Suppos

Suppos is not a standard formal term in pharmacology; it is sometimes used informally as a shorthand for suppository, a solid dosage form designed to be inserted into a body cavity to deliver medication locally or systemically. The proper term in medical literature is suppository.

Suppositories are usually cone- or oval-shaped masses made with a base material that remains solid at room temperature but melts or dissolves at body temperature to release the active ingredient. They are most commonly formulated for rectal administration, but vaginal and, less often, urethral forms exist. Rectal suppositories can provide systemic absorption when oral administration is impractical, such as in vomiting or in young children. Vaginal suppositories are used for local therapies (for example, antifungal or hormonal treatments) and, in some cases, for contraception.

Bases used in suppositories include fatty or lipid-based materials (such as cocoa butter) and water-soluble or water-miscible substances. The choice of base affects disintegration time, drug release, and patient comfort. The drug must be compatible with the base, stable under storage conditions, and deliver the desired dose within an appropriate time frame.

Administration typically involves inserting the suppository with the pointed end first using clean technique, then remaining in a position that helps retention. Onset and duration depend on the drug, route, and formulation. Common considerations include potential local irritation, variability in absorption with the rectal route, and reduced first-pass metabolism for some systemic medications.

Storage and handling guidelines vary by product but generally require keeping suppositories cool and protected from heat. Suppositories are one of several dosage forms available to accommodate patients who cannot take medications by mouth or who require localized treatment.