GLYCEROL 4G SUPPOSITORIES - summary of medicine characteristics

1 NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

Glycerol 4g Suppositories

2 QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION

Each suppository contains 2800mg Glycerol

For full list of excipients , see 6.1.

3 PHARMACEUTICAL FORM

Amber coloured suppository, of nominal weight 4g intended for rectal administration.

4 CLINICAL PARTICULARS

4.1 Therapeutic indications

For occasional use as a stimulant laxative for the treatment of constipation.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

For rectal use.

Adults and the elderly

One 4g suppository, to aid insertion the suppository tip should be moistened with water before use. No reduction in adult dosage is necessary for elderly patients.

Infants and Children

Not recommended

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.

The product is contraindicated if there is intestinal obstruction or blockage.

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

The product is intended for occasional use only. Prolonged or excessive use of the product is not recommended as this may cause diarrhoea. Use of this product may interfere with glucose control in diabetic patients. If symptoms persist consult a doctor.

4.5. Interactions with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

None stated.

4.6. Pregnancy and lactation

No evidence of harmful affects available. However, best avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. May be used during breast feeding.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

None stated

4.8 Undesirable effects

Use of the product may occasionally cause abdominal cramps. Glycerol can cause irritation when given rectally.

4.9. Overdose

Overdosage via rectal route is unlikely. However, if ingested treat symptomatically.

PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

ATC code A06AX01

Glycerol is commonly classified as an osmotic laxative but may act additionally or alternatively by promoting peristalsis and evacuation of the lower bowel by virtue of a mild irritant effect. Glycerol suppositories possess also lubricating and faecal softening actions.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

Glycerol following rectal administration is poorly absorbed.

5.3. Preclinical safety data

No additional pre-clinical data of relevance to the prescriber.

6 PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS

6.1 List of excipients

Gelatin Purified Water

6.2. Incompatibilities

None stated

6.3. Shelf life

3 years (36 Months)

6.4. Special precautions for storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place

6.5 Nature and contents of container

Heat sealed cavities composed of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) coated with Polyvinylidene Chloride (PVDC) and laminated with polyethylene (PE), each containing 1× 4g suppository in strips of 6. The strips and a patient leaflet are packed into cardboard cartons. Pack size available: 12 × 4g.

6.6. Instructions for use, handling and disposal

Wash hands before opening individual packaging. The suppository is shaped for rectal insertion, ensure the tip of the suppository is inserted first. The tip should be moistened with a little cold water to aid insertion.

Martindale Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Bampton Road

Romford

RM3 8UG

8.