Stimulant suppository / lubricant

Glycerol

Glycerol (glycerin) is an osmotic agent used as a rectal suppository or enema for the short-term relief of constipation, and also has applications as an emollient and pharmaceutical excipient.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

When administered rectally it acts as a hyperosmotic and mild local irritant, drawing water into the bowel and stimulating rectal evacuation.

Prescribing in practice

It is intended for short-term relief of occasional constipation; persistent or recurrent symptoms warrant assessment for an underlying cause rather than continued laxative use.
Rectal preparations may cause local irritation or a burning sensation on administration.
Moistening the suppository before insertion can aid administration and patient comfort.

Monitoring

Routine laboratory monitoring is not required; review the response and reassess if constipation persists despite treatment.

Counselling the patient

This is for short-term relief; see your clinician if constipation continues or recurs.
Maintaining adequate fluid intake, fibre and activity helps prevent constipation.

Evidence & guidelines

Osmotic and stimulant laxatives are established options for the management of constipation in line with NICE guidance.

Reference: NICE CKS constipation; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways