All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Constipation suppositories for children
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
Suppositories for constipation for children are considered the most suitable means of solving problems with timely emptying of the colon.
Indications for the use of suppositories for constipation in children are functional constipation of various etiologies (atonic and spastic), as well as problems with defecation of a neurogenic nature (dyskinetic and reflex constipation).
According to the instructions, glycerin rectal suppositories, recommended as suppositories for constipation in newborns, can be used for children under two years of age only in exceptional cases - in the absence of bowel movements for two or more days. Rectal suppositories Glycelax are allowed to be used for children over three months of age.
Pharmacodynamics of suppositories for constipation for children
Glycerin suppositories, Glycerin and Glycelax suppositories, and Glycerol suppositories have the same active ingredient – glycerin or glycerol (trihydric alcohol 1,2,3-propanetriol). Glycerol suppositories contain gelatin instead of the auxiliary emulsifier sodium stearate (a sodium salt of stearic acid that dissolves well in water) and act identically.
When a suppository is inserted into the rectum, glycerin irritates its mucous membrane and causes reflex contractions; this initiates peristalsis and the process of defecation. In addition, due to its high hygroscopicity, glycerin promotes increased mucus formation, which softens the feces, and thus facilitates their removal.
The pharmacokinetics of suppositories for constipation for children - suppositories with glycerin, Glycerol suppositories, Glycerin suppositories - is not presented, since these drugs are used rectally, without entering the blood plasma and without having a systemic effect. The remains of the inserted suppository are excreted along with feces.
Method of administration and dosage
The suppository for constipation for children must be completely inserted through the anus into the rectum. This is done once a day, preferably in the morning - 15 minutes after the first meal. You cannot lubricate the suppository with any oil or baby cream, you can only moisten it with boiled water at room temperature.
Overdose with rectal use of glycerin suppositories, Glycelax and Glycerol suppositories may result in frequent stools of liquid consistency. The interaction of suppositories for constipation for children with other drugs has not been studied, since the drug is administered by insertion into the rectum and is not absorbed.
Storage conditions for suppositories for constipation for children: at a temperature not exceeding +25˚С.
Shelf life: three years from the date of manufacture indicated on the packaging.
Contraindications to the use of suppositories for constipation in children
Contraindications to the use of suppositories for constipation for children include inflammatory bowel pathologies, intestinal obstruction, anal fissures, acute abdominal pain, and increased body temperature.
[ 5 ]
Side effects of suppositories for constipation for children
The appearance of allergic irritation of the rectum, discomfort or burning in the anal area may occur in the case of repeated frequent use of suppositories for constipation. To relieve these symptoms, it is necessary to stop using suppositories and do a micro enema (volume no more than 15 ml) with oil - olive, peach or refined sunflower.
And in any case, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since systematic use of suppositories for constipation in children is unacceptable: this negatively affects the natural parasympathetic reflex of defecation and can disrupt the normal functioning of the internal sphincter of the rectum ampulla.
Reviews of suppositories for constipation for children
Most reviews of suppositories for constipation for children concern their effectiveness and safety of use. It should be noted that in the vast majority of cases, this remedy works, and mothers praise suppositories for constipation for children.
However, doctors warn that problems with defecation have a whole list of causes – from helminthic invasion and intestinal dysbacteriosis to congenital defects, which can only be eliminated surgically.
Suppositories for constipation for children are a local symptomatic remedy that helps to empty the intestines once, but they are not able to cure constipation, that is, eliminate its cause.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Constipation suppositories for children" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.