Glycerin or glycerol is an organic compound that is frequently used as an ingredient or excipient in a wide variety of medications. It is available as a clear, colorless liquid and in solid form as suppositories.
Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology
Glycerin or glycerol is an organic compound that is frequently used as an ingredient or excipient in a wide variety of medications. It is available as a clear, colorless liquid and in solid form as suppositories.
Topical: Some products need to be shaken before use. Check the label to see if you should shake the bottle well before using. Apply to the affected areas of the skin as needed or as directed on the label or by your doctor. How often you apply the medication will depend on the product and your skin condition. To treat dry hands, you may need to use the product every time you wash your hands, applying it throughout the day.
If you are using glycerin to help treat diaper rash, clean the diaper area well before use and allow the area to dry before applying the product.
If you are using glycerin to help treat radiation skin burns, check with radiation personnel to see if your brand can be applied before radiation therapy.
Suppositories: Wash your hands before and after using glycerin suppositories.
If the suppository is too soft to use, put it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or run cold water over it. Then remove the wrapper and moisten the suppository with cool water. Lie down on your side. Insert the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum, then use your finger to push it in completely.
This product is best stored in a cool place or refrigerator (8°C-15°C) away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer.
There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.
You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:
Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.
This medication is pregnancy risk category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:
Like all drugs, glycerin may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:
Potentially Fatal: Cardiac arrhythmias; circulatory overload, pulmonary edema and CHF.
However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects.
To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Adjunct in acute glaucoma
Initially, 1-1.8 g/kg orally as a 50% solution.
Short-term reduction of vitreous volume and intraocular pressure before and after ophthalmic surgery
Initially, 1-1.8 g/kg orally as a 50% solution.
Constipation
Insert one suppository, as needed.
Constipation
Insert one suppository, as needed.
Glycerin is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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