Glycerin
Glycerin is a hyperosmotic laxative and local irritant that works by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool, and promoting a bowel movement, typically within 15 to 45 minutes. When applied topically, it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin to hydrate and protect the skin barrier.
Dosage by Body Weight
For rectal constipation relief: Adults and children 6 years and older may use one adult suppository (approx. 2-3g) rectally once daily as needed. Children aged 2 to under 6 years may use one pediatric/infant suppository (approx. 1-1.2g) rectally once daily as needed. For topical use: Apply thin layer to dry skin areas as needed. Do not use laxative suppositories for more than 1 week unless directed by a doctor.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid rectal suppository use in infants under 5 kg (typically under 2-3 months of age) unless specifically prescribed and supervised by a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g)
- Frequency
- Once daily as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure suppository is lubricated before insertion. Hold buttocks together for a few moments to assist retention.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g)
- Frequency
- Once daily as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Typically produces a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g to 1.2g)
- Frequency
- Once daily as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a physician.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1 Infant Suppository or 2.3 mL Pediatric Liquid Enema
- Frequency
- Once daily as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Suitable for children aged 2 to 6 years. Ensure child is well hydrated.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Avoid rectal suppository use in infants under 5 kg (typically under 2-3 months of age) unless specifically prescribed and supervised by a pediatrician. |
| 5-7 kg | 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g) | Once daily as needed | Ensure suppository is lubricated before insertion. Hold buttocks together for a few moments to assist retention. |
| 8-10 kg | 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g) | Once daily as needed | Typically produces a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes. |
| 11-15 kg | 1 Infant Suppository (approx. 1g to 1.2g) | Once daily as needed | Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a physician. |
| 16-20 kg | 1 Infant Suppository or 2.3 mL Pediatric Liquid Enema | Once daily as needed | Suitable for children aged 2 to 6 years. Ensure child is well hydrated. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used primarily as a hyperosmotic laxative for the relief of occasional constipation. It is also used topically as an emollient and humectant to treat dry, rough, or irritated skin, and ophthalmically to reduce intraocular pressure.
Generic Name
GlycerolBranded Drug Names
Glycerin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.