Glycerin suppositories: instructions for use for adults, newborns and children

Published 03/02/2019 · Comments: · Reading time: 6 min · Views: Post Views: 571

With all the desire for a healthy lifestyle, situations arise when natural bowel movements are disrupted. Constipation can take you by surprise, regardless of age, gender, or eating habits. The question arises of choosing a safe laxative. Glycerin suppositories for constipation are in great demand; they solve the problem gently and delicately. Let's figure out who the suppositories are for and how the medications work.

How do glycerin suppositories work and their properties?

Due to a decrease in the activity of the stomach, fecal stagnation forms in the rectum, which leads to various problems. The use of glycerin for constipation makes it possible to speed up the natural process of bowel movements.

The drug is considered absolutely safe, so you can use it yourself without a doctor's prescription. Glycerin is the main active ingredient that is beneficial for the human body. The drug is produced only in the form of suppositories.

• Glycerin helps soften stool, which leads to natural bowel movements.
• In addition, glycerin can irritate the thin walls of the stomach to activate the digestive system.

The instructions for using glycerin suppositories are very simple, but it is recommended to follow all expert advice, especially when treating constipation in children.

So, we can conclude that glycerin allows you to simultaneously eliminate fecal stagnation and normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

What happens in the body

To make it easier to administer internally, glycerin suppositories for constipation are made in a cone shape, which they keep at room temperature not exceeding +250C.

It is better to store the drug in the refrigerator, or put it there for half an hour before administering it orally. The principle of operation is such that upon contact with the body after entering the rectum, the suppository shell melts and the medicine begins to melt.

The main component of the drug is glycerin. Entering the rectum through the anus, it irritates its nerve endings, increases the secretion of mucus, softens the stool, since it is hygroscopic and attracts liquid. The action of the active substance tones the muscles, they begin to contract, bowel movements occur softly and painlessly. Therefore, glycerin as a laxative is allowed to be used by adults and children.

If the use of the drug causes irritation and discomfort (pain, itching or burning), then they should be neutralized with a warm microenema with vegetable oil or chamomile.

Indications for use

• In most cases, glycerin suppositories are prescribed for constipation of various origins. This can be stagnation of feces in babies, constipation in pregnant women and older people.
• Glycerin is also very good to use in the treatment of hemorrhoids and anal fissures.
• The drug is prescribed to patients who have difficulty standing up due to postoperative stitches.

Glycerin has a gentle effect on the walls of the anus, accelerates the passage of feces through the rectum, relieves pain and irritation, and normalizes intestinal function. Next, we will consider in detail how to use glycerin suppositories for constipation.

Application

Regardless of the form of release, the drug with glycerin is administered rectally.

It is more convenient to do this in the morning, after breakfast, to strengthen the defecation reflex.

The solid suppository is removed from the packaging and carefully inserted into the anus. When selecting bottles, the cannula is carefully inserted into the anus and the bottom of the tube is pressed with your hand, quickly introducing the contents. The effect of the drug will begin in 10 - 20 minutes. Before the urge to defecate appears, it is advisable to lie down and wait until the desired effect develops.

Glycerin acts in 2 directions:

• comes into contact with the intestinal walls, provoking weak contractions and the release of mucous secretions;
• surrounds feces, makes them plastic, slippery, making it easier to pass out.

Use one candle or bottle per day.

Treatment with glycerin for constipation lasts no more than 7-10 days.

Conditions such as aggravated hemorrhoids with bleeding, anal fissures are a contraindication for use. Suppositories should not be used if you suspect intestinal obstruction, inflammation of the appendix, or bleeding from the rectum of unknown cause.

In the case of using other medications - suppositories, take a break for several hours, since glycerin interferes with absorption through the mucous membrane.

Glycerin suppositories during pregnancy

Constipation accompanies the period of bearing a baby, starting from the first trimester. The influence of progesterone, the main pregnancy hormone, which relaxes the muscles of not only the uterus, but also the intestinal wall, is affected. Feces move slowly, defecation delay lasts up to several days even with proper nutrition and sufficient movement.

