Suppository Ineffectiveness: What Next?

If a glycerin suppository doesn't work, it could be due to a variety of reasons, including dietary and lifestyle factors, underlying medical conditions, or interactions with other medications. It's important to note that glycerin suppositories are intended for short-term relief from constipation, and if constipation persists beyond three days, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Here are some possible reasons why a glycerin suppository may not be effective:

1. Diet and Lifestyle: Constipation can be caused by a poor diet, inadequate water intake, and lack of physical activity. Eating a healthy diet rich in fiber, drinking plenty of water, and engaging in regular gentle exercise can help maintain healthy bowel function.

2. Medical Conditions: Constipation may be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), appendicitis, or colon cancer. It is important to address these conditions with the help of a medical professional.

3. Medication Interactions: Laxatives, including glycerin suppositories, may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, heart medicines, and bone medicines. It is crucial to consult a doctor or pharmacist to ensure safe usage.

4. Individual Variations: The effectiveness of glycerin suppositories can vary among individuals. While they are generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects such as stomach cramps or irritation.

Try a different type of laxative, such as a stool softener or stimulant laxative

If a glycerin suppository doesn't work, you could try a different type of laxative, such as a stool softener or a stimulant laxative.

Stool softeners

Also called emollient laxatives, stool softeners cause fats and water to penetrate the stool, making it easier to pass through the digestive system. They typically take 12 to 72 hours to work. Examples include Colace (Docusate, Diocto).

Stimulant laxatives

These stimulate the lining of the intestine to help move the stool along. They provide quick relief but should only be used occasionally. Examples include Senokot, Correctol, and Bisacodyl (Dulcolax, Feen-a-Mint).

If you are still constipated after three days of using laxatives, you should consult your doctor.

Glycerin suppositories are typically used for short-term relief from constipation. They can be purchased without a prescription at pharmacies and other retail outlets. However, it is important to note that laxatives are generally intended for short-term use.

Consult a doctor, especially if constipation lasts for more than three days

If a glycerin suppository doesn't work, it's important to consult a doctor, especially if constipation lasts for more than three days. Constipation is a common issue, with over 20 million Americans experiencing it annually. While glycerin suppositories are a popular over-the-counter treatment, they should only be used for short-term relief. If constipation persists, it's crucial to seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying problems.

During your consultation, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you're currently taking. They may also inquire about your diet, fluid intake, physical activity, and toilet habits. It's important to provide honest and detailed information to help the doctor make an accurate assessment.

In some cases, the doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to address constipation. This could include increasing your fiber intake, drinking more water, or engaging in regular physical activity. They might also suggest trying different types of laxatives or enemas, but only under their supervision. It's important to note that laxatives are generally intended for short-term use and should not be used as a long-term solution without medical advice.

If you're experiencing severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting along with constipation, it's best to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition, and a doctor can help diagnose and treat the issue effectively. Remember, it's always better to be cautious when it comes to your health.

Lastly, if you're pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, it's crucial to consult your doctor before using any laxatives or suppositories. These situations require extra care and consideration to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

Review your diet, water intake, and physical activity levels

If a glycerin suppository doesn't work, it may be time to review your diet, water intake, and physical activity levels.

Firstly, it's important to eat enough fibre. Fibre draws fluid into the bowels, helping to soften stools so they can pass more easily. Good sources of fibre include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It's recommended to eat 25 to 35 grams of fibre per day. However, it's important to introduce fibre into your diet slowly, giving your body time to adjust.

Secondly, drinking plenty of water is crucial. Water helps to keep things moving in your digestive tract. Aim for around eight glasses of water per day.

Finally, increasing your physical activity levels can also help with constipation. Exercise improves your digestive processes and increases muscle contractions in your colon, helping to move stools more regularly. Even short amounts of activity, such as 10 to 15 minutes, can be beneficial.

If you make these changes and still don't see improvement, it's important to speak with your doctor. They can help identify any underlying causes and recommend further treatments.

