A suppository is a solid medication designed for insertion into a body cavity, most commonly the rectum, but also the vagina or urethra. It delivers medication directly for local or systemic effects, offering an alternative to oral administration when swallowing is unsuitable.
Suppository Action
Once inserted, the suppository’s base melts or dissolves due to body temperature, releasing the active medicinal ingredients. The medication is then absorbed into the bloodstream through the rich network of blood vessels at the insertion site. This method bypasses the digestive system, meaning the medication avoids degradation by stomach acids and enzymes. It also largely bypasses “first-pass metabolism” in the liver, which can reduce drug effectiveness.
Factors Influencing Speed
Several elements influence how quickly a suppository begins to work. The type of medication plays a role; water-soluble drugs might dissolve and absorb differently than fat-soluble ones. The suppository’s base material, such as cocoa butter or polyethylene glycol, also affects its melting or dissolving rate. Cocoa butter bases melt rapidly, while polyethylene glycol bases dissolve more slowly.
The condition of the insertion site can significantly impact absorption speed. For example, the presence of stool can hinder direct contact and delay absorption. Inflammation at the site might also alter blood flow and absorption rates. Individual physiological differences also lead to variations in onset time.
Typical Onset and Next Steps
The time a suppository takes to work varies depending on its purpose and the medication. Laxative suppositories, such as glycerin or bisacodyl, typically produce a bowel movement within 15 to 30 minutes. For pain relief or fever reduction, like with acetaminophen or diclofenac, effects are generally noticed within 15 to 60 minutes. Acetaminophen suppositories may reach maximum concentration around one hour after administration.
It is important to remain still for 10 to 15 minutes after insertion to allow the suppository to dissolve and the medication to be absorbed. If a suppository does not seem to be working within the expected timeframe, or if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional. Always follow the specific instructions provided with the product or by a doctor, as dosage and administration guidelines can vary. For certain conditions requiring regular use, like arthritis treated with diclofenac, the full therapeutic benefit may take up to two weeks of consistent application.