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Home > Drug Category > Laxatives & Antidiarrhea > Glycerin Suppositories and Equivalent

Glycerin Suppositories Information

Glycerin Suppositories (Glycerin) are a hyperosmotic laxative typically used to treat acute or occasional constipation and are often used to clear the bowel when oral laxatives are unsuitable or too slow. Glycerin suppositories typically produce a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes. In clinical settings, they may also assist in bowel preparation before certain examinations or help manage fecal impaction. Being a suppository, it acts locally within the rectum rather than through systemic absorption or direct chemical irritation of the intestinal mucosa. Upon insertion into the rectum, the glycerin draws water from the surrounding rectal tissues into the lumen through osmosis. This increase in fluid volume widens the rectal wall, triggering the defecation reflex and stimulating contraction of the rectal muscles. Also, this medication acts as a local irritant to the mucous membrane and serves as a lubricant to ease the passage of hard feces.

Glycerin Suppositories Side Effects

While Glycerin Suppositories are generally safe for short-term use, they may cause various side effects depending on individual sensitivity and duration of use. Common mild side effects may include temporary irritation, stinging, or burning after insertion, abdominal cramps, and loose stools. Prolonged or overuse may cause dependency on laxatives for bowel function or rectal discomfort.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you notice serious allergic side effects, such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, or swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat. Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Glycerin Suppositories Precautions

Do not use this hyperosmotic laxative if you are allergic to the active and inactive ingredients in Glycerin Suppositories. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Gastrointestinal tract problems such as intestinal obstruction, inflamed or infected bowel (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease);
• Long-term use of other laxatives;
• Severe fecal impaction (which may require manual removal or an oil-retention enema prior to use);
• Undiagnosed abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

While glycerin acts locally in the rectum and has very low systemic absorption, combining Glycerin Suppositories with other rectal treatments or multiple laxatives should be done cautiously to avoid excessive irritation or electrolyte imbalances. Also, it is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal products and supplements, to determine whether they are safe to use with Glycerin Suppositories. It is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts. However, consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Store this medication at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F) to prevent melting, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Glycerin Suppositories?

No, a prescription is not required from your physician to order Glycerin Suppositories.