A rectal suppository that relieves constipation quickly

Glycerol suppository

A rectal suppository that relieves constipation by softening the stool and gently stimulating the rectum, working quickly.

What is Glycerol suppository?

A glycerol suppository (also called a glycerin suppository) is a small medicine inserted into the back passage to relieve constipation. It works in two ways: it softens and lubricates the stool and gently stimulates the rectum to empty, and it usually works quite quickly, often within a short time. It is generally used for occasional constipation rather than regularly. The main drawback is local irritation, such as a stinging or warm feeling in the back passage. It is taken rectally, not by mouth.

Education and reference only. This is a plain-language guide to Glycerol suppository — it deliberately contains no doses. Doses depend on the person, the brand and the reason for treatment, and belong with your prescriber. Always check the BNF, the product labelling (SmPC) and follow medical advice.

Written by Meds Global Health Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Suffyan, MB BS, Founder & Clinical Director · Last reviewed · How we review
Class: Laxative (rectal suppository) → Brands: Glycerin suppositories
Glycerol suppository (Laxative (rectal suppository)) — Meds Global Health reference card
Glycerol suppository — Laxative (rectal suppository).

What it is

A glycerol suppository is a small, bullet-shaped medicine that is inserted into the back passage (rectum) to relieve constipation. Glycerol (also called glycerin) draws water into the stool to soften it and also acts as a mild irritant that encourages the rectum to empty. Because it acts directly where it is needed, it works faster than many laxatives taken by mouth. It is widely available and is generally used for occasional constipation, including in situations where a quick result is wanted, rather than as a long-term daily treatment.

How it works

Once inserted, the glycerol suppository melts and works directly in the rectum. It draws water into and around the stool, softening and lubricating it, and at the same time gently stimulates the wall of the rectum, prompting it to contract and empty. This combination of softening and stimulation is why it tends to work quickly, often within a short time of being inserted. Because it acts locally rather than passing through the whole digestive system, its effect is fast and limited to the lower bowel.

Company & origin

Originated / developed by: Various manufacturers.

A long-established rectal suppository used in the UK to relieve constipation quickly by softening stool and stimulating the rectum.

Practical use

How to take Glycerol suppository

General, dose-free guidance — always follow your prescriber's and the leaflet's specific instructions.

  • Insert it into the back passage, not by mouth, as directed; moistening it with a little water first can make it more comfortable.
  • Stay near a toilet afterwards, as it usually works quickly.
  • Use it for occasional constipation rather than every day.
  • Wash your hands before and after using it.
  • See a healthcare professional if constipation keeps coming back or there are warning signs such as bleeding or severe pain.

Weighing it up

Advantages & disadvantages of Glycerol suppository

Advantages

  • Works quickly to relieve constipation because it acts directly in the rectum.
  • Softens and lubricates the stool while gently stimulating the rectum to empty.
  • Widely available and useful for occasional constipation when a fast result is wanted.

Disadvantages

  • Can cause local irritation, such as a stinging or warm feeling in the back passage.
  • Has to be inserted rectally, which some people find unpleasant.
  • Meant for occasional use, not regular long-term treatment.

Practical use

Good to know

The most useful things to know about a glycerol suppository are practical. It is inserted into the back passage, not swallowed, and it usually works quickly, so it helps to be near a toilet after using it. It is best for occasional constipation rather than everyday use; relying on suppositories or laxatives regularly is not recommended, and ongoing constipation should be looked into. The main side effect is local irritation, such as a stinging, warm or uncomfortable feeling in the back passage, which is usually short-lived. Moistening the suppository with a little water before insertion can make it more comfortable. If constipation keeps coming back, or there are warning signs such as bleeding, severe pain or a change in bowel habit, these should be checked by a healthcare professional.

Who should not take it / use with caution

  • People who have had a serious allergic reaction to glycerol suppositories should not use them.
  • They are used with care, or avoided, where there is bleeding, severe pain or a known problem in the back passage, unless advised.
  • Persistent or unexplained constipation should be assessed rather than just treated with suppositories.

