ACTION AND MECHANISM - [LAXATIVE]. Glycerol is a polyol derivative that acts as a laxative when administered rectally. Its effects are due to a dual mechanism of action: * Irritant effect on the rectal mucosa, without affecting the distal walls of the intestine. The local contraction of the rectal muscles quickly leads to the expulsion of feces. * Osmotic effect. Glycerol has a high hygroscopic capacity, causing water to pass into the intestinal lumen. The increased water content, along with the lubricating properties of sorbitol, softens the stool and facilitates its elimination. The effects take between 15-30 minutes and one hour to appear. SPECIAL WARNINGS - The cause of constipation should be diagnosed before treatment, ruling out the possibility of gastrointestinal tract obstructions or appendicitis. SENIORS No specific problems have been described in this age group, although the chronic use of laxatives in elderly patients can trigger phenomena of orthostatic hypotension, weakness and motor incoordination due to the loss of fluid and electrolytes. PATIENT ADVICE - This medicine should not be used by patients with intestinal obstructions. - If after 1 week of use, constipation does not improve, persists or worsens, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist. Before starting any treatment for constipation, lifestyle habits should be modified. It is recommended to drink plenty of water daily (more than two liters), consume adequate fiber, respond to the urge to defecate, and exercise. CONTRAINDICATIONS - Hypersensitivity to any component of the medication. - Situations in which gastrointestinal transit is difficult or impossible, such as intestinal obstruction, ileus, or fecal impaction. Due to the laxative effects of glycerol, the obstruction could worsen. - Abdominal pain of unknown origin. Treatment with a laxative should not be initiated in patients suffering from abdominal pain until the cause has been identified, as the laxative could mask the symptoms of a more serious condition. - Pathologies in which increasing intestinal peristalsis is dangerous, such as appendicitis or intestinal perforation. The use of laxatives in these patients could worsen the condition. PREGNANCY FDA Pregnancy Category C. Although rectally administered glycerol is poorly absorbed, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use of this medication is only acceptable when safer therapeutic alternatives are unavailable. PHARMACOKINETICS - Absorption: Glycerol is poorly absorbed when administered rectally, being almost completely eliminated during defecation. However, oral absorption is high. Peak plasma concentrations are reached after 60-90 minutes. - Distribution: Absorbed glycerol is widely distributed throughout the body, accumulating in muscle fat. - Metabolism: It is extensively metabolized in the liver (approximately 80% of the absorbed amount). - Elimination: Glycerol is primarily eliminated by hepatic metabolism. Approximately 20% of the absorbed amount appears unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life is 30-45 minutes. INDICATIONS - [CONSTIPATION]. Local symptomatic treatment of transient and occasional constipation. INTERACTIONS No drug interactions have been described. LACTATION Glycerol administered rectally is poorly absorbed, and it is unknown whether it is excreted in breast milk. There are no studies that determine the possible consequences for the infant, so although its use is accepted, extreme caution should be exercised. CHILDREN It is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age. GUIDELINES FOR PROPER ADMINISTRATION - Suppositories: It is recommended to harden the suppositories beforehand by placing them under cold running water for 30 seconds or in a glass of water for 10 seconds. The suppositories should be inserted deep into the anal opening. POSOLOGY - Adults, rectal: 1 suppository/24 h 1 application (adult rectal solution)/24 h. PRECAUTIONS - Symptoms of appendicitis, such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps. In patients with these symptoms, it is recommended to rule out appendicitis, and if diagnosed, a laxative should not be used. ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions to glycerol are generally mild and transient, and local in nature. - Digestive: Occasionally, irritation, burning, or anal itching may occur. OVERDOSE Symptoms: Prolonged use of this medication at high doses may lead to irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment: Treatment will be symptomatic. Discontinue use of the laxative. COMPOSITION GLYCEROL: 3.27 GRAMS