How do glycerin suppositories work to relieve constipation. What are the potential side effects of using glycerin suppositories. Who should avoid using glycerin suppositories for constipation relief. How to properly administer glycerin suppositories for optimal results. What precautions should be taken when using glycerin suppositories in children or during pregnancy.

Understanding Glycerin Suppositories: A Gentle Approach to Constipation Relief

Glycerin suppositories, also known by brand names like Pedia-Lax, Fleet Babylax, and Colace Glycerin Suppositories, are a common over-the-counter remedy for occasional constipation. These laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines, softening stool and promoting bowel movements.

Are glycerin suppositories suitable for everyone? While generally safe, certain individuals should exercise caution or consult a healthcare provider before use. This includes pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under 2 years old. Additionally, those with certain medical conditions or taking other medications should seek medical advice prior to using glycerin suppositories.

How Glycerin Suppositories Function in the Body

Glycerin suppositories belong to a class of medications known as hyperosmotic laxatives. When inserted rectally, they draw water into the intestines through osmosis. This increased water content softens the stool and stimulates bowel movements, typically within 15 to 60 minutes after administration.

Do glycerin suppositories work differently than oral laxatives? Unlike oral laxatives that must pass through the digestive system, glycerin suppositories act directly in the rectum and lower colon. This localized action often results in faster relief compared to some oral options.

The Science Behind Glycerin’s Laxative Effect

Glycerin’s effectiveness as a laxative stems from its hygroscopic properties, meaning it attracts and holds water molecules. When introduced to the rectum, it creates an osmotic gradient that pulls water from surrounding tissues into the bowel. This increased fluid volume softens stool and stimulates the natural muscular contractions of the intestines, facilitating easier passage.

Proper Administration of Glycerin Suppositories

Correct administration is crucial for the safe and effective use of glycerin suppositories. Follow these steps for optimal results:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after use
2. Remove the suppository from its packaging
3. Moisten the suppository with water if desired for easier insertion
4. Lie on your left side with your right knee bent towards your chest
5. Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first
6. Hold the position for a few minutes to allow the suppository to dissolve

How long should you wait for results after using a glycerin suppository? Most individuals experience a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes. If no relief occurs within an hour, consult a healthcare provider.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally well-tolerated, glycerin suppositories can cause side effects in some individuals. Common reactions may include:

• Rectal discomfort or burning sensation
• Mild cramping
• Nausea
• Gas or bloating

When should you seek medical attention after using a glycerin suppository? Discontinue use and contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or no bowel movement within an hour of use. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Allergic Reactions and Contraindications

Although rare, some individuals may be allergic to glycerin or other components of the suppository. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

Who should avoid using glycerin suppositories? Individuals with the following conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Severe abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Suspected appendicitis
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis

Special Considerations for Pediatric Use

Glycerin suppositories are available in pediatric formulations for use in children. However, caution is advised when administering to young patients. Always use products specifically designed for children and follow age-appropriate dosing guidelines.

Can glycerin suppositories be safely used in infants? While glycerin suppositories are generally considered safe for infants when used occasionally, it’s crucial to consult a pediatrician before administering them to babies or children under 2 years old. Overuse of laxatives in young children can lead to dependence and interfere with normal bowel function development.

Proper Dosing for Children

Pediatric glycerin suppositories come in different sizes and concentrations based on age. Always follow the package instructions or your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Typical guidelines include:

• Infants (with doctor approval): 1 infant-size suppository as needed
• Children 2-5 years: 1 child-size suppository as needed
• Children 6-12 years: 1 regular-size suppository as needed

How often can glycerin suppositories be used in children? To avoid dependence, limit use to no more than once daily and for no longer than a week without consulting a healthcare provider.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations

The use of glycerin suppositories during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration. While glycerin is not known to cause harm to unborn babies, the FDA classifies it as Pregnancy Category C, indicating that potential risks cannot be ruled out.

Is it safe to use glycerin suppositories while pregnant? Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using glycerin suppositories. In many cases, dietary changes and other non-pharmacological approaches may be recommended as first-line treatments for constipation during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding and Glycerin Suppositories

Limited data exists on the transfer of glycerin into breast milk. While systemic absorption of rectally administered glycerin is minimal, nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider before use. In most cases, glycerin suppositories are considered compatible with breastfeeding when used as directed.

Interactions with Other Medications and Substances

Glycerin suppositories generally have few interactions with other medications due to their localized action. However, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking before using glycerin suppositories.

Can glycerin suppositories be used alongside other laxatives? Combining multiple laxatives can lead to excessive bowel stimulation and electrolyte imbalances. Avoid using other laxatives in conjunction with glycerin suppositories unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.

Potential Interactions to Watch For

While rare, some potential interactions to be aware of include:

• Increased effects of blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin) due to changes in vitamin K absorption
• Altered absorption of oral medications taken within a short time of glycerin suppository use
• Potential electrolyte imbalances when used with certain diuretics or heart medications

How can you minimize the risk of drug interactions with glycerin suppositories? Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking, and avoid using glycerin suppositories within two hours of taking oral medications unless otherwise directed.