Why is stool retention dangerous during pregnancy?

Disruption of the usual rhythm of bowel movements disturbs the expectant mother and harms the child. With strong straining, the muscles of the abdominal wall become tense, and the load on the uterus increases. Overcrowded intestinal loops compress the uterine walls.

The choice of a product that helps you go to the toilet during pregnancy must meet safety requirements for mother and baby. Suppositories with glycerin are optimal for pregnant women.

Use one suppository in the morning. Candles should not be overused.

Glycerin helps empty the rectum; the medicine does not affect the upper segments. That is why it is important to adjust your diet, include foods with coarse dietary fiber in your daily menu, and drink enough water. Suppositories are used as an auxiliary method, but teaching the intestines to empty their bowels solely with their help is a dubious idea.

Candles in the postpartum period

Regardless of whether the birth took place naturally or through a cesarean section, problems with bowel movements persist even after the baby is born. The mother’s body needs time to recover: it will take about 2 months for the uterus to return to its previous position. It takes at least 2 to 3 weeks for the sutures to heal after excision of the perineum or cesarean section. The pelvic floor muscles also had to do difficult work; the woman experiences pain in the perineum and anus.

In this situation, the slightest straining during bowel movements causes pain. It is important to remember that hemorrhoids are a common companion during the postpartum period.

Glycerin suppositories are simply irreplaceable for relieving the condition. It is safe to start using suppositories in the first days after the birth of a child, as soon as the need arises. Glycerin does not pass through the intestinal wall and is not absorbed into the blood, so it is used during breastfeeding without fear of harming the newborn.

After discharge from the hospital, suppositories are used independently if there is no stool for more than 2 days.

In parallel, lactulose preparations are used to facilitate the passage of food masses. Lactulose works in the upper parts of the intestine, glycerin suppositories - in the lower parts, making the postpartum period easier for the young mother.

Suppositories with glycerin for infants

The criteria for constipation for newborns and babies older than one month differ from those for children of a more conscious age.

If the baby eats only mother's milk, then he may have bowel movements not every day, but once every 5 to 7 days. To assess whether a baby is constipated or not getting enough milk, monitor weight gain and urination. If these indicators do not cause concern, and there is no stool for several days, then there is no reason to worry.

If the baby receives formula, the frequency of stool increases, once every few days - already constipation.

The child shows that the cause of the anxiety lies precisely in the tummy - he strains, his face turns red, his stomach swells, gas passes away, but there is no stool.

Glycerin suppositories for children will come to the aid of mother. Special suppositories for babies or children's bottles with liquid glycerin are used.

“Glycerin” for children produced by “Pharmex Group”

The candle is carefully inserted into the anus, while the baby lies on his side or back. The anus is clamped with the buttocks, preventing the candle from coming out. After a few minutes, the candle will begin to melt, providing a laxative effect.

The instructions for use allow the use of suppositories from the age of one, but in practice suppositories are used from the neonatal period. Glycerin has no toxic effect on the baby. However, if you experience frequent constipation, you definitely need to consult a pediatrician and change your diet.

Suppositories with glycerin for children

Used as an aid to relieve constipation in children of any age. Glycerin suppositories are safe, but they should not be used for a long time, as the body will get used to it. It is always important to identify the cause of stool retention, and administer suppositories as necessary to facilitate the evacuation of intestinal contents and restore the natural reflex.

Mode of application

It is recommended to store glycerin laxative suppositories only at low temperatures. In this case, before administration, it is better to warm the suppository at room temperature, having first removed the protective foil.

Thirty minutes after eating, it is recommended to insert a suppository into the anus. It is best to do this immediately after sleep for greater effect. In addition, you need to provide access to the toilet, so it is better to carry out the procedure at home. We strictly adhere to all instructions from the manufacturer.

