Suppositories are a form of medication designed for insertion into a body cavity, such as the rectum, vagina, or urethra, where they dissolve or melt. These medications can deliver drugs for local effects, like treating hemorrhoids, or for systemic absorption into the bloodstream, for example, to relieve pain or fever. Suppositories offer an alternative for individuals unable to take oral medications, including young children, older adults, or those experiencing nausea and vomiting.
Do Suppositories Cause Diarrhea?
Suppositories generally do not cause diarrhea as a common side effect, except for those specifically formulated as laxatives. Laxative suppositories, such as those containing glycerin or bisacodyl, are designed to induce a bowel movement, which can sometimes result in loose stools. True diarrhea is characterized by frequent, watery stools and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
Non-laxative suppositories are not intended to cause bowel movements. However, their presence or active ingredients might lead to mild rectal irritation, creating an urge to defecate or causing discomfort. While this sensation might be mistaken for a diarrheal urge, it does not involve the systemic fluid imbalance or frequent, watery stools associated with true diarrhea.
Understanding Gastrointestinal Upset from Suppositories
Gastrointestinal upset from suppositories can occur for various reasons, including their intended action, individual sensitivities, or improper use. Laxative suppositories are the primary type that promotes bowel activity.
Glycerin suppositories are hyperosmotic laxatives that draw water into the intestines, softening stool and stimulating rectal muscles for a bowel movement, often within 15 to 60 minutes. Bisacodyl suppositories, a stimulant laxative, directly trigger intestinal muscle contractions, moving stool along the colon and increasing water for easier passage. These actions can lead to abdominal cramps or loose stools, which are the desired effect but may be perceived as diarrhea.
Beyond laxative effects, the suppository base or its active ingredients can irritate the rectal lining. This irritation might manifest as burning, discomfort, or an increased urge to defecate, even with non-laxative formulations.
Individual sensitivity also plays a role, as some people may react more strongly to specific ingredients or the physical presence of the suppository itself. Improper insertion technique or not retaining the suppository for the recommended duration can reduce its effectiveness and lead to discomfort or perceived side effects. These issues are localized and transient, but can contribute to gastrointestinal upset.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is important to seek medical advice if you experience persistent or severe diarrhea after using a suppository, especially if it lasts longer than a few days. Accompanying symptoms such as severe abdominal pain or cramping, rectal bleeding, or a lack of bowel movement after using a laxative suppository warrant prompt medical attention. Black or tarry stools, which can indicate bleeding in the digestive tract, also require immediate evaluation.
Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, decreased urination, or unusual weakness, are serious indicators requiring medical consultation. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help. Consult a healthcare professional if you are uncertain about your symptoms, if the suppository is not providing expected relief, or if you have underlying health conditions that might be affected by its use.