Indications
Glycerine (glycerol) is used in several forms:
- Suppositories: for quick relief of occasional constipation in adults, children and infants.
- Skin products: to soften and moisturise dry, rough or cracked skin, lips and heels.
- It is also an ingredient in some cough syrups and mouth preparations.
How It Works
In the rectum, glycerine draws water into the stool and mildly irritates the bowel lining, which softens the stool and triggers a bowel movement, usually within 15 to 60 minutes. On the skin, it attracts and holds moisture in the outer layer of the skin.
Dosage and Administration
Suppositories: use the size made for the age group (infant, child or adult). Insert one suppository into the back passage when needed, usually no more than once a day. Remove the wrapper, moisten the tip with a little water, insert gently, and stay lying down for a few minutes. Do not swallow suppositories.
Skin: apply a thin layer to the dry area once or several times a day, or as directed on the pack. For very dry skin it can be mixed with water or rose water as the product describes.
Interactions
No important interactions with other medicines are known.
Contraindications
- Allergy to glycerine or any ingredient of the product.
- Suppositories: blocked bowel, unexplained stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, signs of appendicitis, or bleeding from the back passage.
Side Effects
Suppositories may cause mild burning or discomfort in the back passage and stomach cramps. Skin products rarely cause irritation.
Get urgent medical help for severe stomach pain, bleeding from the back passage, a swollen stomach with vomiting, or signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Suppositories and skin products are considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Suppositories are for occasional use; do not use regularly for a long time without medical advice.
- See a doctor if constipation lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or comes with weight loss or blood in the stool.
- For babies and young children, ask a doctor before using.
- Keep skin products away from the eyes.
Overdose
Overuse of suppositories can cause diarrhoea and cramps. If a child swallows a suppository or a large amount of liquid glycerine, it may cause stomach upset, headache or diarrhoea; seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Osmotic laxative (rectal) and emollient (skin softener).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Suppositories can soften in heat; if soft, cool them in the fridge for a few minutes before use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.