Glycerin suppositories are used to treat constipation and help cleanse the intestines. They act as an osmotic laxative, meaning they work by softening the stool by adding water to it. Glycerin acts as a local irritant, drawing moisture into the stool and stimulating bowel movements.
Glycerin also irritates the intestinal wall, stimulating it to expel waste quickly. This makes it a fast and effective solution for acute and sudden constipation.
Fortunately, glycerin is generally safe because it is not significantly absorbed by the body; rather, it acts topically, either on the skin to moisturize it or in the intestines to facilitate bowel movements.