Administering A Laxative Suppository: A Step-By-Step Guide

Laxative suppositories are a form of medication inserted into the rectum to treat constipation. They are often used as an alternative to oral medication for those who cannot take pills by mouth. The suppository is usually narrowed at one end and is inserted pointed-end first. It is recommended to lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent towards your stomach when inserting the suppository. It is important to wash your hands before and after inserting the suppository and to avoid using petroleum jelly or mineral oil as this may affect the effectiveness of the product.

Wash your hands and remove the suppository's wrapping

Wash your hands with soap and water. If there is no soap and water available, use hand sanitiser. Dry your hands with a clean towel or a paper towel. This is important to prevent infection and to ensure you are starting with a clean base.

Next, remove the suppository from its packaging. Most laxative suppositories are wrapped in foil or plastic. You may need to carefully cut the suppository with a clean, single-edge razor blade if it is too big. If the suppository is too soft to insert, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it while it is still in its wrapper.

Once the suppository is unwrapped and at the right firmness, you can moisten the tip with a lubricating jelly like K-Y Jelly. If you do not have any lubricating jelly, you can apply a small amount of lukewarm water to your rectal area. Do not use petroleum jelly or mineral oil, as this may cause the suppository to be less effective.

Insert the suppository, pointed end first, into the rectum

To insert a laxative suppository, start by washing your hands with soap and water. If you don't have access to soap and water, use hand sanitiser. Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel.

Next, check the firmness of the suppository. If it is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or run cold water over it while it is still in the wrapper.

Remove your clothing to expose your buttocks. Take off the suppository's wrapping. If desired, moisten the tip of the suppository with a small amount of lukewarm water or lubricating jelly. Do not use petroleum jelly or mineral oil, as this may cause the product to be less effective.

Get into position. You can either stand with one foot on a chair, or lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent toward your stomach and your left leg straight. Relax your buttocks to make it easier to insert the suppository.

Now, gently insert the suppository, pointed end first, into the rectum. Push the suppository past the sphincter, which is the muscular opening of the rectum. For adults, insert it about 3 inches, or far enough so that it will not come out. For children, push it in about 2 inches, and for smaller children or infants, about half an inch.

Finally, sit or lie with your legs closed for a few minutes. If you are giving the suppository to a child, gently hold their buttocks closed.

Stay in position for 15-20 minutes

Staying in position for 15 to 20 minutes after inserting a laxative suppository is important for ensuring the medication is administered properly and effectively. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for staying in position during this time:

Choose a Comfortable Position

It is recommended to lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent toward your stomach and your left leg straight. This position allows for easy access to the rectum during self-administration and can also be comfortable for someone assisting you with the suppository. Alternatively, you can try kneeling, facing downwards with your hips lifted and your head towards the floor.

Relax Your Body

Try to relax your body, particularly your buttocks and legs, to make it easier for the suppository to stay in place. If you are administering the suppository to a child, you may need to gently hold their buttocks closed to prevent them from moving around too much.

Stay Still and Avoid Movement

It is important to remain as still as possible during the 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid any vigorous movement or exercise during this time, as it may cause the suppository to dislodge.

Stay Close to a Toilet

Laxative suppositories work quickly, usually within 15 to 60 minutes. Therefore, it is advisable to stay close to a toilet after inserting the suppository. The medication will stimulate your natural bowel movement, and you may feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement within this time frame.

Avoid Removing the Suppository

Unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional, there is no need to manually remove the suppository. It is designed to dissolve and be expelled from the body naturally during a bowel movement.

Do not remove the suppository after insertion

It is important to note that laxative suppositories do not need to be removed after insertion. The suppository is designed to dissolve and release its medication once inside the body. The suppository will melt due to the warmth of your body, slowly releasing the drug.

After inserting the suppository, it is recommended to stay in a lying-down position for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows enough time for the suppository to dissolve and start working effectively. Staying still also helps prevent the suppository from falling out. If you need to use the bathroom after inserting the suppository, try to wait for at least 60 minutes. This gives the medication sufficient time to enter your bloodstream and begin taking effect.

It is normal for some of the medication to leak out after insertion. This is not a cause for concern and does not require removing the suppository. To avoid any mess, you can use a pad or a similar absorbent product inside your underwear.

If you experience any irritation, burning, or itching in the rectal area after using the suppository, be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist. These side effects, while uncommon, can sometimes occur and should be addressed promptly.

Do not use laxatives for more than 7 days

To use a laxative suppository, it is important to follow the instructions on the package or as directed by a doctor. The suppository should be inserted rectally, with the pointed end going in first. It is recommended to lie on your left side with your right knee slightly bent and to stay in this position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible. It is normal to experience a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes after insertion.

While laxatives can be effective in treating constipation, it is important to use them with caution. Laxatives should not be used for more than seven days without consulting a doctor. Prolonged use of laxatives can lead to laxative dependence, where the body becomes unable to have a bowel movement without the use of laxatives. This can cause a loss of normal bowel function.

If you find yourself needing to use laxatives frequently or for an extended period, it is important to consult your doctor. They can help determine if there is an underlying medical condition causing your constipation and provide alternative treatments. Trying different laxatives without medical advice can be harmful and may mask a more serious issue.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of the side effects associated with laxative use. Common side effects include rectal irritation, burning, itching, mild abdominal discomfort, cramps, and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist. More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and blisters.

Laxatives should be used as a short-term solution, and it is recommended to make lifestyle changes to prevent constipation. Increasing your daily fibre and water intake, as well as regular exercise, are natural ways to improve constipation without the risks associated with long-term laxative use.

Frequently asked questions