At Soin-et-Nature, your ARS-approved online pharmacy, discover a carefully curated selection of rectal laxatives designed to work quickly and gently. Suppositories, gels, or enemas: practical solutions to relieve severe constipation, soothe discomfort, and safely restore a feeling of complete bowel movement.
More detailsRectal laxatives(also known as contact laxatives) arerecommended as a first-line treatment for constipation of rectal origin(or distal constipation, which manifests as a sensation of anal obstruction,incomplete bowel movement, and the need to strain). These laxatives induce stool expulsion by causing the rectum to contract. They should not be used for extended periods, as they may interfere with the normal rectal contraction reflex that facilitates bowel movements.
Your rectal laxatives are available at your pharmacy authorized to sell online.
Rectal laxatives (Eductyl, Glycerin Suppositories, Microlax) contain glycerin or sodium bicarbonate. With a 5- to 15-minute onset of action to relieve constipation, they are considered instant remedies. These laxatives are effective only in cases of terminal constipation, which causes a buildup of stool in the rectum. When taken over the long term, these laxatives can lead to a loss of the defecation reflex—that is, the natural urge that prompts a person to go to the bathroom to pass stool.
Microlax isa medication indicated for the symptomatic treatment of lower constipation, particularly rectal dyschezia. The Microlax line of medications is produced by Johnson & Johnson. It includes, in particular, rectal gels indicated for the treatment of temporary constipation. Whether you’re looking for a gentle and fast alternative to oral laxatives, relief from occasional constipation, or a simple way to add more fiber to your diet, there’s a product for you.
Rectal laxatives are widely used to treat constipation, whether for self-medication or by prescription. Dyschezia and certain continence disorders are the primary indications for rectal laxatives. Laxative suppositories or enemas may be administered.
Rectal laxatives available in France differ in their chemical composition and mechanism of action. They are classified according to their mechanism of action.
Osmotic effect
Microlax® is a rectal gel containing sorbitol and sodium lauryl sulfate. It is an osmotic laxative that takes effect in 5 to 20 minutes, according to its SPC (Summary of Product Characteristics).
Glycerol (also known as glycerin), in the form of suppositories or gel (such as Bébégel®, which can also be used by adults despite its name), takes effect in 5 to 30 minutes, according to its SPC (Vidal 2008); its action is likely due to a combination of osmotic, stimulant, and lubricating effects. It is the most commonly used active ingredient. Long-term repeated use is likely to disrupt the normal bowel reflex.
In some formulations, multiple active ingredients may be combined. This is the case with Rectopanbiline® rectal gel and Rectopanbiline® suppositories, which contain, in particular, bovine bile extract (which triggers the evacuation reflex) and glycerin.
Stimulant effect
Bisacodyl (Dulcolax®) is a stimulant laxative that takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes. This form is intended for adults only, at a dose of one suppository per day, taken half an hour before the desired time for bowel movement.
Normacol® enema consists of sodium phosphates in a hypertonic solution. According to its SPC, it is an “irritant” laxative that takes effect within 5 minutes; it is contraindicated in cases of fluid and electrolyte imbalances with sodium retention.
Gas release, CO₂
Eductyl® suppositories consist of potassium hydrogen tartrate and sodium bicarbonate, which release carbon dioxide in the moist environment of the rectum. According to their SPC, the volume of carbon dioxide released increases intrarectal pressure, which triggers the defecation reflex within a few minutes. They are well tolerated.
List of rectal laxatives:Bébégel, Cristal, Dulcolax suppository, Éductyl, Rectopanbiline Gel, Microlax, Norgalax, Normacol Enema, Rectopanbiline, Glycerin Suppositories
To relieve constipation, it’s best to:
| 1 | IF CONSTIPATION IS ACCOMPANIED BY BLOOD IN THE STOOLS. |
| 1 | If constipation is accompanied by persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. |
| 1 | If constipation is accompanied by an inability to pass gas and severe bloating. |
| 1 | If constipation is accompanied by a fever or chills. |
| 2 | If a bowel movement is accompanied by copious mucus (phlegm). |
| 2 | If the episode of constipation is unusual, occurs unexpectedly, and lasts longer than 48 to 72 hours. |
| 2 | If constipation and diarrhea alternate. |
| 2 | If the constipation began at the same time as starting a new medication. |
| 3 | If constipation occurs occasionally and is not accompanied by any concerning symptoms, such as while traveling. |
| 3 | If the constipation has already been evaluated and the doctor has recommended a course of action. |
| KEY |
| 1 See a doctor today. |
| 2 See a doctor within the next few days. |
| 3 You may self-treat. |
No medications will be shipped outside of France. Available for pickup only at the pharmacy in Perpignan (France).
Soin-et-Nature offers effective treatments to improve digestion and relieve gastrointestinal disorders.
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