Dosing and uses of Glycerin
Adult dosage forms and strengths
suppositories
- 1.2g
- 2.1g
Constipation
2-3 g suppository, retain 15 min, PRN constipation Or
5-15 mL of rectal solution as an enema
Directions for liquid: insert stem with tip pointing toward navel, squeeze unit until empty, then remove
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
suppositories
- 1.2g
- 2.1g
Constipation
Neonate (<28 days)
- 0.5 mL/kg q12-24hr PR PRN as an enema
<6 years
- 1-1.7 g suppository, retain 15 min, PRN constipation OR
- 2-5 mL of rectal solution as an enema
≥6 years
- 2-3 g suppository, retain 15 min, PRN constipation OR
- 5-15 mL of rectal solution as an enema
Glycerin adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
Excessive bowel activity
Warnings
Contraindications
GI obstruction, severe impaction
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: not known whether excreted in breast milk; no risks shown to nursing infants
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Glycerin
Onset: 15-30 min
Mechanism of action
Hyperosmotic agent
