Enema vs. Suppository — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on August 22, 2023
An enema introduces liquid into the rectum to cleanse or stimulate bowel movement; a suppository is a solid medication inserted into the rectum or vagina to dissolve.
Difference Between Enema and Suppository
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Enema and suppository are both tools for administering medication or facilitating bowel movements, but they serve different functions. An enema introduces a liquid solution into the rectum to stimulate a bowel movement or cleanse the colon. On the other hand, a suppository is a solid, often bullet-shaped medication designed to be inserted into the rectum or vagina where it will dissolve and be absorbed by the body.
While the enema focuses on introducing fluids for a swift response, often within minutes to an hour, a suppository might work at a slower rate, allowing the body to absorb the medication over time. Enemas often require a larger volume since they're meant to flush or clean the colon, while suppositories are small, being only the size needed to contain the medication.
The method of preparation and administration varies for both. Enemas often come in a kit with a bag or bottle filled with the liquid solution and a tube for administration. In contrast, suppositories usually come packaged individually, requiring no additional equipment for insertion.
While both enemas and suppositories are rectal administrations, suppositories can also be used vaginally, especially in women's health for conditions like yeast infections or to introduce specific medications. Enemas remain exclusive to rectal use.
Comparison Chart
Form
Liquid solution
Solid medication
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Purpose
Cleanse colon or stimulate bowel
Deliver medication; may stimulate bowel
Volume
Larger volume (for flushing)
Small, just enough for the medication
Administration
Via a bag/bottle and tube
Direct insertion; no extra equipment
Usage
Rectal only
Rectal or vaginal
Compare with Definitions
Enema
A procedure introducing liquid into the rectum to cleanse the colon.
The doctor recommended an enema to prepare for the colonoscopy.
Suppository
A means to provide localized treatment to rectal or vaginal areas
She used a suppository to treat her yeast infection.
Enema
A medical treatment to deliver medication via the rectum.
He was given an enema to treat his inflammatory bowel disease.
Suppository
A solid medication designed for rectal or vaginal insertion
The doctor prescribed a glycerin suppository for her constipation.
Enema
A solution used to stimulate a bowel movement.
She used a saline enema to alleviate her constipation.
Suppository
A bullet-shaped dose that dissolves once inserted
The pain-relief suppository began working within an hour.
Enema
The injection of liquid into the rectum through the anus for cleansing, for stimulating evacuation of the bowels, or for other therapeutic or diagnostic purposes.
Suppository
An alternative for those who can't take oral medications
Since he couldn't swallow pills, he was given a suppository.
Enema
A tool to flush out fecal impactions.
The nurse administered an enema to help with the impaction.
Suppository
(medicine) A medicine in the form of a small plug that is inserted into a bodily cavity, especially the rectum, vagina or urethra, where it melts at body temperature.
Enema
A device for administering such an injection.
Suppository
A small plug of medication designed for insertion into the rectum or vagina where it melts
Enema
An injection, or clyster, thrown into the rectum as a medicine, or to impart nourishment.
Suppository
A suppository is a dosage form used to deliver medications by insertion into a body orifice where it dissolves or melts to exert local or systemic effects. There are three types of suppositories, each to insert into a different sections: Rectal suppositories into the rectum, vaginal suppositories into the vagina, and urethral suppositories into the urethra of a male.
Enema
The fluid so injected.
Suppository
A tool to stimulate bowel movements
If the oral laxatives don't work, try a bisacodyl suppository.
Enema
An injection of fluid into the large intestine by way of the rectum, usually for medical purposes.
Suppository
A pill or bolus for introduction into the rectum; esp., a cylinder or cone of medicated cacao butter.
Enema
The fluid so injected.
Suppository
A small plug of medication designed to melt at body temperature within a body cavity other than the mouth, especially the rectum or vagina. Also called bougie.
Enema
Injection of a liquid through the anus to stimulate evacuation; sometimes used for diagnostic purposes
Enema
A method to introduce contrast for radiological studies.
Before her X-ray, she was given a barium enema.
Common Curiosities
How is an enema administered?
An enema is administered by introducing a liquid solution into the rectum via a tube attached to a bag or bottle.
Can suppositories be used for conditions other than constipation?
Yes, suppositories can deliver various medications for different conditions, including pain relief, and can be used both rectally and vaginally.
Is the enema process painful?
While enemas might cause discomfort or a sensation of fullness, they are generally not painful when administered correctly.
What is a suppository typically made of?
A suppository is typically made of a medicinal substance mixed with a binding agent that melts or dissolves at body temperature.
Are there side effects to using suppositories?
As with any medication, suppositories can have side effects. Common ones include irritation at the insertion site or allergic reactions to the medication or its binding agents.
Why might someone use a suppository instead of a pill?
Suppositories are beneficial for those who can't swallow pills, need localized treatment, or require a medication that might be destroyed in the digestive system.
What is the primary purpose of an enema?
An enema introduces a liquid solution into the rectum primarily to cleanse the colon or stimulate a bowel movement.
How often can one take enemas?
It's essential to follow medical advice, as frequent enemas can disrupt the natural balance of the intestines and lead to complications.
Can enemas be used for detox or weight loss?
While some people believe enemas detoxify the body or aid in weight loss, there's limited scientific evidence supporting these claims, and frequent use can be harmful.
Do suppositories work faster than oral medications?
Not necessarily. The absorption rate varies depending on the medication and the individual's physiology, but suppositories can offer more direct delivery to certain areas.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
