What does a suppository do?

Let’s face it, nobody likes putting things up their butt. But sometimes, we just have to do things that we don’t necessarily want to do in order to take care of ourselves. Enter the suppository – a small medication delivery device that is inserted into the rectum. In this article, we will explore what exactly a suppository does and why it might be necessary.

What Is a Suppository?

A suppository is essentially medication in solid form that can melt or dissolve when it reaches body temperature after being inserted into the rectum or vagina. This type of medication delivery bypasses the digestive system and liver, allowing for more direct absorption into the bloodstream.

Why Use a Suppository?

More Effective Delivery

When taken orally, some medications can be broken down by stomach acids before they are fully absorbed into your system. By using a suppository instead, you’re able to deliver medication directly where it needs to go without worrying about anything getting lost along the way.

Convenience

For people who have difficulty swallowing pills or who are nauseous or vomiting, using a suppository as an alternative delivery method might just save their life … well maybe not their life, but at least make taking medications easier!

Restricted Oral Intake

If someone has had surgery or other medical procedures done on their mouth (for example oral cancer), then they may not be able to use oral pain meds so instead doctors could prescribe them with analgesics such as morphine/vicodin combination analgesics, which would typically require an injection; oftentimes though patients aren’t keen on having constant needles jabbed here there and everywhere so even opioids like fentanyl may also come in posterior-localized forms such as suppositories.

Types of Suppositories

There are several types of suppositories available depending on its function including:

  • Rectal
  • Vaginal
  • Urethral

Each type is designed for a specific area of the body, but in this article we’re going to focus on rectal suppositories.

How to Use a Suppository

First things first, wash your hands! The last thing you want is to introduce any unwanted germs or bacteria into your rectum.

Next, remove the wrapping from the suppository and lie down in a comfortable position. (Pro tip: putting it in while standing can be challenging!)

Gently insert the pointed end of the suppository into your rectum until it’s about an inch inside. Once inserted, lay there comfortably for up to five minutes before getting up again as some may leak out if they’re not given enough time.

And voila – you’ve just delivered medication directly where it needs to go!

What Medications Are Available as Suppositories?

Many medications come in suppository form including:

  • Anti-nausea medications
  • Painkillers like opioids/anti-inflammatories
  • Laxatives
  • Hemorrhoid treatments

Possibly… but probably not too much. Most people report that using a suppository feels mildly uncomfortable at worst and only lasts for a few seconds.

In some cases though, especially if someone has very sensitive skin or if they’re dealing with hemorrhoids or other ailments that affect their rear end region frequently; inserting anything even remotely solid-ish might invoke shooting pains.. These ppl should talk w docs first about alternative delivery methods e.g., drip/drip irrigation aka enemas can typically reduce pain when overcoming constipation-related anal fissures like tears by smoothing bowel movement flow overall leading them relieve discomfort over time instead bringing more harsher pain upfront sometimes felt via quick acting nature both oral & transdermal administration.

At its core, a suppository is just another method of medication delivery that allows for more direct absorption into your bloodstream. It might not be the most fun thing to do, but in certain cases it can make all the difference when it comes to taking care of your health. If you think a suppository could be useful for you, talk to your doctor about whether or not it’s an option and which kind/type would suit best given individual conditions they may/maybe experiencing currently such as sensitive skin etc.

Remember: there is no shame in taking care of yourself – even if it means sticking something up your butt!

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