Type of medicine: hyperosmotic laxative
Generic and brand names: glycerin, rectal; Colace Glycerin Suppositories; Glycerin Suppositories; Fleet Liquid Glycerin Suppositories; Pedia-Lax; Sani-Supp (There may be other brand names for this medicine.)
This medicine is a laxative used in the rectum to relieve constipation. It comes as suppositories or as a liquid with a special applicator. You can buy these products without a prescription.
Before using this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
Females of childbearing age: Talk to your healthcare provider before using a laxative if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Check the label on the medicine for directions about your specific dose. Follow any directions your healthcare provider gives you or that come with the product.
This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not swallow the medicine.
Insert the suppository as far as possible into the rectum with gentle pressure. Adult suppositories are bullet-shaped, while those for children are long and slender. Suppositories should stay in the rectum for 15 to 30 minutes. The suppository does not need to melt completely to be effective.
If you have the liquid form, gently insert the tip of the applicator containing this medicine into the rectum. Squeeze the applicator to release the liquid, and then remove the applicator. It is normal for a small amount of the liquid to stay in the applicator.
This medicine will produce a bowel movement in 15 minutes to 1 hour after you use it.
If you or anyone else has intentionally taken too much of this medicine, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. If you pass out, have seizures, weakness or confusion, or have trouble breathing, call 911. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. The poison control center number is 800-222-1222.
Symptoms of an acute overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain.
Do not use this or any other laxative if you have abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting unless your healthcare provider approves. If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that continues for 2 weeks or longer, talk with your healthcare provider before using a laxative. Do not use laxatives for longer than 1 week unless your healthcare provider approves.
If you have rectal bleeding or cannot have a bowel movement after using a laxative, stop using this product and call your healthcare provider.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you are taking this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Bleeding from the rectum, severe abdominal pain, failure to have a bowel movement.
Other: Rectal or stomach discomfort, burning sensation.
No significant drug interactions have been reported.
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
You may store this medicine at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Keeping them refrigerated may make them easier to insert. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