Interaction with other drugs

The only form of interaction with other drugs that can be taken into account is that regular use of suppositories together with taking diuretics accelerates the process of dehydration of the body . Due to the neutrality of the ingredients and the local use of suppositories, other forms of their interaction with drugs have not been established.

Before you start using an unfamiliar medication, you must read the instructions for its use, even if it seems as harmless as rectal glycerin suppositories.

In this case, you need to be guided by the following rule: if it is possible to choose a medication that eliminates any symptom of the disease, preference should be given to a softer and more neutral remedy with a minimum number of contraindications and side effects in relation to the body.

Article design: Oleg Lozinsky

Dosage

It is recommended to use glycerin preparations only once a day, strictly observing the following dosages:

• One candle is enough for an adult and school-age children. In serious cases, with severe stagnation of feces, it is allowed to administer two suppositories.
• To speed up bowel movements in children under 3 years of age, one suppository should be divided into two parts.
• Children over three years of age are allowed to administer a whole suppository.

After insertion into the anus, the suppository immediately begins to dissolve and speed up the process of natural bowel movements, so you need to provide access to the toilet.

Release form and cost

The drug is produced by Russian pharmaceutical companies in the form of rectal suppositories, slightly yellowish in color and slightly translucent, in the form of standard suppositories. Glycerin gives them a slightly oily consistency and a barely perceptible specific odor.

Packed in polymer cells of 10 pieces per package. Suppositories are available in pediatric and adult dosages, 1.24/2.11 g of purified glycerol, respectively.

The cost of candles is quite affordable for any consumer - prices range from 140-240 rubles. per package, depending on the dosage and the distributor’s markup.

Contraindications and side effects

Each drug has its own side effects and contraindications, including glycerin suppositories.

1. A person may have an allergic reaction to glycerin. But such phenomena are observed very rarely.
2. It is also not recommended to use suppositories for acute hemorrhoids. It must be remembered that glycerin does not treat hemorrhoids, but only eliminates its symptoms, namely, reduces pain and cracks in the anus.
3. Serious stomach diseases such as tumors also prevent the use of glycerin.

You should also not light candles before taking tests. Glycerin may negatively affect its results.

Suppositories with glycerin after childbirth

The postpartum period in women proceeds differently, depending on the severity of labor. There are often cases when, as a result of surgical intervention or ruptures received during the advancement of the fetus, a woman in labor is subjected to surgical sutures.

Since during a certain period after childbirth until the tissues grow together and are completely healed, the sutures can come apart under any load, it is strictly not recommended to use any forces that lead to tension in the abdominal wall, including during bowel movements due to constipation.

To make this process as easy as possible and prevent constipation, it is often recommended to use laxative suppositories containing glycerin as the main active ingredient in the first few days of the postpartum period.

Of course, their use during this period must be agreed upon with a gynecologist, who must confirm the absence of damage to the anus in the woman in labor.

Glycerin suppositories for children

Due to the imperfection of the digestive system, infants often experience stagnation of feces. However, pediatricians do not advise immediately using various laxatives. First you need to try traditional methods, proper nutrition, which will speed up the natural processes of bowel movements. Products with fiber and fermented milk mixtures, gymnastics and abdominal massage are especially useful.

As a last resort, if traditional methods do not help, glycerin suppositories are prescribed to treat constipation in children. They are completely safe for the health of babies. A newborn can safely be given suppositories with glycerin.

According to the manufacturer's instructions, suppositories can be administered into the rectum of children from 3 months of age. In this case, half the drug will be enough. To avoid side effects when using these suppositories, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician.

Price and analogues

The cost of candles with glycerin is about 200 rubles per package. How much do the closest analogues cost in terms of pharmacological properties and composition?

Price for analogues:

• candles with sea buckthorn oil - about 100 rubles;
• Glycelax – 120-150 rubles;
• Microlax – 300-350 rub.

