Sometimes you have times when you go to the toilet and your bowels are full and you feel very uncomfortable, right? We call this constipation. Most of the time, this is not a serious problem, but it is a very uncomfortable condition. So, Glycerin suppositories are a medicine that many people know and use to relieve constipation in such emergencies. Today, let's talk about what exactly this is, how it works in our body, and what things to be careful about when using it.
Simply put, what is this Glycerin Suppository?
This is actually a small, bullet-shaped pill that is inserted into the rectum. It belongs to a class of drugs called laxatives . Simply put, it is a type of medicine that loosens stool and makes it easier to pass.
The way this works is very simple.
1. Water absorption: When this medicine is inserted into the rectum, it draws water into the intestine.
2. Softening the flower: When you draw water like this, the dry, hardened flower gradually softens.
3. Increasing pressure: Also, this process creates pressure inside the intestine. This pressure stimulates the muscles of the intestine and makes it easier to push the stool out.
This is usually used for sudden constipation , not a regular remedy for long-term constipation.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Although you can buy this medicine at a pharmacy, if you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely talk to your doctor before using it.
- If you have severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
- If there has been a sudden change in your bowel habits for more than two weeks.
- If you have used this type of laxative for more than a week.
- If you have allergies to glycerin or other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
It is very important for your safety to tell the doctor about things like this.
How exactly do you use this?
It is very important to use this correctly. If used incorrectly, it will not give the desired results.
Extremely important: This medicine should only be used rectally . Taking it by mouth (drinking it) is strictly prohibited .
Here's how to do it step by step:
1. Wash your hands: First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after use.
2. Remove the cover: Carefully remove the silver foil wrapping around the pill.
3. Moisten: Slightly moisten the tip of the pill with a little cold water. This will make insertion easier.
4. Correct posture: Lie on your side in bed. Keep the bottom leg straight and the top leg bent at the knee and brought to your stomach.
5. Insertion: Lift the buttock slightly to expose the rectal area. Now slowly, using gentle pressure, insert the pill all the way into the rectum.
6. Hold for a while: Press your buttocks together for a few seconds. Then hold for about 15 minutes. This will stop the pill from coming out again.
Typically, bowel movements should occur within 15 minutes to an hour after using this.
If you give it to small children...
Doctors sometimes recommend this even for children over 2 years old. However, do not give this to young children without the advice of a doctor , as there are precautions involved.
Special points to be aware of
- If your symptoms don't improve, or if they get worse, talk to your doctor.
- If you want to use this medicine for more than a week, it's not a good idea. You should talk to your doctor about that too.
- When using this medicine, do not take it with other stool softeners ( laxatives ).
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
- Most importantly: If you do not have a bowel movement within an hour of using the medicine, see your doctor immediately.
Warning: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Side effect | Description |
| Allergic Reactions | Symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Rectal pain or bleeding | If you experience rectal inflammation, pain, or bleeding after using the medicine. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual in addition to these, consult your doctor immediately.
How do you properly store and dispose of medicine?
- Storage: Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets . It is best to store it at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not store it in places where it will be exposed to excessive heat. Do not use expired medicine.
- Disposal: Expired or no longer needed medications should be disposed of. If you are unsure whether to put them in the trash or flush them down the toilet, it is best to ask your doctor . If you are throwing them in the trash, remove the medication from the packaging, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, and place it in a baggie, seal it, and dispose of it.
Take-Home Message
- Glycerin suppositories are a temporary solution for sudden constipation. They are not a permanent solution.
- When using the medicine, follow the instructions on the label or as directed by your doctor.
- If you have symptoms such as severe stomach pain or vomiting, do not use this and see a doctor.
- If you do not pass stool within an hour of using the medicine, or if you experience rectal bleeding, seek medical advice immediately.
- Always keep this medicine away from small children and in a safe place.


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