Glycerin Rectal

Glycerin rectal is an over-the-counter (OTC) product used to treat occasional constipation.

Glycerin rectal is available under the following different brand names: Fleet Glycerin Suppositories, Fleet Liquid Glycerin Suppositories, Pedia-Lax Glycerin Suppositories, and Pedia-Lax Liquid Glycerin Suppositories.

Dosages of Glycerin Rectal:

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Suppository

• 1g (Pedia-Lax, generic)
• 2g (Fleet, generic)
• 2.8g (Pedia-Lax liquid)

Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:

Occasional Constipation

Suppository

• Adults and children over 6 years: 2-2.8 g suppository inserted in the rectum, retain for about 15 minutes as needed or as directed
• Children 2-6 years: 1g suppository, retain 15 minutes as needed for constipation
• Do not use laxative products for more than 1 week unless directed by a doctor

Side effects of glycerin rectal include:

• Burning sensation
• Cramping pain
• Rectal irritation
• The feeling of needing to have a bowel movement

This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist first.

• Glycerin Rectal has no listed severe interactions with other drugs.
• Glycerin Rectal has no listed serious interactions with other drugs.
• Glycerin Rectal has no listed moderate interactions with other drugs.
• Glycerin Rectal has no listed mild interactions with other drugs.

Warnings

• This medication contains Glycerin Rectal. Do not take this medication if you are allergic to Glycerin Rectal oral or any ingredients contained in this drug.

Contraindications

• Gastrointestinal obstruction, severe impaction

Effects of Drug Abuse

• No information available

Short-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Glycerin Rectal?"

Long-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Glycerin Rectal?"

Cautions

• Do not use when abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting present (unless directed by physician)
• Frequent or prolonged use of laxatives may result independence
• Rectal bleeding or failure to have bowel movement requires physician care
• Contact a physician before use if experience a sudden change in bowel habits that last more than 2 weeks
• Do not use for longer than 1 week

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Data is not available regarding the use of glycerin rectal during pregnancy.
• It is unknown if glycerin rectal passes into breast milk or how it affects a nursing infant. It is probably compatible with breastfeeding.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek the advice of a health professional before using over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.