Microlax is an analogue of candles

Precautionary measures

• We strictly adhere to all recommendations from the manufacturer and doctor.
• It is not recommended to exceed the indicated dosage and duration of treatment.
• Candles should absolutely not be used during pregnancy with complications, for example, when there is a threat of miscarriage.
• When breastfeeding, glycerin suppositories for constipation can be used only after the recommendations of a specialist.
• If any negative reactions occur, such as burning and pain in the anus, it is recommended to stop treatment.

Contraindications

Glycerin suppositories for acute hemorrhoids because they can increase the bleeding of swollen vascular nodes. Other contraindications to the use of suppositories are:

• abdominal pain of unknown origin;
• attack of glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure, determined by ophthalmological examination);
• combination with parenteral (intravenous or intramuscular) solutions;
• individual hypersensitivity to components;
• benign or malignant neoplasms of the rectum;
• renal failure;
• proctitis, paraproctitis (inflammation of the rectal area);
• appendicitis
• high blood pressure;
• recent operations;
• intestinal bleeding;
• anal fissures;
• diarrhea.

Advantages and disadvantages of the method

The main advantages of glycerin-based drugs include:

1. A high level of effectiveness has been proven in clinical trials.
2. Speed ​​of action. Within a few minutes after the introduction of the suppository, glycerin dissolves and the movement of feces accelerates.
3. No side effects. Very rarely, allergic reactions to drugs may occur due to improper use or increased dosage.
4. No systemic effect due to rectal use. The drug acts locally and is aimed at accelerating the natural processes of bowel movements.
5. Glycerin suppositories can be used by both adults and children, pregnant women and during breastfeeding, if there are no contraindications.
6. Simplicity and ease of use. Can be used without a doctor's prescription, because glycerin is safe for human health.
7. Affordable price.

The disadvantages of suppositories include the possibility of allergic reactions due to prolonged use. Also, suppositories are not recommended for use by women with a threat of miscarriage or in the first months of pregnancy.

pharmachologic effect

Mild local laxative. The area of ​​its influence is the sphincter and the lower rectum.

What is the operating principle? A suppository introduced inside dissolves under the influence of body temperature. This triggers the glycerol release reaction. It, in turn, oxidizes and breaks down into 2 components: water and carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide irritates the walls of the rectum, provoking its reflex compression. The movements provoke the movement of feces and the urge to defecate.

The constituent components help soften stool and create conditions for comfortable, quick bowel movements. This reduces pressure on the rectum and the risk of injury to the walls.

Fat content helps restore the walls of the rectum and retains moisture.

The fat content of glycerin suppositories has a beneficial effect on the walls of the rectum

Glycerin suppositories are a means of eliminating symptoms and solving temporary problems with bowel movements. They do not treat diseases such as hemorrhoids, dysbiosis, gastritis and other problems for which constipation is one of the unpleasant symptoms.

How long does it take to work?

The effect of the laxative begins a few minutes after the suppository is administered. The desired result in the form of an urge to go to the toilet occurs quickly within 15-20 minutes.

Analogs

Let's consider popular analogues of glycerin suppositories:

• Glycelax. Helps resolve isolated cases of constipation. The drug has an irritating effect on the rectal mucosa, causing a reflex activation of peristalsis. Glicex contains glycerol, which provides a laxative effect. The drug also acts like an ointment, moisturizing the sphincter area. This helps prevent pain during bowel movements.
• Glycerol. The active component of the drug, as in the previous case, is glycerol. The product has not only a laxative, but also a dermatoprotective and dehydrating effect. Doctors usually prescribe two suppositories twenty minutes after breakfast. Treatment is stopped after intestinal function has returned to normal.
• Microlax. Used to combat constipation in newborns. Microlax is used in the form of microenemas. This is a combination product that contains three active ingredients. Sodium citrate is necessary to dissolve hardened stool. Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate is a coating agent that prevents caking. Sorbitol enhances the therapeutic effect of the first two substances and facilitates the evacuation of feces.
• Duphalac. This is a lactulose-based laxative. Duphalac eliminates constipation by stimulating peristalsis and influencing the consistency of stool. Among other things, Duphalac is also a probiotic that stimulates the production of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and suppresses the growth of pathogenic microflora. The drug is used internally. The syrup can be consumed undiluted or diluted with water. Use the product once a day, preferably at the same time.
• Portalak. This is another lactulose-based laxative. Portalac normalizes the consistency of stool and promotes its rapid elimination. It is taken orally with food or immediately after breakfast. Portalac is prescribed even to children under one year old. Along with this, patients should drink plenty of natural water.

