Glycerin suppositories: instructions for use, price, reviews for newborns and pregnancy

A sedentary lifestyle, taking certain medications, stress, or hemorrhoids can cause difficulty bowel movements. Due to the immaturity of the gastrointestinal tract, young children, as well as when switching to artificial feeding or introducing complementary foods into the diet, may also experience problems with stool.

Treatment of chronic disorders involves taking medications. As an emergency measure, suppositories with glycerin for constipation will come to the rescue.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

Glycerol ( glycerol ) is an osmotically active substance that increases excessive hydrostatic pressure. In medical practice, such properties of this compound are used to facilitate the transition of fluid from the extravascular bed to the blood serum.

When used parenterally and orally at a dosage of 1-2 grams per kilogram of body weight, glycerol, due to its dehydrating effect (increasing plasma osmolarity), helps reduce intracranial and intraocular pressure. In these cases, how quickly glycerin acts and how long it takes to act in adult patients depends on the direction of its use.

Maximum effectiveness when using the drug to reduce intracranial pressure is observed within 1-1.5 hours after its use. The onset of action to reduce intraocular pressure is observed after 10 minutes, maximum effectiveness develops after 1-1.5 hours, duration of action is about 5 hours.

Glycerol is used for dehydration therapy, indicated for cerebral edema , which occurred due to various reasons (including cases of acute poisoning), on the eve of or after ophthalmic surgery (to reduce intraocular pressure), as well as to relieve negative symptoms of an acute attack of glaucoma .

As an external remedy, Glycerin is useful for its dermatoprotective and softening qualities, as well as pronounced lubricating and hygroscopic properties. When applied to the skin, metabolic processes are activated in it, and a protective film is formed on its surface.

In pharmaceutical practice, glycerol is often used to make an emollient ointment or cream for hands and/or feet. Quite popular in cosmetology are an anti-wrinkle face mask and a hair mask, as well as glycerin soap and glycerin oil with the addition of vitamins and other useful ingredients. However, you should avoid frequent use of glycerin oil and glycerin soap, the benefits and harms of which, especially for people with oily skin, may not be as expected (excessive skin whitening and acne ).

Glycerin rectal suppositories are a laxative remedy designed to soften previously hardened fecal matter, which leads to easier passage through the lumen of the colon. Also, this local drug is characterized by an irritant effect on the intestinal mucosa and reflex stimulation of the motility of the lower gastrointestinal tract.

When used rectally, glycerol undergoes fairly rapid resorption in the intestinal mucous membranes. How long it takes for glycerin suppositories to take effect depends on the individual characteristics of the human body; on average, the laxative effect develops within 15-30 minutes. The main biotransformation of the active ingredient occurs in the liver. Excretion is carried out by the kidneys (7-14% of glycerol is excreted in unchanged form).

Side effect

With long-term use of glycerin suppositories, a person may develop a number of side effects:

weakening of the natural reflex to defecate;
irritation of the mucous membrane of the rectum and perianal area;
catarrhal paraproctitis.

In case of individual intolerance, after the first use of the drug, the patient experiences local allergic reactions, the main symptoms of which are burning and itching.

If any side effects occur, further use of laxative suppositories should be discontinued and consult your doctor.

Indications for use

As a therapeutic agent, the drug is indicated for use in cases of difficult bowel movements or its complete absence, in other words, these suppositories are prescribed to patients suffering from constipation of various origins (functional, age-related, psychogenic, etc.), including similar negative phenomena in nursing mothers and pregnant women .

As a prophylactic agent, the drug is used to prevent constipation in patients for whom physical stress is contraindicated, including that which occurs during the act of defecation: anorectal abscess , thrombosed painful hemorrhoids , anorectal stenosis , a history of anal fissures myocardial infarction and other similar painful condition.

How long does it take for a glycerin suppository to work? description of the drug, instructions, indications

Many people regularly suffer from constipation. As a rule, this pathological condition is associated with impaired functioning of the digestive tract. In addition, constipation can occur due to poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and lack of fluid in the body.

Most people with this problem do not go to the doctor because of its sensitivity. However, experts say that with prolonged constipation, the entire human body is subject to severe intoxication. Moreover, such conditions often lead to inflammation of the hemorrhoids

Therefore, if constipation occurs, it is very important to take immediate measures to eliminate it.

Many patients with this problem use various oral remedies, including decoctions and herbal infusions. However, such methods give results within a few hours or even a day.

If the patient requires a quick effect, doctors recommend using rectal medications, for example, suppositories. Glycerin suppositories are the most gentle.

Their use is indicated not only for constipation, but also for inflamed hemorrhoids, when it is difficult for the patient to empty his bowels due to severe pain.

Composition, description and packaging

How long does it take for a glycerin suppository to work? You will learn about this a little further.

