glycerin enema

Definition / meaning of glycerin enema

An enema solution containing 5% glycerin, a trihydroxy alcohol with osmotic laxative activity. Upon rectal administration, glycerin enema creates an osmotic gradient thereby attracting water into the rectum. This increases volume, increases peristalsis, stimulates evacuation, and relieves constipation.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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