Using Fleet Glycerin Suppositories is easy, but following these steps helps ensure safety and comfort:
- Wash your hands before and after use.
- Remove the suppository from the foil wrapper.
- If it feels too soft, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to make it firmer.
- Lie on your left side with your right knee bent toward your chest (or follow any comfortable position that lets you insert the suppository easily).
- Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed end first, using your finger. Push it in about 1 inch.
- Remain lying down for a few minutes to help the medicine stay in place.
- You should feel the urge to go to the bathroom within 15 to 60 minutes.
Use the suppository once per day as needed, but not for more than a few days in a row without medical advice.
Fleet Glycerin Suppositories work in two simple ways:
- Soften the stool: Glycerin attracts water into the intestines. This helps soften hard stool and makes it easier to pass.
- Stimulate the bowel: The presence of the suppository in the rectum gently causes the bowel muscles to move, helping push the stool out.
Because the medicine works directly in the lower part of the intestine, it acts quickly and usually brings relief within a few minutes to an hour.
Fleet Glycerin Suppositories are generally safe, but some side effects can happen, especially if they are overused.
Common Side Effects:
- Mild rectal discomfort or burning
- Feeling of urgency (needing to go quickly)
- Mild cramping
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
- Rectal bleeding
- Severe irritation
- No bowel movement even after use
If you experience any unusual pain, bleeding, or if you do not have a bowel movement after using the suppository, stop using it and contact a healthcare provider.
Before using Fleet Glycerin Suppositories, keep these precautions in mind:
- Do not use if you are allergic to glycerin or any ingredients in the product.
- Do not use if you have rectal bleeding or signs of a serious digestive problem (like blockage or sharp pain).
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should talk to a doctor before use.
- If you are already using other laxatives, speak to your doctor to avoid overuse.
- Do not use for more than 7 days in a row unless told by a healthcare provider.
- Children under 6 should use the children’s version only, under medical advice.
Using suppositories too often can make your body depend on them, so it’s best to use them only when needed.
Fleet Glycerin Suppositories usually have very few or no interactions because they are not absorbed into the bloodstream in large amounts. However, if you are taking other laxatives or medicines for constipation, ask your doctor first.
Let your doctor know if you are:
- Using other stool softeners or laxatives
- Taking medicines that affect the bowel (like opioids)
- On a special diet or fluid restriction (especially for heart or kidney problems)
- For adults and children over 6 years, use 1 suppository once daily as needed.
- Do not use more than one per day.
- If you miss a dose, just wait until the next time you need it — do not double up.
- Store the suppositories at room temperature, and keep them away from heat or moisture.
If constipation continues after a few days of use, it’s important to talk to a doctor instead of continuing the treatment on your own.
Fleet Glycerin Suppositories are an over-the-counter medicine, which means:
- No prescription is needed to buy them.
- They are available in most pharmacies, grocery stores, and online.
- You can use them safely on your own for occasional constipation.
However, even though a prescription is not required, it is best to talk to your doctor if:
- You have chronic constipation (lasting more than a few days)
- You are using the product often
- You have health conditions such as heart disease, kidney problems, or bowel issues
Using any laxative long-term without knowing the cause of constipation can be risky.