The medication in question is a torpedo-shaped suppository. It may be clear or slightly cloudy. As a rule, such candles melt quickly at a temperature of 34 degrees and do not have a distinct odor.

This drug contains the following ingredients: glycerol, stearic acid and crystalline sodium carbonate. The total weight of candles for adults is about 2.75 g, and for children - 1.6 g.

Glycerin suppositories for children and adults can be purchased at any pharmacy. They are packed in thick foil and placed in a cardboard box.

Features of the drug

Only those who have repeatedly used this drug know how long it takes for a glycerin suppository to work. As for patients who decided to use a suppository for the first time, this question remains open for them.

According to the instructions, the medication in question is an excellent dermatoprotector. As mentioned above, its active ingredient is glycerol. Thanks to him, this drug has a laxative effect.

It has a mild and fairly mild irritating effect on the mucous walls of the intestine, stimulating its motility at the reflex level and facilitating the passage of fecal matter, lubricating and softening hardened fecal stones.

Indications for use of suppositories

Glycerin suppositories for children and adults are prescribed for constipation. This drug is also actively used to prevent the mentioned condition in people with thrombosed and painful hemorrhoids, as well as patients with perianal abscess, anorectal stenosis and after myocardial infarction.

It should also be noted that this drug can be used for severe constipation in pregnant women and nursing mothers.

How long does it take for a glycerin suppository to work?

Many people who use this remedy for the first time ask their doctors this question. Doctors say that such suppositories act quite quickly. Typically, softening of stool and its movement through the intestines is observed after 15-25 minutes. After half an hour, complete emptying occurs.

It should also be noted that after excretion of fecal matter, patients do not feel repeated urges, as quite often happens when taking oral medications. Therefore, using candles in the morning, you will not worry that their effect will take you by surprise at work or on the street.

Side effects

Now you know how long it takes for a glycerin suppository to work. This medication causes side effects extremely rarely. According to the instructions, such a remedy can only cause a burning sensation in the rectal area. In this case, it is recommended to carry out banal hygiene procedures.

Special Recommendations

How often can glycerin suppositories be used for constipation? Long-term use of this drug leads to a weakening of the physiological, that is, natural process of defecation. Therefore, it should be used only according to strict indications, when the emptying process is especially difficult.

It should also be noted that it is unacceptable to lubricate rectal suppositories with solid, mineral or liquid oils.

Contraindications

The use of Glycerin suppositories is prohibited when:

pain in the abdomen of an uncertain nature;
individual hypersensitivity;
tumor formations of the rectum;
renal failure;
inflammatory pathologies of the rectum ( proctitis , paraproctitis );
appendicitis;
intestinal bleeding ;
presence of anal fissures ;
manifestations of diarrhea ;
exacerbation of hemorrhoids .

When to use

The drug is widely known among the population.
It has been present on the shelves of stationary pharmacies for decades and has not lost its significance to this day. Glycerin suppositories are used to block pain and neutralize constipation in hemorrhoids. They have a mild effect and quickly stimulate the liquefaction of stagnant fecal stones.

Their main function is to block the inflammatory process. At the same time, they do not have a significant list of contraindications, and also do not have a high cost.

Glycerin suppositories, instructions for use

Suppositories with glycerin are intended exclusively for rectal administration, which is best administered 15-20 minutes after a meal (usually breakfast).

Instructions for the use of glycerin suppositories for children over 7 years of age and adult patients involve the use of a dosage of 2.11 grams (1 adult suppository), administered once every 24 hours.

Instructions for use for newborns recommend using children's glycerin suppositories in a dose of 1.24 grams, with a single daily administration of ½ suppository for children under 3 years of age and a whole suppository for children 3-7 years of age.

Instructions for use during pregnancy correspond to the recommendations given for adult patients. Suppositories can be administered to pregnant women only after a comprehensive examination by a gynecologist and with his consent.

How long it takes for a glycerin suppository to take effect in an adult and a child depends on the dose and the individual response of the patient’s body to the effects of glycerol. As a rule, no more than 30 minutes pass from the moment the suppository is introduced until the act of defecation.

If absolutely necessary, adult and pediatric doses can be doubled.

