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.
The mechanism of action of suppositories with glycerin
The medication belongs to the group of laxatives with dehydrating and dermatoprotective effects.
The therapeutic effect occurs due to the action of the active component - glycerin, which softens fecal stones and facilitates their movement through the large intestine.
The substance irritates the mucous membrane, thereby activating intestinal motility.
After insertion into the rectum, glycerin suppositories quickly melt, so the laxative effect of their use occurs in 15-30 minutes or earlier, depending on the condition and personal characteristics of the body.
Constipation suppositories for children
According to statistics, every second child develops constipation. The reasons are related to the imperfection of the digestive system, to irregularities in the mother’s diet if she is breastfeeding, to improper introduction of complementary foods, and more.
When choosing a drug for constipation, you need to focus on safety. Although most often suppositories do not have a systemic effect on the body, they should be approved for use by children. Suppositories that are used to treat adults are not suitable for children.
If your baby often suffers from constipation, you need to contact a specialist and undergo treatment aimed at eliminating the cause of stool retention. Suppositories help eliminate constipation, but nothing more.
Microlax
Price: 200 rubles
Microlax suppositories act gently, the effect develops within 5-15 minutes after administration of the drug into the rectum. It has a high safety profile, so it can be used to treat children from birth. I have already written about them above.
Glycelax
Price: 120 rubles
The active ingredient is glycerin. The drug has an irritating effect on the intestinal mucosa, increasing its peristalsis. At the same time, the stool softens, making it easier for them to move toward the exit. The drug can be used for constipation, regardless of the reason that caused it. Use in children is permissible from 3 months [7].
Pros:
- Can be used from an early age.
- The list of side effects is minimal.
- The price is affordable.
Minuses:
- Increases blood glucose levels.
- Allergic reactions are possible.
- Do not use for longer than 7 days due to the progression of disturbances in the physiological process of defecation.
Sea buckthorn candles
Price: 160 rubles
The active component of the drug is sea buckthorn fruit oil. The main indication for the use of suppositories is the treatment of hemorrhoids, but they are often used as a means to combat constipation. They have a softening effect, promoting the act of defecation. Suppositories can be used from birth [8].
Pros:
- A safe drug based on herbal ingredients.
- Can be used from birth.
- The drug has an antioxidant and healing effect.
- Minimum list of side effects and contraindications.
Minuses:
- Allergic reactions are possible.
- Diarrhea may develop.
- The indications for use do not include constipation.
In what cases will glycerin suppositories help?
The instructions for glycerin suppositories contain a list of conditions for which they are prescribed. The main indication is difficult defecation or its absolute absence, caused by functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, old age/childhood, and psychological problems.
For preventive purposes, suppositories are prescribed to patients after surgical interventions and for pathologies that require the elimination of physical stress.
Including:
- anorectal abscess;
- anal fissures;
- hemorrhoids complicated by blood clots and pain;
- narrowing of the rectal lumen;
- suffered myocardial infarction.
Suppositories with glycerin can be used in preparation for rectal surgery, to prevent constipation after surgery, to avoid constipation after childbirth, and also before examining the rectum with instruments or x-rays.
Quick acting candles
If you need to quickly empty your bowels and get rid of constipation, use instant suppositories. They have the desired effect within a few minutes of administration. As a rule, the act of defecation occurs almost instantly.
Microlax
Price: 400 rubles
The active ingredients are sodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfate and sorbitol solution. The drug is presented in the form of a microenema, which is injected into the lumen of the rectum. Its use helps to liquefy stool and allow water to enter the intestines, which facilitates bowel movements. Microlax is prescribed for constipation, as well as before preparing for examination of the gastrointestinal tract [4].
Pros:
- Convenient and hygienic use.
- The combined composition quickly produces the desired effect. The action develops within 5-15 minutes.
- The only contraindication is individual intolerance to the components of the drug.
- Can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- There are no age restrictions.
Minuses:
- Adverse reactions such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and allergic reactions are possible.
- High price.
RectActive
Price: 320 rubles
The active ingredient is dry extract of horse chestnut fruit. Relief from constipation occurs thanks to the saponin escin, which affects the receptors of the intestinal mucosa. Under its influence, the walls of the organ begin to actively contract, stimulating bowel movements. Suppositories are used in the treatment of constipation of various etiologies, including those associated with jet lag, decreased physical activity, and senile constipation [5].
Pros:
- Herbal preparation.
- A quick effect that develops within 5-15 minutes after administration of the suppository.
- After defecation, the urge stops.
- The drug does not lead to stretching of the intestinal wall.
- A course of treatment allows you to restore the natural bowel movement reflex and normalizes stool.