Monitoring

  • Reviewing whether constipation is relieved and whether ongoing treatment is needed.
  • Watching for warning signs such as bleeding, severe pain or a lasting change in bowel habit.
  • Considering the underlying cause if constipation keeps coming back.

Side effects

  • Local irritation, such as a stinging, warm or uncomfortable feeling in the back passage.
  • Cramping or a feeling of urgency in the lower bowel.
  • Rarely, more troublesome irritation, which should be mentioned if it persists.

Key interactions

  • There are few well-established medicine interactions, as it acts locally in the rectum.
  • If you use other rectal treatments, check the timing with your pharmacist.
  • Tell your pharmacist about regular constipation, as relying on laxatives needs review.

Available as: Suppositories inserted into the back passage.

Answers

Glycerol suppository: frequently asked questions

What is a glycerol suppository used for?

It is used to relieve constipation; inserted into the back passage, it softens the stool and gently stimulates the rectum to empty, usually working quickly.

How quickly does it work?

It usually works quite quickly, often within a short time of being inserted, so it helps to stay near a toilet afterwards.

Is it swallowed?

No, it is a suppository that is inserted into the back passage, not taken by mouth.

Does it sting?

It can cause local irritation, such as a stinging or warm feeling in the back passage, which is usually short-lived; moistening it before insertion can help.

Can I use it every day?

It is meant for occasional constipation rather than daily use; if constipation keeps coming back, it should be checked by a healthcare professional.

The wider class

About Laxative (rectal suppository)

Glycerol suppository belongs to the laxative (rectal suppository) class. For how the class as a whole works, its shared safety principles and monitoring, see the full guide.

LaxativesDifferent types for different problems — chosen by cause and stool consistency. BisacodylA stimulant laxative for short-term relief of constipation; it can cause tummy cramps and …DocusateA gentle stool-softener laxative that makes stools easier to pass; it works mildly and is …LactuloseAn osmotic laxative that softens stools by drawing water into the bowel; it takes a day or…Ispaghula huskA bulk-forming laxative (fibre) that must be taken with plenty of water; never take it jus…Sodium picosulfateA stimulant laxative, usually taken at night, for short-term constipation or to clear the …Magnesium hydroxideA gentle osmotic laxative that also works as an antacid, best known as milk of magnesia.…Glycerol suppositoriesA simple suppository inserted into the back passage to relieve constipation quickly.…SennaA stimulant laxative that encourages the bowel to move, used for short-term relief of cons…MacrogolAn osmotic laxative that draws water into the bowel to soften stool and relieve constipati…Arachis oil enemaA peanut (arachis) oil retention enema used rectally to soften hard, impacted stools so th…Co-danthramerA combination stimulant laxative used mainly for constipation in people receiving palliati…Co-danthrusateA combination stimulant laxative used mainly for constipation in people receiving palliati…ElobixibatA laxative for chronic constipation that works by increasing bile acids in the bowel to dr…Magnesium citrateAn osmotic laxative used for constipation and to clear the bowel before procedures, workin…MethylcelluloseA bulk-forming laxative that adds bulk to the stool to ease constipation, taken with plent…NaldemedineA once-daily tablet that treats constipation caused by opioid painkillers without reducing…NaloxegolA once-daily tablet for opioid-induced constipation that blocks opioids in the gut without…Phosphate enemaA phosphate rectal enema used for rapid relief of constipation and to clear the bowel befo…PlecanatideA daily tablet used for chronic constipation and constipation-type IBS in adults.…PrucaloprideA daily tablet used for chronic constipation when ordinary laxatives have not worked well …Sodium citrate enemaA small osmotic enema inserted into the back passage to relieve occasional constipation, w…SterculiaA bulk-forming laxative made from plant fibre that treats constipation and helps regulate …

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Authoritative sources

  • BNF
  • NICE CKS

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