Suppositories

Suppositories are solid dosage forms, typically cone-shaped, bullet-shaped, or torpedo-shaped, designed for insertion into the rectum, vagina, or urethra. They contain medication that dissolves or melts at body temperature, releasing the active drug for local or systemic effects. The base material is usually a fat-based substance like cocoa butter or a water-soluble substance like glycerinated gelatin or polyethylene glycol. The drug is incorporated into the base and administered for localized treatment (e.g., hemorrhoids, vaginal infections) or for systemic absorption when oral administration is not feasible (e.g., nausea, inability to swallow). Their slow release can provide sustained drug action.

Suppositories meaning with examples

• 1. Sarah, suffering from severe nausea, found it difficult to keep pills down. Her doctor prescribed antiemetic suppositories, providing quick relief by bypassing the stomach, allowing the medication to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the rectal lining, reducing the discomfort effectively. This treatment avoided her vomiting.
• 2. To combat a persistent vaginal yeast infection, the doctor recommended antifungal suppositories. These provided a localized treatment, delivering the medication directly to the affected area and promoting faster healing without affecting the rest of her body through systemic medication.
• 3. After a hemorrhoid flare-up, John used hemorrhoid suppositories containing a soothing agent. These provided immediate relief from pain and inflammation by coating the affected tissues and reducing irritation, making bowel movements more comfortable.
• 4. For a child unable to take oral medication for fever, the doctor suggested administering an antipyretic suppository. This alternative route ensured that the medication could be absorbed and bring down the fever even if the child was refusing medicine or vomiting.