For many, the usual and more commonly used medicine is usually in the form of tablets or capsules, often some syrup or drops are needed, but there are also medicines in the form of candles or suppositories, and sometimes this is the best choice to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect. This dosage form is worth keeping in mind even if you have to face problems with the availability of a more commonly used medication.
“The various medicinal forms and suppositories available in the pharmacy are really one of the least used. The most popular forms are, of course, tablets, capsules, syrups, injections or drops. However, the range of suppositories is wide and the effect is fast and effective, so it is worth finding out when exactly suppositories can be used,” says Ieva Virza, pharmacist of “Mēnes Aptiekas”.
What are suppositories used for?
The pharmacist indicates that suppositories are used both locally, for example, in the case of hemorrhoids or vaginal infections, and systemically, or for general effect – if there is an increased temperature, pain. There are also suppositories that can be used when it is necessary to increase immunity, as well as suppositories that are prescribed by a gynecologist for vaginal use to promote conception.
Topical suppositories
“When using a suppository locally (vaginally or rectally), not only the active substances of the medicine, but also auxiliary substances contained in the suppository, such as cocoa butter, lanolin, vegetable oils, have a positive effect on the mucous membrane, which soothes and restores the mucous membrane. The effect of the medicine is fast, because the medicine is injected into the place where there are complaints, discomfort or pain.
In this way, it is possible to introduce various substances into the body:
1) chemical green substances such as lidocaine, clotremazole, econazole, chlorhexidine and others;
2) extracts of plants – wolfberry, horse chestnut, chamomile, witch hazel, calendula, tea tree, aloe and others;
3) natural bacteria beneficial to the body (for the restoration of vaginal microflora), for example, various types of lactobacillus, various types of bifidobacterilum and lactic acid;
4) substances that support, restore, soothe the vaginal mucosa – hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, semi-synthetic glycerides, lecithin, sea buckthorn extract and other substances,” explains the pharmacist and adds that
topical suppositories are usually placed overnight.
Systemic suppositories
The active substances of suppositories intended for systemic effect work faster than drugs that are taken orally, because the active substances, being absorbed through the intestinal wall, immediately enter the general blood circulation of the body and the systemic action of the drug begins. The pharmacist of “Mēnes Aptiekas” states: “These are the most commonly used painkillers, anti-inflammatory, antipyretics, such as paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen. It is recommended to use these medicinal substances directly in the form of suppositories in cases where the intake and administration of other medicinal forms is difficult. This applies to infants, small children, seniors, bedridden patients. The form of suppositories ensures accurate intake of the drug dose, which is especially important if the patient does not want or cannot take the drug orally, for example, in case of vomiting, very high temperature, injury, convulsions.
It is important to observe the correct introduction of the suppository and then to remain in a supine position for a certain period of time. For an infant or small child, it is convenient to administer the suppository during sleep.”
The most important thing about suppositories for babies
Ieva Virza admits: “Parents of babies are usually aware that suppositories will be the first and better choice for a baby in case of fever, of course, if the child has reached 4-5 kilograms in weight. Popular syrups, according to the medicine instructions, can be given from the age of one month (if the child’s weight has reached 4-5 kg), but parents should assess the baby’s ability to swallow the medicine, so you could think about syrup if the child has reached at least three months of age.
However, it would be wiser to choose medicine in the form of a suppository, because this way the child receives a correct, precise dose of medicine.
Even for an older child, suppositories would be the best choice if, for example, the child is vomiting or has weakness due to a very high temperature. When the suppository is inserted, its action starts immediately and there is no need to worry about the medicine being vomited.
Regardless of the age of the drug user, when inserting a suppository of systemic action, at least half an hour should be in a supine position. During this time, the action of the medicine has already started and the active substances have entered the bloodstream. If any secretions also appear, they are formed by suppository excipients.
Always ask your pharmacist for the most suitable green form!”
The pharmacy company “Mēness aptieka” (JSC “Sentor Farm aptiekas”) has both small pharmacies in the regions, as well as pharmacies popular with customers in shopping centers and polyclinics. The company has pharmacies with doctorates alongside, 24-hour pharmacies and pharmacies with the function of making medicines. “Mēnes aptiekas” is also the brand of one of Riga’s oldest pharmacies – “Vecpilsētas aptieka”, which has been performing its functions for more than 200 years, as well as all known 24-hour pharmacies in Riga – “Kamelias Aptieka” and “Jaunaja Torņakalna Aptieka”. “Mēnes aptieka” has also created the possibility for remote pharmacist consultations and delivers pharmacy products (if necessary, also prescription drugs) to your home.
