A laxative suppository is a small, solid, cone-shaped or bullet-shaped medication that is inserted into the rectum to help relieve constipation or promote bowel movements. The suppository is designed to melt or dissolve at body temperature, releasing the active ingredients that stimulate the bowels to move.
Here's how a laxative suppository works:
Insertion: The suppository is inserted into the rectum through the anus. It needs to be pushed far enough into the rectum so that it doesn't fall out when you stand up. Most suppositories have a rounded end that makes insertion easier.
Dissolution: Once inside the rectum, the suppository starts to dissolve due to the body's warmth. The heat causes the outer coating of the suppository to melt, allowing the active ingredients to be released.
Stimulation: The active ingredients in the suppository are usually some form of laxative, which can be in the form of irritating substances, lubricants, or stool softeners. These ingredients stimulate the nerves in the rectum, encouraging the muscles to contract and move the stool along the colon.
Bowel Movement: As the muscles in the colon contract, the stool is moved towards the rectum and eventually expelled from the body during a bowel movement.
Laxative suppositories can work relatively quickly, usually within 15 minutes to an hour after insertion, depending on the specific type and brand. They are typically used for short-term relief of constipation or to prepare for certain medical procedures, such as a colonoscopy.
It's important to use laxative suppositories as directed by a healthcare professional or according to the instructions on the product's packaging. Overuse of laxatives, including suppositories, can lead to dependency and other gastrointestinal issues, so they should only be used when necessary and under appropriate guidance. If you experience chronic or severe constipation, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and establish a suitable treatment plan.