Method of using rectal suppositories

Before using glycerin suppositories, you must thoroughly wash your hands with soap, after which, in order to cool, it is advisable to hold them for some time under cold water. Since the base of rectal suppositories quickly melts upon contact with warm hands, in addition to cooling the hands, it is also recommended to cool the suppository itself by placing it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before using it or also holding it under cold water (do not remove the primary wrapper from the suppository follows), which will make it more durable.
After the procedures described above, you must carefully remove the primary packaging from the candle, using a sharp object (knife, scissors) if necessary.
If it is necessary to use ½ candle, cut it lengthwise into two equal parts using a disposable razor blade.
The suppository removed from the wrapper should be taken with clean fingers or hands wearing disposable gloves.
Lubricate the tip of the candle with a water-soluble lubricant (without Vaseline ) or moisten the anus with cool water.
Take a lying position on your side with your lower leg fully straightened and your upper leg bent towards your stomach.
Lift your upper buttock with your free hand, thereby opening the rectal area.
Insert the suppository into the anus and insert it into the rectum using your fingertips beyond the muscular sphincter to a distance of approximately 2.5-5 cm in adults and 2.5 cm in infants.
Bring your buttocks together and hold them in this state for several seconds.
Remain in a side-lying position for 5 minutes, which will prevent the suppository from coming out.
Throw away the used packaging and wash your hands thoroughly.

Is it possible for pregnant women and children

The drug is contraindicated for women during pregnancy due to the risk of stimulating the uterus and provoking miscarriage or premature birth.

During lactation, it is allowed as prescribed by a doctor and when assessing the possible risks for the child, since no studies have been conducted on the penetration of glycerol into breast milk.

Children from birth to three years old, with the consent of the pediatrician, are allowed to administer ½ suppository for children once a day. At the age of 3-7 years, a suppository for children in full can be administered once.

Children starting from school age are prescribed suppositories for adults.

special instructions

You should not resort to systematic use of this remedy. The use of suppositories should be discontinued immediately after restoration of typical physiological intestinal motility.

Do not lubricate candles or the anus with solid or liquid mineral oils .

Glycerin suppositories for hemorrhoids are indicated in case of complications of this disease with constipation , lasting for 2-3 days. The use of suppositories is contraindicated for hemorrhoids in the acute period ( bleeding , bowel prolapse , etc.).

After childbirth, glycerin suppositories can be used if there is no stool for 2-3 days. These recommendations are appropriate especially after childbirth with stitches, when hard stools or physical stress during defecation can damage their integrity. Suppositories can be used only after consultation with a gynecologist and in the absence of mechanical damage to the anus.

Contraindications and side effects

There are restrictions in connection with the use of suppositories, these include:

proctitis – inflammation of the rectum;
neoplasms in the intestines;
anal fissures;
hypersensitivity to glycerol;
acute hemorrhoids.

Important! You should not use the medicine before taking a stool test, as it may affect the results.

No side effects were observed with single use. Long-term and regular use is associated with the risk of the following unpleasant symptoms: irritation, burning sensation, and the intestines refuse to work on their own.

Glycerin acts as a lubricant for the inner surface of the intestines, allowing stool to pass out easily and painlessly

Analogs

Level 4 ATX code matches:
Norgalax

Glycerol

Microlax

Dexeryl
Norgalax
Glycelax
Normacol
Enema
Ready-Tu-Uz
RectActive

Glycerin suppositories for newborns

The instructions for glycerin suppositories for newborns suggest their use from the first days of a child’s life. Glycerin suppositories for infants are usually indicated in a daily dosage equal to ½ suppository weighing 1.24 g, administered once every 24 hours (whether whole baby suppositories can be administered to newborns is decided by the pediatrician, based on the observed situation).

To properly administer the drug to newborns, you should first place the child on his back, bending his legs close to his tummy, and carefully, slowly insert a glycerin suppository (with the rounded end forward) as deep as possible behind the muscle sphincter. You can also lay the baby on his left side and bend his legs at the knees towards the tummy.

After this, you need to close the baby’s buttocks and hold them in this state for some time (about 2 minutes). This manipulation is carried out in order to prevent the suppository from slipping out and its immediate effect.

Reviews from pediatricians say that when the administration procedure is performed correctly, the laxative effect in infants occurs within 5-10 minutes.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

The drug is sold in pharmacy chains in the over-the-counter drug departments. Despite this, you should consult your doctor before you start using it.

It must be remembered that treatment of constipation should be aimed at eliminating the cause that led to its occurrence. Patients should:

follow a diet;
to live an active lifestyle;
take medications that regulate intestinal motor function as prescribed by your doctor.

The use of any laxatives, including suppositories with glycerin, is allowed in short courses and only in consultation with a doctor.

Glycerin suppositories during pregnancy and lactation

The official instructions do not describe any restrictions on the use of the drug for constipation during breastfeeding and pregnancy , which, in principle, is confirmed by numerous reviews of women using this remedy during these periods.

However, some gynecologists do not recommend the use of glycerin suppositories during early pregnancy, since at this time the uterus is quite close to the rectum and the relaxing effect of the drug can also affect its tone. During late pregnancy, the above-described contraindications and the threat of miscarriage .