- Can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but after consultation with a specialist.
- Candles can be used for 30 days.
- Minimal set of side effects.
Minuses:
- Contraindications include: intestinal obstruction, diseases of the abdominal organs, exacerbation of hemorrhoids, proctitis, spastic constipation.
- High price.
- There may be a burning sensation in the rectum, which quickly passes.
Contraindications for use, side effects
Glycerin suppositories for constipation are prohibited for use when:
- personal intolerance or hypersensitivity to glycerin or additional substances;
- diarrhea;
- irritable bowel syndrome;
- abdominal pain of unknown origin;
- intestinal obstruction;
- hemorrhoids in the acute phase;
- tumors, polyps and fissures in the rectum;
- inflammatory processes in the rectum (proctitis);
- acute inflammation of the appendix;
- bleeding in the rectum;
- pregnancy.
Under the supervision of a physician, they can be used for renal failure and during breastfeeding.
The use of suppositories with glycerin can cause:
- manifestations of allergies;
- discomfort in the anus (burning, itching);
- with frequent and prolonged use, the physiological process of bowel movement may weaken;
- in case of overdose – symptoms of irritable bowel (frequent loose stools).
How long does it take for constipation suppositories to work?
The effect of using suppositories for constipation develops at different times. This depends on the effect the active component has on the body, as well as on the composition of the suppository:
- After 5-10 minutes, Glycerin suppositories, RectActiv, Microlax begin to act. They should be used in a place where immediate defecation is possible.
- After 30 minutes, the effect of using Guttalax Express and Dulcolax suppositories develops.
- After 15-60 minutes, Bisacodyl suppositories begin to work.
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.
Candles during pregnancy
Suppositories for constipation for pregnant women are selected individually in each trimester, together with a specialist.
The main condition is a gentle effect on the intestines, since while the fetus is in the uterus, stress on the abdominal wall is excluded. The use of oral laxatives that stimulate intestinal filling with fluid is not recommended. Preference should be given to suppositories.
Suppositories that can be used to treat constipation during pregnancy: [9]
- Microlax.
- Sea buckthorn candles.
- RectActive.
- Dulcolax.
- Guttalax express.
- Glycerin suppositories.
- Bisacodyl.
How to use glycerin suppositories
The product is used rectally. After inserting the suppository into the rectum, it is advisable to lie down for at least 10 minutes so that the melted suppository does not leak out.
Application schemes:
- adult patients and children over 7 years old - one suppository with a dosage of 2.11 g once every 24 hours;
- children 3-7 years old - one suppository with a dosage of 1.24 g no more than once a day;
- children under 3 years old – half a candle with a dosage of 1.24 g once.
If these doses are ineffective, they can be doubled.
Instructions for use
Rectal suppositories must be inserted correctly. If you take a suppository and immediately insert it into the rectum, it will simply fall into its lower ampullary section, which is why the desired effect will not be achieved. This is why it is so important to administer rectal suppositories correctly.
Instructions:
- Release the suppository from the packaging.
- Lie on your left side with your knees bent. They should be brought to the stomach.
- Relax and with your right hand carefully insert the candle into the anus, but not entirely. It needs to be held in this position for about 30 seconds so that it melts a little under the influence of body temperature.
- Push the suppository completely into the rectum.
When performing the procedure, it is recommended to use gloves or a fingertip. If the candle was inserted with bare hands, they should be washed with soap.
special instructions
The drug is not recommended for regular use. The use of suppositories is stopped as soon as normal intestinal motility is restored. Before insertion, do not lubricate the anus or suppository with mineral oils, both solid and liquid.
For chronic hemorrhoids outside the acute phase, the medication is indicated for constipation lasting from two to three days. In the acute period, when there is bleeding and inflammation, the use of glycerin suppositories is prohibited.
After complicated childbirth, accompanied by the application of any types of sutures, in order to avoid violating their integrity when straining, suppositories are used in the absence of stool for a long time or for prevention, only after consultation with a doctor.
Rectal suppositories for fissures
Suppositories for anal fissures: belladonna extract
Now in pharmacies you can find a huge number of different remedies for anal fissure. To this day, the most effective are anal suppositories, which deliver medicinal substances directly to the site of injury and act quickly and effectively. They are easy to use, differ in price, composition and effect: healing, analgesic, antispasmodic. You can use the following candles:
- Relief. The most popular suppositories at the moment for hemorrhoids and anal fissure. They are very effective thanks to shark liver oil, which has healing properties. Suppositories actively heal, relieve inflammation, relieve pain, and strengthen blood vessels.
