How to Use Rectal

Suppositories Properly
1 5
Wash your hands Put on a finger cot or disposable glove,
thoroughly with if desired (available at a pharmacy).
soap and water.

6
Lubricate the
2 suppository tip
If the suppository with a water-
is soft, hold it soluble lubricant
under cool water such as K-Y Jelly,
or place it in a not petroleum
refrigerator for jelly (Vaseline). If you do not have this
a few minutes to lubricant, moisten your rectal area with
harden it before removing cool tap water.
the wrapper.

3 7
Remove the Lie on your side with your lower leg
wrapper, if straightened out and your upper leg
present. bent forward toward your stomach.

4
If you were told to use half of the
suppository, cut it lengthwise with a
clean, single-edge razor blade.

Copyright 2014, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modifi ed, or
distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.
How to Use Rectal
Suppositories Properly (continued)

8 11
Lift upper buttock Remain lying down for about 5 minutes to
to expose the avoid having the suppository come out.
rectal area.

9
Insert the suppository, pointed end
first, with your finger until it passes
the muscular sphincter of the rectum,
11
about 1/2 to 1 inch in infants and Discard used
1 inch in adults. (If not inserted past this materials and
sphincter, the suppository may pop out.) wash your hands
thoroughly.

Remember
• Follow directions carefully
• Do not miss doses
• Store suppositories in a cool place and
10 avoid melting; refrigerate them if so labeled
Hold buttocks together for a few • Store medications out of reach of
seconds. children

Copyright 2014, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modifi ed, or
distributed without the express prior written permission of the copyright holder. For permission, contact safemedication@ashp.org.