Asuppository is adosage form used to delivermedications by insertion into abody orifice (any opening in the body), where it dissolves or melts to exert local or systemic effects. There are three types of suppositories, each to insert into a different sections: rectal suppositories into therectum, vaginal suppositories into thevagina, and urethral suppositories into theurethra of a male.
Suppositories are ideal for infants, elderly individuals and post-operative patients, who are unable to swallow oral medications, and for individuals experiencing severe nausea and/or vomiting.[1][2][3]
Several different ingredients can be used to form the base of a suppository:cocoa butter or a similar substitute,polyethylene glycol,hydrogels, and glycerinatedgelatin. The type of material used depends on the type of suppository, the type of drug, and the conditions in which the suppository will be stored.[4]
In 1991, a study on suppository insertion inThe Lancet found that the "torpedo" shape helps the device to travel internally, increasing its efficacy.[5] The findings of this single study have been challenged as there is insufficient evidence on which to base clinical practice.[6] Rectal suppositories are intended for localized or systemic action to relieve pain, constipation, irritation, inflammation, nausea and vomiting, fever, migraines, allergies, and sedation.[7][8] If they cause inflammation, chronic use of suppositories may causerectal stricture,[9] but overall this is a safe method of drug delivery.[10]
Alprostadil pellets are urethral suppositories used for the treatment of severeerectile dysfunction (impotence). They are marketed under the nameMuse in the United States.[11] Its use has diminished since the development of oral impotence medications.
^Abd-El-Maeboud, K. H.; T. El-Naggar; E. M. M. El-Hawi; S. A. R. Mahmoud; S. Abd-El-Hay (28 September 1991). "Rectal suppository: commonsense and mode of insertion".The Lancet.338 (8770):798–800.doi:10.1016/0140-6736(91)90676-G.PMID1681170.S2CID23190075.
^Gupta, PJ (May 2007). "Suppositories in anal disorders: a review".European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences.11 (3):165–70.PMID17970232.
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