition, they do not burden the digestive system.

Suppositories are used to carry various medications and may be needed if a person has convulsions and is unable to take medication by mouth for any reason, unable to hold pills or liquids due to a blockage in the digestive tract that prevents the drug from passing through. Even if the medicine is too unpleasant to take orally, suppositories can be used.

Suppositories are generally safe to use and do not cause any adverse effects. However, some people may experience discomfort or pain in the abdomen where the suppository is inserted. If you have any additional symptoms, ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Advice for people who use suppositories: avoid activity or strenuous exercise for 60 minutes after administration. To lubricate the suppository, avoid using petroleum jelly such as petroleum jelly. Because of this, it will not melt. Use only water or water-based lubricant. To prevent the suppositories from melting, store them in the refrigerator or other cool place. Always follow the storage instructions on the label.

Conclusion

Suppositories are useful for those who cannot swallow drugs. If you have any problems using suppositories, check with your doctor. If they have recently had rectal surgery, prostate surgery, or vaginal therapy, or have an irregular heartbeat, they should see a doctor before taking suppositories. Store the suppository in a cool place.

Recommendations

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002937802713719
2. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/idog/2007/035387/

One request?

I put so much effort into writing this blog post to provide you with value. It will be very helpful for me if you consider sharing it on social networks or with your friends/family. SHARE ♥️

Sandeep Bhandari

Sandeep Bhandari is the founder of ExactlyHowLong.com.

I am a professional full-time blogger, internet marketer and trainer. I love everything connected with the Internet and every day I try to learn new technologies.

All team management, content creation and monetization tasks fall on me. Together with the ExactlyHowLong team, we strive to provide our readers with useful and interesting content.

In game development, I like to play with any engine, toolset, and framework I can find. In digital art, I love everything from painting to vector work, from pixel art to 3D modeling.

In short, if it’s creative and you can do it digitally, I love it.

What do you think?

Suppositories | GxP News

login

Welcome! Log in to your account

Your username is

Your password is

Have you forgotten your password?

Privacy policy

password recovery

Retrieve your password

Your email address

Suppositories (lat. Suppositorium, i, n), suppositories — dosage forms that are solid at room temperature and melt or disintegrate at body temperature, used for injection into body cavities.

There are rectal suppositories (candles) – Suppositoria rectalia; vaginal – Suppositoria vaginalia and sticks – Bacilli.

Rectal suppositories may be in the form of a cone, a cylinder with a pointed end or other shape with a maximum diameter of 1.5 cm. The mass of one suppository must be in the range from 1 to 4 g. If the mass is not specified, then the suppository is made in a mass of 3 g. The mass of suppositories in children should be from 0.5 to 1.5 g. positories can be spherical (balls) – globuli, ovoid (ovuli) – ovula or in the form of a flat body with a rounded end (pessaries) – pessaria. Their mass should be in the range from 1.5 to 6 g. If the mass is not indicated, then vaginal suppositories are made weighing at least 4 g.

Sticks have the shape of a cylinder with a pointed end and a diameter of not more than 1 cm. The mass of the stick should be from 0.5 to 1 g.

Bases hydrogenated and animal fats, tallow, lanol, hydrogenated fat alloys with wax, hard paraffin and other bases approved for medical use.

Gelatin-glycerin gels, polyethylene oxide alloys with different molecular weights and other substances approved for medical use are used as hydrophilic bases. The gelatin-glycerin base is made from medical gelatin, glycerin and water.

In the manufacture of suppositories, butylated hydroxytoluene, butylated hydroxyanisole, citric acid, emulsifier N1 can be used; emulsifier T-1, emulsifier T-2, tween-80, wool wax alcohols, aerosil and other excipients approved for medical use.

Technology

Medicinal substances, if necessary, are crushed, sieved, mixed with the base directly or after dissolving or grinding with a small amount of water. glycerin, vaseline oil or other suitable solvent. Thermolabile substances are added to the semi-cooled base immediately before the formation of suppositories.

Suppositories are prepared by pouring the molten mass into molds, rolling out or pressing on special equipment. Anhydrous lanolin is used as a binder in the manufacture of suppositories by rolling out.

Quality control

Suppositories must be homogeneous in mass, uniform in shape and have a hardness that ensures ease of use. Homogeneity is determined visually on a longitudinal section by the absence of inclusions. An air rod or a funnel-shaped recess is allowed on the cut.

The average weight is determined by weighing 20 suppositories to the nearest 0.01 g. The deviation in weight should not exceed ±5% and only two suppositories may have a deviation of ±7.5%.

For suppositories formulated with lipophilic bases, the melting point is determined according to method 2a[2], which should not normally exceed 37°C. If the determination of the melting temperature is difficult, then determine the time of complete deformation according to the application.