Glycerin suppositories can be used even for constipation in infants

What to do if you have constipation after antibiotics?

In order to suppress the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, drugs of plant or animal origin are used. After taking such antibiotics, most patients begin to feel unpleasant symptoms in the abdominal area. Pain in the intestines appears, which is caused by constipation.

Antibiotics are used in therapeutic departments to eliminate diseases. But they greatly affect the activity of the intestines and lead to a malfunction of its functions. Constipation after taking antibiotics is a negative consequence after a cured disease. This destroys beneficial bacteria. There is a disruption in the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Patients begin to develop dysbiosis.

Complete or partial lack of appetite;

• Belching;
• Feeling sick or vomiting;
• Metallic taste;
• Increased gas formation;

The effect on the colon directly depends on which subgroup the drugs belong to.

1. Tetracyclines affect the upper layer of the colon;
2. Aminopenicillins can provoke the growth of staphylococci;
3. Aminoglycosides influence the microflora of the body;
4. Fungicidal drugs affect the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms;

After the first dose of medication, intestinal dysfunction occurs. There is an increase in the number of intestinal fungi and yeasts. After a short period of time, and also after regular doses of medication, reproduction begins. Pathogenic microorganisms begin to penetrate from the intestinal walls into the blood. Thus, they manifest themselves throughout the patient’s body. They cause great harm to human health. They provoke a malfunction of organs.

Because of them, beneficial microorganisms that break down food and help in the functioning of the digestive tract begin to die. Therefore, after taking antibiotics, the patient experiences either diarrhea or constipation.

READ Baraklyud 1 mg: instructions for use, analogues and patient reviews

Treatment

Absolutely anyone can experience constipation after taking antibiotics. Not every patient knows what to do in this case. This unpleasant manifestation can be eliminated using traditional methods, special medications or diet.

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.

Possible side effects

If the rectal mucosa is hypersensitive, irritation may occur during the use of glycerin suppositories, which is accompanied by itching and a burning sensation. If such symptoms appear, use of suppositories should be stopped immediately. To soothe the mucous membrane, it is recommended to introduce about 15 mg of warm olive, peach or regular sunflower oil into the rectum.

Another side effect is that with long-term use of these suppositories, one may become accustomed to the effects of the drug, and, as a result, weaken the independent process of defecation.

Reviews

Angelina, 21 years old

In the 1st trimester I used glycerin suppositories several times for constipation, despite the fact that it is undesirable to do this. Fortunately, everything worked out, the stool improved and there were no problems with the pregnancy.

Serafima, 36 years old

In the 2nd trimester of pregnancy I used suppositories with glycerin for hemorrhoids. I spent about 10 days on treatment, and I was pleased with the result.

Irina, 25 years old

Glycerin suppositories do not help me with constipation during pregnancy. I used them several times in the 2nd trimester, then in the 3rd trimester, there was no effect. To normalize stool, I include a large amount of fresh vegetables and fruits in my diet, drink a lot of kefir and milk.

Glycerin suppositories for constipation and hemorrhoids can be considered the safest remedies for pregnant women. When rectal suppositories are used correctly, there is no threat to the fetus or woman.

