Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Enema, Rectal:
Fleet Liquid Glycerin Supp: 5.4 g/dose (7.5 mL)
Suppository, Rectal:
Pedia-Lax: 1 g (12 ea); 2.8 g (4 mL) [contains edetate disodium]
Sani-Supp Adult: 2 g (10 ea [DSC], 25 ea [DSC])
Sani-Supp Pediatric: 1.2 g (10 ea [DSC], 25 ea [DSC])
Generic: 1 g (12 ea, 25 ea); 2 g (12 ea, 24 ea, 25 ea, 50 ea)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Osmotic dehydrating agent which increases osmotic pressure; draws fluid into colon and thus stimulates evacuation
Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics
Absorption
Rectal: Poorly absorbed
Onset of Action
Constipation: Suppository: 15 to 30 minutes
Use: Labeled Indications
Constipation: Relief of occasional constipation.
Mouth/throat irritation: Temporary relief of minor discomfort and protection of irritated areas in sore mouth and sore throat.
Dosage and Administration
Dosing: Adult
Constipation: Rectal: One adult suppository once daily as needed or as directed
Mouth/throat irritation: Oral: Apply a one-inch strip directly to tongue and oral cavity as needed
Dosing: Geriatric
Refer to adult dosing.
Dosing: Pediatric
Fecal impaction, rapid disempaction: Limited data available: Rectal: Infants and Children <2 years: Suppository: 1 pediatric suppository once (Wyllie 2011)
Constipation: Rectal: Suppository:
Children 2 to 5 years: 1 pediatric suppository once daily as needed or as directed
Children ≥6 years and Adolescents: 1 adult suppository once daily as needed or as directed
Mouth/throat irritation: Oral: Oral gel: Children ≥2 years and Adolescents: Apply a 1-inch strip directly to tongue and oral cavity as needed
Administration
Oral: Apply gel to tongue and around inside and outside of tooth and gum surfaces; do not rinse out.
Rectal: Insert suppository high in the rectum and retain ~15 minutes; suppository does not need to melt to produce response
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect rectal products from heat.
Drug Interactions
Dichlorphenamide: Laxatives may enhance the hypokalemic effect of Dichlorphenamide. Monitor therapy
Adverse Reactions
Frequency not defined.
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal cramps, rectal irritation, tenesmus
Warnings/Precautions
Dosage forms specific issues:
- Oral products: For use as an oral demulcent; do not swallow excessive amounts.
- Rectal products: May cause rectal discomfort or a burning sensation.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Considerations
Glycerin suppositories are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy (Cullen, 2007; Wald, 2003).
Patient Education
What is this drug used for?
All rectal products:
- It is used to treat constipation.
All oral products:
- It is used to treat dry mouth.
Frequently reported side effects of this drug
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Passing gas
- Diarrhea
- Burning
- Rectal irritation
Other side effects of this drug: Talk with your doctor right away if you have any of these signs of:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Rectal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Signs of a significant reaction like wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