Causes of stool retention in infants

Glycerin suppositories as a laxative

Glycerin suppositories for children are a laxative drug that is freely sold in pharmacies without a prescription. Doctors often prescribe these suppositories to infants whose stool retention occurs due to a change in diet, for example, the transition from breastfeeding to solid or artificial nutrition.

Children switched to artificial feeding not only defecate less often, but have harder stools. These changes are due to the introduction of solid foods into the baby's diet. During normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, nutrients and water are sucked out of food that enters the intestines, and the remainder is excreted from the body in the form of feces.

In order for the stool to be soft, the excreted products must contain the required amount of water. In addition, for a problem-free withdrawal there should be no disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. When the organs of the gastrointestinal tract (rectum, lower intestines) function ineffectively or when there is insufficient water, constipation occurs.

Reviews of Glycerin suppositories

The vast majority of reviews about this remedy for constipation, including reviews of glycerin suppositories for newborns, children and adult patients, are positive. A significant portion of people using this drug have experienced its rapid and relatively long-lasting effect in the absence of significant side effects and are completely satisfied with the results obtained.

Reviews of glycerin suppositories during pregnancy are not inferior in their positive assessment to the prevailing opinion and also position this drug as quite effective and inexpensive.

However, it should be remembered that the use of glycerin suppositories only facilitates the act of defecation and in no way affects the cause of constipation, which simply needs to be correctly diagnosed and effectively treated.

Glycerin and its properties

In the human body, glycerol is oxidized and as a result turns into liquid and carbon dioxide. The harmlessness and safety of glycerin makes the substance especially popular in cosmetology and medicine. As a component, glycerin is widely used in various products, since it is ideal for moisturizing the skin, relieving irritation, and softening stool. Its beneficial effect on the intestinal mucosa is widely used in proctology.

Glycerin oxidizes quite quickly, and its irritating effect is stopped by liquid and petroleum jelly. That is why glycerin is able to relieve the negative effects of many medications.

Practically without being absorbed into the skin, glycerin penetrates perfectly into the mucous membrane. Glycerin contains sodium, which has an antimicrobial effect.

The substance is an excellent antiseptic, providing an insecticidal effect. Main properties of glycerin:

safety for humans;
effective skin hydration;
moisturizing the intestinal mucous membranes;
relieving irritation;
softening stool for constipation.

Indications for use of glycerin suppositories

Very often, hemorrhoids interfere with the normal process of defecation. A person experiences severe pain and discomfort when constipated. For hemorrhoids that are accompanied by constipation, glycerin rectal suppositories are indicated, which are good at stimulating bowel movements.

That is why doctors prescribe harmless glycerin suppositories to improve bowel movements, which can be used repeatedly.

Very often, glycerin suppositories are prescribed by gynecologists during pregnancy when there is difficulty defecating due to pressure on the intestines of the developing fetus. Glycerin does not penetrate into the blood at all and is absolutely non-toxic.

Due to their safety, glycerin suppositories have virtually no contraindications.

Side effects and contraindications

Contraindications to the use of glycerin suppositories:

presence of tumor processes;
exacerbation of inflammation in the intestines and anus;
severe bleeding of cracks;
individual intolerance to the drug - burning in the rectum.

Mechanism of action and instructions for use of glycerin suppositories

With effective bowel movements, pressure on inflamed hemorrhoids is reduced, which is why it is so important that treatment of hemorrhoids is accompanied by regular bowel movements. The rectal suppository begins its effect immediately after direct insertion into the anus

Operating principle of a rectal suppository:

A rectal suppository begins its effect immediately after direct insertion into the anus. Operating principle of a rectal suppository:

first, the outer shell of the suppository quickly dissolves;
stool softens;
carbon dioxide and water are formed in the intestines;
irritation of the intestinal walls occurs;
smooth muscle tone increases;
the urge to defecate is caused.

Glycerin suppositories are an excellent symptomatic remedy that is intended to stimulate bowel movements. This drug is completely unsuitable for the prevention of constipation.

A rectal suppository must be inserted into the rectum, preferably in the morning, half an hour after eating.

At the same time, be sure to take into account that after a few minutes there will be a need to have a bowel movement.

Basic rules for using glycerin suppositories

Repeated use of glycerin suppositories is harmless, but you should still not use glycerin suppositories for too long a period. In such a case, the body's reaction may be different. Cracks in the intestines or the appearance of new hemorrhoids may occur.
You should be very careful when using glycerin suppositories if there are contraindications to their use.
If a burning sensation occurs in the anus after the administration of a glycerin suppository, you must stop using the drug and do a cleansing oil enema.

You can buy glycerin suppositories in pharmacies for free sale at an affordable price. Suppositories based on glycerin can effectively cope with constipation and have a beneficial effect on the process of bowel movements. The drug is completely non-toxic and is used in pregnant women and newborns in case of constipation. It is necessary to use no more than 1 suppository per day.