At the same time, suppositories with glycerin increase the tone in the intestines, which is undesirable during the period of bearing a child. For this reason, if expectant mothers are prone to constipation, they need to reconsider their diet by including more fresh fruits and vegetables, start eating smaller meals, drink at least 1.5 liters of clean water per day and move as much as possible.

Is it safe to use

If the use of suppositories occurs strictly as prescribed by the doctor, then there can be no side effects or danger to the baby’s health. If parents independently decide to treat their child for constipation in this way, and do this for a long time, then negative side effects are possible in the form of:

• Allergies;
• Intestinal irritations;
• Decreased intestinal muscle motility;
• Inability to achieve the desired therapeutic effect when applied;
• Inflammation;
• Pain in the anus.

Etiology or causes

The causes of poor stool passage in a child’s intestines are classified into three main groups:

1. Mechanical – injuries, surgeries, birth defects;
2. Nutritional – complementary feeding, changes in diet and drinking regime;
3. Dyskinetic - weakening of the muscles of the intestinal walls, deterioration of the motility of the digestive organs.

Factors that can cause constipation are:

• Lack of fiber;
• Sedentary lifestyle of the child;
• Microflora disturbance;
• Infectious diseases;
• Other chronic diseases;
• Rickets;
• Unbalanced diet.

Often parents introduce complementary foods without certain rules and without taking into account the doctor’s recommendations. Eg. exclude juices, which are fast carbohydrates and help normalize stool. Or, on the contrary, they overdo it with fast carbohydrates, forgetting about proteins and vegetable fats.

To prevent problems from arising, the diet must be fully agreed with the pediatrician. It is also necessary to carry out a series of exercises and massage the tummy.

Table of normal bowel movements

Expert opinion

Tsareva Nadezhda

General practitioner, hepatologist, site expert

If your child's stool frequency differs from normal by one or two days, you should consult a doctor.

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.

Instructions for the use of glycerin suppositories for constipation in adults and pregnant women

The use of suppositories with glycerin in adults, pregnant women and children over 7 years of age follows the same scheme. The suppository is inserted into the patient's body rectally, 20 minutes after eating.

Preparation for using glycerin suppositories:

1. wash the perineum thoroughly with warm water and special intimate hygiene products;
2. wash your hands with soap, soak them in cold water or wear sterile gloves;
3. keep candles in the refrigerator (this will make them easier to use);
4. After removing the candle from its individual packaging, use a water-based lubricant or cool water to lubricate the tip.

When all preparations are completed correctly, you can proceed directly to introducing the suppository into the body:

1. lie on your left side, straightening and relaxing your left leg, and press your right leg to your chest, bent at the knee;
2. lift your right buttock to open your anus;
3. insert the candle into the anus to a depth of 2.5 to 5 cm;
4. squeeze your buttocks, while remaining in a lying position for at least 5 minutes to prevent the candle from “slipping out” of the anus;
5. the result will appear within 20-30 minutes (depending on individual tolerance to glycerin and the volume and amount of feces).

Stagnation of feces in the intestines is fraught not only with discomfort, but also with other complications (including intoxication of the body). Of course, this problem must be solved comprehensively: with diet, exercise, and not just medications. But in the fight against proctogenic constipation, modern medicine has not yet discovered a simpler and better remedy than glycerin suppositories. Use them wisely and be healthy!

Application for infants

Constipation occurs in any baby. With the right diet, constipation often appears on its own. The cause of constipation may be:

• Transitions from breast milk to formula;
• The baby had an infectious disease;
• During breastfeeding, constipation occurs when neither the woman nor the baby consumes vegetables and fruits;
• Irrational feeding or starvation of the baby;
• Sedentary lifestyle;
• If the intestinal flora is disturbed after premature birth;
• If the baby doesn't weigh enough.

If constipation is caused by breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor. It may be necessary to introduce fermented milk mixture, oatmeal infusions and foods that contain plant fiber.

Video

If the problem is accompanied by the baby being underweight, you need to plan a more complete and varied diet. You can do gymnastics - press your legs to your stomach.