Consider a prescription laxative if you have chronic constipation or a digestive condition

Glycerin suppositories are a common treatment for constipation, but they may not work for everyone. If you find yourself in this situation, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it is important to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions or medications that may be causing constipation. Consult a doctor to rule out any serious problems. Additionally, making lifestyle changes, such as increasing fibre and water intake, can help alleviate constipation.

If these initial steps do not provide relief, there are various prescription laxatives available that can be considered. These include:

Linaclotide (Linzess)

Linzess is a once-daily pill used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in adults. It helps to increase the frequency and completeness of bowel movements and relieve abdominal symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and bloating. It is important to note that Linzess may cause side effects such as diarrhoea, gas, and stomach pain.

Lubiprostone (Amitiza)

Amitiza is a prescription medication used to treat chronic constipation, including constipation caused by opioids. It is also used to treat IBS-C in women. The drug softens the stool by increasing the water content, making it easier to pass. Common side effects may include headache, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.

Plecanatide (Trulance)

Trulance is a daily tablet prescribed for people with CIC and IBS-C. It helps the body produce fluids in the intestines, aiding stool movement through the bowel. Diarrhoea is a possible side effect of this medication.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) (Golytely, Nulytely)

PEG is a powder that is mixed with water and consumed orally. It works by adding a significant amount of water to the colon, aiding bowel movements. Potential side effects include nausea, bloating, cramping, and vomiting.

Prucalopride (Motegrity)

Motegrity is a daily tablet that stimulates the colon to initiate stool movement through the bowel. It is specifically indicated for CIC. Common side effects may include headache, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, dizziness, and fatigue. Mood changes or behavioural alterations may also occur, and medical advice should be sought if these symptoms arise.

It is important to remember that laxatives, including prescription ones, should not be overused as they can lead to side effects such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and intestinal obstruction. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication and follow their advice on dosage and duration.

Try an enema, but only if you are severely constipated and other methods haven't worked

If a glycerin suppository doesn't work, you could try an enema, but only if you are severely constipated and other methods haven't worked. Enemas are rectal injections of fluid used to treat constipation and cleanse the colon. They have been used for hundreds of years to treat chronic constipation and are usually administered by a medical professional, but can also be self-administered at home.

There are two main types of enema: cleansing and retention. Cleansing enemas are water-based and are meant to be held in the rectum for a short time to flush the colon. Retention enemas are designed to be held in the bowel for an extended period, usually a minimum of 15 minutes, before being released.

Some common types of enema include:

• Water or saline enema: The least irritating option, water or saline enemas are primarily used to expand the colon and promote defecation.
• Epsom salt enema: Similar to a water or saline enema, but magnesium-rich Epsom salt is said to be more effective at relaxing bowel muscles and relieving constipation.
• Sodium phosphate enema: A common over-the-counter enema that works by irritating the rectum, causing it to expand and release waste.
• Lemon juice enema: Lemon juice mixed with warm, filtered water is said to balance the body's pH while cleansing the colon.
• Apple cider vinegar enema: Apple cider vinegar mixed with warm, filtered water is said to clear the bowel and have antiviral effects on the digestive system.
• Soap suds enema: Adding castile soap or another mild soap to water irritates the bowel, encouraging the rapid excretion of stool.
• Coffee enema: A mixture of brewed, caffeinated coffee and water thought to promote bile removal from the colon.
• Mineral oil enema: This type of enema lubricates waste inside the colon, sealing it with water, and promoting its removal.
• Probiotic enema: Mixing probiotics with water may cleanse the bowel while helping to colonize good gut bacteria.
• Herbal enema: Some people use herbs like garlic, catnip tea, or red raspberry leaf mixed with water to make herbal enemas with purported nutritional and anti-inflammatory benefits.

It is important to note that enemas can have side effects, such as disturbing your gut bacteria and affecting your body's electrolyte balance. They can also be dangerous if not used properly, so it is important to consult your healthcare provider before using one at home.

Frequently asked questions