How Do I Choose the Best Suppository?

Suppositories are solid medications that are placed inside the body via the vagina, rectum or urethra. Once these drugs have been placed, the medication melts and is absorbed by the body. When looking to choose the best suppository, there are a few things to take into consideration. You will need to consider your doctor's opinion, the reason for using a suppository and whether you need a prescription to obtain the medicine.

No matter what type of ailment you are suffering, you should talk to your doctor before beginning to use suppositories. Even though some suppositories are sold over the counter, you want to make sure the suppositories you choose do not interact negatively with any medications you are already taking. Your doctor also can tell you if using a suppository is the best method for you to find relief for your health issue. It is possible that your doctor would rather you take an oral medication.

Rectal suppositories are among the most common type. These suppositories are used to relieve constipation. A variety of rectal suppositories can be purchased without prescription and are made of many different elements, ranging from glycerin to mineral oil. It is important to always have clean hands when you insert a rectal suppository. You also should follow the insertion instructions on the package exactly as stated to avoid a rectal injury.

Prescription vaginal diazepam suppositories are used as a treatment for women suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction, a painful muscle spasm condition. These suppositories are made at compounding pharmacies and can be inserted directly into the vagina at bedtime. The use of vaginal diazepam can help to relieve any symptoms you may have regarding frequent urination, pain with sitting or painful sex. Your doctor can teach you how to insert a vaginal diazepam suppository with your hands or provide you with an applicator.

If you suffer from frequent yeast infections, you may find yourself needing a different variety of vaginal suppository, one made of anti-fungal medication. Drugstores sell these suppositories over the counter with instructions and an applicator included. Yeast infections often mimic other vaginal infections so, if you are experiencing symptoms for the first time, you may want to see your gynecologist for a checkup and some prescription suppositories instead of just running to the store.

Erectile dysfunction can be treated with prescription suppositories. If you are a man who has not had success with oral erectile dysfunction medications, then you may want to talk to your doctor to see if this type of suppository is right for you. A urethral suppository is the size of a pellet and must be inserted very carefully with a small applicator to avoid injury and infection.