Administering Rectal Suppositories

Rectal suppositories are used to deliver various types of medication, including laxatives, sleep aids, tranquilizers, and even medications to relieve nausea and vomiting. Regardless of the type of medicine that they are delivering into the body, all rectal suppositories are inserted in the same way.

In extremely hot weather, a suppository may become too soft to handle properly. If this happens, place it in the refrigerator, in a glass of cool water, or under cold running water until it becomes firm. (A few minutes is usually sufficient.) Before inserting a suppository, remove any aluminum wrappings. Rubber finger coverings or disposable rubber gloves may be worn when inserting a suppository, but they are not necessary unless your fingernails are unusually long or sharp.

To insert a suppository, lie on your left side with your right knee bent. Push the suppository, pointed end first, into the rectum as far as is comfortable. You may quickly feel as if you want to have a bowel movement, but ignore that feeling and lie still for a few minutes. Delay trying to have a bowel movement for at least an hour. If you have trouble inserting a suppository or if the process is painful, coat the suppository with a thin layer of petroleum jelly or mineral oil.

Some manufacturers of suppositories used for hemorrhoids suggest that their product should be stored in the refrigerator. But don't assume that this is always the case. Ask your pharmacist for advice about proper storage.

Another option is to use medication in the form of throat lozenges, discs, or sprays. In the next section, learn how to properly use them and to avoid common mistakes such as chewing them or drinking fluids too soon afterward.