What are suppositories? Let's talk about this simply!

Has your doctor ever recommended that you use a suppository ? Maybe you've heard this name when your little one has a fever , or for some other illness you may have. Many people are a little confused when they hear this name, because they don't have much idea about how to use it. But it's actually a very useful medicine. So today, let's talk about everything there is to know about it, without hiding anything, as if you were talking to your best friend.

Simply put, what are these suppositories?

A suppository is a solid medicine that we insert into the body. They are usually small, thin, round, oval, or cone-shaped. Think of it like a small bullet. It is made of a shell made of something like gelatin or cocoa butter . Inside this shell is the medicine we need.

So when we insert this into the body, the outer covering melts due to our body heat. Then the medicine inside it is released. This medicine goes directly into the blood and starts working, or we treat the area where we inserted it. But remember one thing, just because you use a suppository, you can't always say that you will get better faster than if you take medicine by mouth. It depends on the condition of the patient and the medicine.

Why do we have to use a suppository?

You might think that it would be easier to take a pill, capsule, or syrup by mouth. So why do doctors recommend this method? There are several reasons for that.

• When you can't swallow medicine: Imagine that you are vomiting a lot. At such a time, no matter what medicine you take by mouth, it will not stay in your stomach. Also, some medicines have a very strong taste and cannot be given to small children. Or there may be difficulty swallowing due to some medical condition. In such cases, suppositories are the best solution.
• When the medicine works best: For some conditions, the medicine is more effective when used as a suppository than when taken by mouth. For example, when treating hemorrhoids , the medicine is delivered directly to the area, resulting in faster healing.
• Gastrointestinal obstruction : Sometimes, due to an obstruction in the intestines, oral medications do not reach the correct place. This method is also useful in such cases.

Types of suppositories and when to use them

Suppositories can be divided into three main types, depending on where we insert them.

1. Rectal: This means the type that is inserted through the anus (the opening between the buttocks where stool comes out).

2. Vaginal: The type that is inserted into the vagina of women.

3. Urethral: The type that is inserted through the urethra.

Now let's look at each of these types separately.

3. Urethral Suppositories

This type is a little less common. They are mainly used as a treatment for erectile dysfunction in men.

How to use these correctly?

Okay, now comes the important part. Using these isn't as difficult as you might think, but it's essential to know the correct method.

How to use a rectal suppository

1. Cleansing: If possible, go to the bathroom and empty your bowels before inserting the suppository. Then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

2. Preparation: Remove the medicine from the packet. Do not hold it in your hand for too long, as it may melt in body heat. Some types need to be refrigerated. If so, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using it to let it cool down a bit.

3. Position: Get into a comfortable position. Lie down with one leg close to your chest. Or you can sit leaning forward a little.

4. Insertion: With one hand, spread the buttocks apart and locate the anus. With the other hand, insert the suppository with the pointed end facing forward. Push it in about an inch for an adult, or about half an inch for a small child .

5. Rest : After inserting the patch, do not move for a few minutes. This is when it will dissolve inside the body. If possible, avoid going to the bathroom for at least an hour .

6. Clean up again: When you are finished, wash your hands thoroughly again.

How to use a vaginal suppository

1. Preparation: Open the packet with clean, dry hands. These often come with an applicator, a device that helps insert the medication, similar to a tampon.

2. Posture: Stand with one leg on a chair, or lower yourself by bending your knees, or lean forward and bring one knee to your chest.

3. Insertion: Insert the suppository into the vagina using the applicator. Then remove the applicator slowly.

4. Rest: It takes a few minutes for the medicine to dissolve and be absorbed into the body, so stay still for a while.

5. Cleaning: If the applicator is reusable, clean it thoroughly according to the instructions on the package. Or throw it in the trash. Finally, wash your hands thoroughly.

What are the possible side effects?

Suppositories are a very safe form of medicine, but like any medicine, there can sometimes be minor risks or side effects .

• The medicine comes out or leaks before it is properly absorbed by the body.
• Not getting the expected results (at which point your doctor will recommend another medication).
• Any burning, itching, or discomfort in the area where the medicine was injected.

If you have any questions or concerns about this, talk to your doctor openly about it. Also, inform your doctor about your complete medical history, recent surgeries, etc. Because based on such information, he can decide whether this treatment is right for you or not.