Boots Haemorrhoid Relief Suppositories

Question 1

Why do the instructions for use in the PIL advise the patient to empty their bowels where possible before administering the suppository?

Answer 1

The medicine is a local anaesthetic, so it must be given time to absort before a bowel movement occurs. Therefore, if a bowel movement occurs right after the suppository is innitially administered, the medication will be excreted and not have enough time to act.

Question 2

Is this suppository made with a wax base or water-soluble base and how should the patient be advised to lubricate the suppository before insertion?

Answer 2

Wax based, so lubricate by warming the suppository slightly in your hand to melt a thin layer of the fat producing a lubricated surface for insertion

Question 3

Based on what you know about this type of formulation, why is it particularly important for this product to be stored at or below 25 degrees centigrade?

Answer 3

As it is wax based, the suppository could melt if stored at too high a temperature

Question 4

Describe the function of colloidal silicon dioxide in this formation and how it adds to the integrity of the product?

Answer 4

To increase viscosity, prevent sedimentation during moulding and decrease release rate

Question 5

When making suppositories extemporaneously why might we need to consider the displacement value of the drug?

Answer 5

Displacement values must be considered as the correct amount of the drug must be present but the suppository must still fit into the mould with as little waste as possible

Question 6

When making suppositories extemporaneously with a wax base, why is it important know when add the molten mixture to the mould?

Answer 6

If the liquid is too hot the drug will sink to the bottom and not be evenly incorporated, and if the liquid is too cold there will be air bubbles so the suppository won’t be a uniform shape