Glycerol suppository

Overview

Locally acting osmotic and mildly irritant suppository. Draws water into the rectum and triggers the defecation reflex. Highly effective for distal impaction.

Maximum Dose

1-2 suppositories PR as required.

Clinical Focus

Must be inserted into the rectum against the bowel wall (not buried in stool) to act effectively.

Bottom Line

Glycerol suppository is a simple, safe rectal osmotic laxative for acute constipation, but provides only local effect and is insufficient for chronic or opioid-induced constipation.

Brand Names

Glycerin Suppositories

Parenteral

Rectal suppositories: adult 2.8 g/4 g product and paediatric sizes. Use the age-appropriate product.

Prescribing & PBS

Over The Counter (OTC).

Primary

Acute relief of distal (rectal) constipation, bowel retraining in spinal cord injuries.

Clinical Place

First-line physical intervention on the ward when a patient hasn't opened bowels in days and oral agents are too slow.