What is the best suppository for severe constipation?
James Stevens
Updated on March 01, 2026
Doctor-recommended glycerin works by attracting water into the stool to promote a bowel movement. The Fleet® Liquid Glycerin Suppository is inserted rectally, allowing it to act locally in the colon without having to go through the entire digestive system.
How long do you leave a suppository in for constipation?
Using your finger, gently insert the suppository well up into the rectum, pointed end first. After insertion, stay in position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.
How long does it take for suppositories to take effect?
Suppositories are usually effective in about 20 minutes (usual range 10 to 30 minutes). Rarely the laxative effect has been reported 45 minutes after administration. They should be unwrapped and inserted into the rectum pointed end first.
What happens after a suppository?
Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Adult rectal side effects severe stomach pain or cramping; rectal bleeding; or. no bowel movement within 1 hour after use.
What is the best position to poop when constipated?
Toilet positions To Relieve Constipation
- Lean forward when you are sitting on the toilet with your hands resting on your thighs.
- Make sure that your knees are bent and are higher than your hips (it may help to use a footstool if your toilet is high or you are not very tall)
How long do suppositories take to work for constipation?
When you use a suppository for relief of constipation, you will likely get a more prompt response than if you choose to use a laxative you take by mouth. It takes about twelve hours or more for an oral laxative to take effect, but it takes a rectal suppository only about an hour to give you relief.
Are there any risks in using suppositories for constipation?
And, as will all medications regardless of point of insertion, there is of course a risk of allergic reaction in using suppositories for constipation, although they are rare. Suppositories are not intended for the treatment of chronic constipation, and Mayo Clinic warns against using them for this purpose.
Should you use suppositories for colon clogs?
Not only can using suppositories for chronic colon clogs create reliance on the medication, it can also contribute to a digestive system breakdown, with decreases in function not uncommon. A better choice sans medication would be home remedies for constipation such as dried fruits or honey.
What is the difference between suppositories and lubricant suppositories?
Those that contain a bowel stimulant besides glycerin will work faster than a suppository that just contains glycerin. Some suppositories do not contain any type of stimulant but contain only a lubricant. A lubricant suppository will make it simpler to expel the stool but won’t work if the stool is extremely hard.