Laxatives
Glycerin suppository
Glycerin is an over-the-counter suppository (medicine you put into your bottom) that is used to treat constipation.
Suppositories are most helpful when a person hasn’t had a bowel movement in several days. If stool sits in your body for too long, it can get very hard and difficult to pass. Glycerin suppositories draw water into your rectum and loosen hard stool so you can pass it. This can be uncomfortable, but they help if you are in a bind.
Before trying this option, ask your care team if suppositories are safe for you.
How do I take this medicine?
Before trying this option, ask your care team if suppositories are safe for you. If your white blood cells (infection fighting cells) are very low, your doctor may tell you it isn’t safe to use a suppository. Also - if you have an ostomy, you should not use a suppository.
Suppositories are taken rectally. Here are the steps:
Step 1
Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
Step 2
If suppository is soft, chill in the refrigerator or run cold water over it. Then, remove the wrapper.
Step 3
Get into a comfortable position. You have a few options:
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Stand with one leg up on a chair, OR
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Lie on your side with one knee bent toward your chest
Step 4
Gently spread your buttocks open.
Step 5
Carefully push the suppository in your rectum with gentle pressure, pointed end first. It should go in about 1 inch.
Step 6
Close your legs and sit or lay down for at least 15 minutes to let the medicine absorb. Try to hold in your stool until you feel a strong urge to go to the bathroom.
Step 7
Wash your hands again, with soap and warm water.
How long does it take to get relief?
Glycerin suppositories take about 15 to 30 minutes to start working. When they work, most people will have a bowel movement within a few hours.
Because they work fairly quickly, it is important to take them at home where you can make it to the bathroom quickly.
What are the side effects?
The most common side effects of a glycerin suppository are abdominal cramps, loose stools, diarrhea, or rectal pain.
Pain and cramps from taking a suppository are usually worse when a person has severe constipation, and the symptoms go away after having a good-sized bowel movement.
If you have severe belly pain, diarrhea or other side effects, talk to your care team. They may suggest a different medication.
