What is a suppository?
A suppository is a small, solid capsule that is inserted into the rectum to relieve occasional constipation. The capsules contain medication to soften stool and help produce a bowel movement. Suppositories have a rounded or tapered tip that makes insertion easier and more comfortable.
How do suppositories work?
Stimulant suppositories release a medication that cause muscles in the intesttargetine to contract, which causes stool to evacuate the body. Non-stimulant suppositories work by forming carbon dioxide gas that gently pushes against the intesttargetinal wall to encourage a bowel movement.
How long does it take for a suppository to work?
The time it takes for a suppository to produce a bowel movement can vary from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of formula and how your body reacts to it. You should only use one suppository at any given time, and do not use more than one suppository within a 24 hour period.
What is an enema?
An enema is a liquid medication that is administered rectally to help clear feces from the lower part of the colon. Enemas are often used to treat constipation, but they can also be used to evacuate bowels prior to surgery or before a colonoscopy.
How does an enema work?
There are two main types of enemas, and each one works differently. The saline formula produces a bowel movement by increasing the water content in the intesttargetine. The bisacodyl formula creates a rythmic action within the intesttargetine, helping to eliminate feces. While both of these options are effective in relieving constipation, you should consult your physician to determine which type of enema to use.
How long does it take for an enema to work?
The process of an administering an enema usually takes about 5 minutes. You can begin to produce a bowel movement within 5 to 20 minutes after the enema is administered. Bowel evacuation itself can last between 30 to 60 minutes. You may produce more than one bowel movement after an enema, so it is recommended to stay near a toilet. Learn more about how to use an enema by visiting our medical blog.
Additional Information
Express Medical Supply offers discreet shipping right to your door for medical supplies such as suppositories and enemas. Both of these products are administered rectally to relieve constipation or to stimulate a bowel movement. However, these two products work differently. A suppository is a small plug that is soft but still solid. An enema is a liquid that is held inside of a small plastic container with a thin nozzle attachment. We carry two of the most popular constipation relief products, Fleet enemas and Magic Bullet suppositories, as well as several other brands.
Fleet is a leading brand name of at-home enemas. Each of these products comes in an easy to use squeeze bottle with a thin nozzle on the end. The tip of the nozzle is lubricated with petroleum jelly for comfortable insertion. An enema is a disposable, single-use product. Fleet enemas should not be used for more than three consecutive days. If you do not feel constipation relief within three days, be sure to stop using the enema and contact your doctor.
Express Medical Supply also carries Enemeez, which are enema laxatives packaged in a mini disposable tube. They contain docusate sodium, which stimulates nerve endings and softens stool. Enemeez Plus also contains benzocaine, which gently numbs the lower bowel and rectum. This formula is ideal for people with hemorrhoids, fissures, autonomic dysreflexia, or who experience pain during bowel movements. Enemeez and Enemeez Plus both work quickly, usually within 2-15 minutes.
A Magic Bullet suppository is made from a bisacodyl formula. This type of suppository works by stimulating the muscles in the colon and the wall of the small intesttargetine, which helps produce a bowel movement. Magic Bullets are water-soluble and do not contain hydrogenated vegetable oil. This allows the product to work quicker and provides reliable results. Magic Bullets can work as quickly as 15 minutes, so it is important to be prepare for a bowel movement shortly after insertion. Please see our blog for instructions on how to use a suppository.
A suppository inserter is a tool with a long handle and a hollow tube on the end that the suppository is placed into. It has an adjustable strap around the handle that allows you to safely and easily insert a suppository. The spring-loaded tip prevents the suppository from being expelled until it is fully inserted. Anyone can use this tool, but it is especially helpful for people with limited mobility or limited dexterity. It increases independence and makes inserting suppositories more comfortable.