Long-term Use and Potential Risks

While glycerin suppositories are generally safe for occasional use, long-term or frequent use can lead to complications. Overuse may result in electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, or dependence on laxatives for bowel movements.

How long can glycerin suppositories be used safely? For adults, limit use to no more than once daily for no longer than a week without consulting a healthcare provider. If constipation persists, it’s essential to address underlying causes rather than relying on laxatives.

Alternatives to Long-term Laxative Use

For individuals experiencing chronic constipation, consider these alternatives to long-term laxative use:

• Increasing dietary fiber intake
• Staying well-hydrated
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Establishing a consistent bathroom routine
• Exploring probiotics or fiber supplements

When should you consult a healthcare provider about chronic constipation? If constipation persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal pain, or blood in the stool, seek medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.

Proper Storage and Disposal of Glycerin Suppositories

To maintain the effectiveness and safety of glycerin suppositories, proper storage is crucial. Keep suppositories in their original packaging, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Most glycerin suppositories can be stored at room temperature, but always check the package instructions for specific guidance.

How should unused or expired glycerin suppositories be disposed of? Do not flush suppositories down the toilet or pour them down the drain. Instead, remove them from their packaging and mix with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds or cat litter before disposing in the household trash. This helps prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.

Shelf Life and Expiration Dates

Glycerin suppositories typically have a shelf life of 2-3 years when stored properly. Always check the expiration date before use and discard any expired products. Using expired suppositories may result in reduced effectiveness or increased risk of side effects.

Can glycerin suppositories be used if they’ve melted and re-solidified? If glycerin suppositories have melted due to heat exposure, they should not be used. The change in physical structure may affect their efficacy and safety. Always store suppositories in a cool, dry place to prevent melting.

Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Brand Names:Avedana Glycerin Suppositories Adult, Colace Glycerin Suppositories, Fleet Babylax, Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Adult, Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Pediatric, Fleet Liquid Glycerin Suppositories

Reviewed: June 23, 2020

Glycerin rectal is used as a laxative. It works by causing the intestines to hold more water, which softens the stool.

Glycerin rectal is used to treat occasional constipation or to cleanse the bowel before a rectal exam or other intestinal procedure.

Glycerin rectal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

uses

What is Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid) used for?

• Constipation

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to glycerin.

To make sure glycerin rectal is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain;
• rectal bleeding;
• a change in bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks or longer;
• ulcerative colitis, toxic megacolon; or
• if you have used another laxative for longer than 1 week.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether glycerin rectal will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether glycerin rectal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

When using this medication in any child, use only the forms that are specially made for children. Certain brands of glycerin rectal should not be used in children.

Do not use glycerin rectal in a child younger than 2 years old without the advice of a doctor.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using glycerin rectal and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain or cramping;
• rectal bleeding; or
• no bowel movement within 1 hour after use.

Common side effects may include:

• loose stools;
• nausea or stomach discomfort; or
• rectal pain or burning.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

C

Risk cannot be ruled out

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether glycerin rectal will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether glycerin rectal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

Avoid using other laxatives in combination with glycerin rectal unless your doctor has told you to.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

Use Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

Since this medicine is usually given only once as needed, you will not be on a dosing schedule. Do not use glycerin rectal more than once in a 24-hour period.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Glycerin (Pedia-Lax Liquid), call 911

911

Find Another Drug

Search prescription drugs, over-the counter medications, and supplements

Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

Fleet Glycerin (Child) 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 PEDIA-LAX Suppository, Rectal

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 not known whether 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 PEDIA-LAX Suppository, Rectal 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

Fleet Glycerin (Child) rectal suppository

Color: colorlessShape: coneImprint:

This medicine is a colorless, cone, suppos

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 PEDIA-LAX Suppository, Rectal?

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.

Instructions – Genferon Light suppositories

Immunobiological properties

GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU is a combination drug, the action of which is due to the components that make up its composition. It has a local and systemic effect.

GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU contains recombinant human interferon alfa-2b, produced by a strain of Escherichia coli bacterium, into which the human interferon alfa-2b gene has been introduced by genetic engineering.

Interferon alfa-2b has antiviral, immunomodulatory, antiproliferative and antibacterial effects. The antiviral effect is mediated by the activation of a number of intracellular enzymes that inhibit viral replication. The immunomodulatory effect is manifested primarily by an increase in cell-mediated reactions of the immune system, which increases the effectiveness of the immune response against viruses, intracellular parasites and cells that have undergone tumor transformation. This is achieved by activating CD8+ T-killers, NK-cells (natural killers), enhancing the differentiation of B-lymphocytes and their production of antibodies, activating the monocyte-macrophage system and phagocytosis, as well as increasing the expression of molecules of the major histocompatibility complex type I, which increases the likelihood recognition of infected cells by cells of the immune system. Activation under the influence of interferon of leukocytes contained in all layers of the mucous membrane ensures their active participation in the elimination of pathological foci; in addition, due to the influence of interferon, restoration of the production of secretory immunoglobulin A is achieved. The antibacterial effect is mediated by reactions of the immune system, enhanced by interferon.

