Pharmaceutical Suppositories Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is a significant reason for using a rectal suppository?

To treat infections of the skin

To induce sleep in patients

To allow systemic absorption of medication (correct)

To reduce redness in the eyes

What is a common contraindication for the use of suppositories?

Allergic rhinitis

Mild headache

Severe rectal conditions (correct)

Mild fever

Which type of suppository is specifically designed for introduction into the nasal cavity?

Rectal suppository

Vaginal suppository

Nasal suppository (correct)

Ear cone

What is the typical weight of a rectal suppository intended for adults?

2g Signup and view all the answers

Vaginal suppositories are primarily used to treat which type of conditions?

Infections of the female genitourinary tract Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable characteristic of urethral suppositories intended for males?

They weigh 4g and are 100-150 mm long Signup and view all the answers

Before performing an endoscopic examination, what is a common preparation step?

Emptying the bowel Signup and view all the answers

Which shape is specifically characteristic of rectal suppositories?

Torpedo-shaped Signup and view all the answers

What is an indication that a patient should not use suppositories if they experience?

Severe hemorrhoids Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using polyethylene glycol in rectal tablets?

To provide lubricant properties and protect during storage Signup and view all the answers

Which method of suppository preparation is described as the oldest and simplest?

Hand rolling Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of the fusion method in suppository preparation?

It can be used with all types of suppositories Signup and view all the answers

What does cold compression moulding require before the drug and base are combined?

Grating the suppository base Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the process of forming a conical shape in hand rolling?

Rolling one end of the cylinder Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of the cold compression method?

It can only produce small amounts of suppositories at a time Signup and view all the answers

Which material is commonly used to control disintegration rates in suppositories?

Cetyl alcohol Signup and view all the answers

What is required during the fusion method immediately after mixing the drug with the melted base?

Pouring into molds Signup and view all the answers

Why is the fusion method preferred for heat labile medicaments?

It minimizes exposure to high temperatures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are filled in soft gelatin capsules used in suppositories?

Liquids, semisolids, and solids Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of using suppositories over oral medications?

They avoid first-pass metabolism. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using suppositories?

Can only be used for local effects. Signup and view all the answers

For which condition would the use of suppositories be indicated?

Acute Constipation. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main disadvantages associated with using suppositories?

They may cause embarrassment to patients. Signup and view all the answers

How do suppositories provide a faster onset of action compared to oral routes?

They are absorbed directly from the mucosa into venous circulation. Signup and view all the answers

Which group of patients may particularly benefit from suppositories?

Pediatric and geriatric patients. Signup and view all the answers

What factor can negatively impact the dissolution rate of suppositories?

Fluid content of the rectum. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a contraindication for the use of suppositories?

Diarrhea. Signup and view all the answers

What may occur if suppositories promote bowel evacuation?

Incomplete absorption of the medication. Signup and view all the answers

Suppositories are especially beneficial for drugs that are sensitive to what condition?

Gastric pH and enzymes. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Suppositories Definition

Solid dosage form inserted into body orifices, like the rectum, vagina, or urethra
Melt, soften, or dissolve in the body orifice for local or systemic effects

Suppository Advantages

Avoids first-pass metabolism
Alternative dosage form for drugs with low oral bioavailability
Suitable for drugs destroyed by portal circulation
Useful for nausea and vomiting
Effective for drugs with bad odor or taste
Systemic distribution suitable for unconscious patients
Administer drugs irritating to the stomach
Faster onset of action compared to oral administration
Direct local effect for rectal, vaginal, and urethral diseases
Accurate dosage form
Suitable for pediatric and geriatric patients with swallowing difficulties

Suppository Disadvantages

Embarrassing for patients
Rectum fluid content is lower than the small intestine, affecting dissolution rate
Not suitable for diarrhea
Requires storage at low temperatures
Irritating or excessive drug amounts may be unsuitable
Incomplete absorption due to bowel evacuation
Microbial flora in the rectum may degrade some drugs

Suppository Indications

Local Relief:
- Hemorrhoids
- Acute Constipation
- Rectal inflammation or ulcers
Systemic Absorption:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and pain
- Hormonal therapy
Before endoscopic examination
To evacuate the bowel before certain surgery

Suppository Contraindications

Severe rectal conditions (e.g., rectal bleeding or severe hemorrhoids)
Known hypersensitivity or allergy
Rectal surgery
Obstruction or severe stricture
Diarrhea
Chronic constipation requiring repetitive use
Paralytic ileus

Suppository Shapes

Shape and size must allow easy insertion and retention
Rectal Suppositories: Inserted in the rectum, weigh 1g for children and 2g for adults
Vaginal Suppositories: Inserted in the vagina, weigh 3-5g
Urethral Suppositories: Inserted in the urethra, weigh 2g for females and 4g for males
Nasal Suppositories: Inserted in the nasal cavity, weigh 1g
Ear Cones: Inserted in the ear, weigh 1g

Suppository Types

Tablet Suppositories: Compressed like regular tablets, used for rectal and vaginal purposes
Layered Suppositories: Contain different drugs in separate layers for compatibility issues
Coated Suppositories: Coated with materials like polyethylene glycol for protection
Capsule Suppositories: Soft gelatin capsules filled with liquids, semisolids, or solids

Suppository Preparation Methods

Hand Rolling: Oldest method, ideal for small production, requires skill and practice
Fusion Method: Common method involving melting, dispersing, and pouring into molds
Cold Compression Method: Ingredients are mixed, then compressed into molds using machines
Advantages of Cold Compression Method:*
Simple method
Produces elegant suppositories
Suitable for heat-labile medicaments
Disadvantages of Cold Compression Method:*
Requires specialized equipment
Not suitable for all bases

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Description

This quiz covers the definition, advantages, and disadvantages of suppositories as a dosage form in pharmaceuticals. It explores their usage in various medical scenarios and the unique benefits they offer for specific patient populations. Test your knowledge on this important topic in drug administration.