- Methyluracil. Methyluracil is considered an effective regeneration enhancer. Suppositories actively heal ruptures and wounds, stop bleeding, and relieve inflammation.
- Natalsid. Natalsid is suitable for the treatment of any anal bleeding: with hemorrhoids or fissure, as well as after surgery. It quickly stops bleeding, heals damaged tissue, and is absolutely safe even for pregnant women.
- Sea buckthorn candles. Suppositories with sea buckthorn oil relieve inflammation, heal wounds and destroy pathogenic microflora. Sea buckthorn also has a beneficial effect on blood vessels, relieves swelling and itching in the anus.
- Procto-glivenol. An effective remedy for hemorrhoids. Can also be used for cracks. The drug contains lidocaine, which has an analgesic effect. Relieves swelling, pain, strengthens vein walls.
- Posterized. Hydrocortisone, which is part of the drug, actively restores cells of damaged tissues, heals cracks, and also relieves itching and inflammation.
- Suppositories with propolis. Propolis is used to treat constipation, hemorrhoids, and anal fissure. It relieves pain and inflammation, heals and has virtually no side effects.
- Salofalk. Anti-inflammatory suppositories. Also used for ulcerative colitis. Prescribed by a doctor, self-administration is not recommended. Pregnancy is a contraindication.
Features of drug treatment of constipation in older people
Many people do not attach serious importance to the problem of difficult bowel movements and ignore it. This is the wrong decision. To choose medications that are effective in a particular case, you should consult a doctor so that he can diagnose and determine the cause of constipation, based on which a course of treatment will be prescribed. In addition to taking medications, therapy always includes adjustments to the lifestyle and nutrition of an elderly person. In some cases, doctors recommend physiotherapeutic procedures.
Up to contents
Non-drug therapy for constipation
First of all, it is worth emphasizing the importance of diet. Doctors recommend eating foods that contain a sufficient amount of fiber: vegetables and fruits (boiled, baked or fresh). You should also eat fermented milk products, lean fish and meat, rye bread, dried fruits, and whole grain cereals. It is advisable to cook food in portions and not chop it. You need to eat at least 4 times a day in small portions. The temperature of food and drinks should be 15–60 °C. You need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day.
In addition to following a diet, you should maintain physical activity. It is recommended to walk outdoors for at least 30 minutes every evening. In normal health, you can perform special gymnastics and also go to the pool. If the above recommendations do not help solve the problem of constipation, the doctor will prescribe medications that are suitable for the particular case.
Up to contents
Folk remedies for constipation for older people at home
Medicinal herbs are recommended to be used only after consultation with the attending physician. Infusions and decoctions made from plant materials have quite a few contraindications, so such products should be used with caution.
Remedies for constipation for older people at home, offered by traditional medicine:
- Compote of dried fruits, which must contain raisins, prunes, and dried apricots. They have a mild laxative effect. Directions for use: leave for 24 hours, drink 0.2 liters in the morning before meals.
- Boiled beet salad seasoned with vegetable oil stimulates contraction of the intestinal tube walls in older people. If gastritis is diagnosed, then the root vegetable should not be eaten.
- Fresh one-day fermented milk drinks - yogurt and kefir - in combination with vegetable oil. To prepare the medicine, you need to add one tablespoon of oil to 0.2 liters of drink.
- It is advisable to include bran in the daily diet of older people to relieve constipation. The recommended dosage is adding three to four tablespoons daily to first and second courses.
- Flax seeds are a good remedy for normalizing bowel movements. Method of preparing the drug: leave one and a half teaspoons of flax seeds poured with boiling water until mucus forms. You need to take half a glass of mucus only, excluding seeds, during the day.
- Elderberries are another folk remedy for constipation for the elderly. To prepare it, you need to boil the washed black elderberries together with sugar for 20 minutes in an enamel pan over low heat. For one liter of berries you need to add one glass of granulated sugar. It is recommended to take three tablespoons of the resulting product before meals in the morning and evening.
Many people have the impression that constipation medications for older people at home are preferable to medications. However, there are also restrictions on their use, so the use of traditional recipes also needs to be agreed with your doctor.
Medicines and traditional medicine for the treatment of constipation in older people have the following general contraindications:
- intestinal obstruction;
- gastrointestinal ulcer;
- intestinal bleeding.
Side effects of taking medications for constipation may include allergic reactions due to individual intolerance to the components, increased gas formation, diarrhea, and flatulence.
Constipation in older adults is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. This can be done by choosing the right medications. Moreover, treatment must be not only effective, but also safe.
We recommend
“Mattresses for the elderly: types, features, selection criteria” Read more