Taurine contributes to the normalization of metabolic processes and tissue regeneration, has a membrane-stabilizing and immunomodulating effect. Being a strong antioxidant, taurine directly interacts with reactive oxygen species, the excess accumulation of which contributes to the development of pathological processes. Taurine helps to preserve the biological activity of interferon, enhancing the therapeutic effect of the drug.

Pharmacokinetics

With rectal administration of the drug, high bioavailability (more than 80%) of interferon is noted, in connection with which both local and pronounced systemic immunomodulatory effects are achieved; with intravaginal use, due to the high concentration in the focus of infection and fixation on the cells of the mucous membrane, a pronounced local antiviral, antiproliferative and antibacterial effect is achieved, while the systemic effect due to the low absorption capacity of the vaginal mucosa is insignificant. The maximum concentration of interferon in the blood serum is reached 5 hours after the administration of the drug. The main route of excretion of α-interferon is renal catabolism. The half-life is 12 hours, which necessitates the use of the drug 2 times a day.

Indications for use

As a component of complex therapy – for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and other infectious diseases of bacterial and viral etiology in children.

– As a component of complex therapy – for the treatment and prevention of repeated episodes of acute respiratory viral infections in frequently and long-term ill children aged 3 to 6 years.

– For the treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract in children and women, including pregnant women, against the background of specific therapy prescribed and controlled by a doctor.

Dosage and administration

The drug can be used both vaginally and rectally. The route of administration, dose and duration of the course depend on the age and the specific clinical situation. In adults and children over 7 years of age, GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU is used at a dose of 250,000 IU of interferon alfa-2b per suppository. In children under 7 years of age, including infants, it is safe to use the drug at a dose of 125,000 IU of interferon alfa-2b per suppository. In women who are 13-40 weeks pregnant, the drug is used at a dose of 250,000 IU of interferon alfa-2b per suppository.

Recommended doses and treatment regimens:

– Acute respiratory viral infections in frequently and chronically ill children aged 3 to 6 years:
1 suppository (125,000 IU) rectally 2 times a day with an interval of 12 hours for 10 days in parallel with standard therapy. After the completion of the main period of treatment of acute respiratory viral infection, it is possible to switch to a prophylactic regimen: 1 suppository (125,000 IU) rectally 1 time at night every other day for 3 weeks.

– Chronic infectious and inflammatory diseases of viral etiology in children older than 7 years: 1 suppository (250,000 IU) rectally 2 times a day with a 12-hour interval parallel to standard therapy for 10 days. Then within 1-3 months – 1 suppository rectally at night every other day.

– Acute infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract in children: 1 suppository rectally 2 times a day with a 12-hour interval for 10 days against the background of a specific therapy prescribed and controlled by a physician.

– Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract in pregnant women: 1 suppository (250,000 IU) vaginally 2 times a day with a 12-hour interval for 10 days against the background of a specific therapy prescribed and controlled by a physician.

– Infectious and inflammatory diseases of the urogenital tract in women: 1 suppository (250,000 IU) vaginally or rectally (depending on the nature of the disease) 2 times a day with a 12-hour interval for 10 days against the background of prescribed and controlled specific therapy physician. With protracted forms 3 times a week every other day, 1 suppository for 1-3 months.

Side effects

The drug is well tolerated by patients. Very rare (frequency less than 1 in 10,000 cases): there are isolated reports of cases of allergic reactions. These phenomena are reversible and disappear within 72 hours after cessation of administration. Continuation of treatment is possible after consultation with a doctor.

No severe or life-threatening side effects have been observed to date.

Contraindications

Individual intolerance to interferon and other substances that make up the drug. I trimester of pregnancy.

Precautions

Aggravation of allergic and autoimmune diseases.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Clinical studies have proven the efficacy and safety of GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU in women at 13-40 weeks of pregnancy. Use in the first trimester of pregnancy is contraindicated.

No restrictions for use during lactation.

Interaction with other drugs

GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU is most effective as a component of complex therapy. When combined with antibacterial, fungicidal and antiviral drugs, mutual potentiation of action is observed, which makes it possible to achieve a high total therapeutic effect.

Overdose

Cases of overdose of GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU have not been registered. In case of accidental simultaneous administration of more suppositories than prescribed by the doctor, further administration should be suspended for 24 hours, after which treatment can be resumed according to the prescribed scheme.

Special instructions

GENFERON ^® LITE 125 thousand IU does not affect the performance of potentially hazardous activities that require special attention and quick reactions (driving vehicles, machinery, etc.).

Storage and transport conditions

At temperatures from 2 to 8 ⁰ C.
Keep out of the reach of children.

Product form

Vaginal and rectal suppositories 125,000 IU + 5 mg and 250,000 IU + 5 mg.