Glycerol

Information about Glycerol

Glycerol uses

Glycerol is used in constipation.

How glycerol works

Glycerol works by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis, which makes the stool soft and easier to pass.

Common side effects of glycerol

Vomiting, Nausea, Diarrhea, Aspiration (regurgitation into the lungs), Local site irritation

Available Medicine for Glycerol

    Expert advice for Glycerol

    • Glycerol is used for the treatment of constipation.
    • It should preferably be taken at bedtime as it requires 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
    • It is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks. Take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
    • Some healthy tips to prevent constipation from happening:
      • Eat more fiber in your diet. Recommended daily intake is 20-35g
      • Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day
      • Exercise regularly at least 3 times per week
      • Do not hold in stool as that can worsen bowel issues
    • Take it atleast 2 hours after taking other medicines, as it may interfere with the absorption of other medicines.
    • Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach disorders such as appendicitis or a blockage in your bowel.

    Frequently asked questions for Glycerol

    Glycerol

    Q. Is glycerol an alcohol, carbohydrate, sugar, vegan, lipid, or amino acid?
    Glycerol can be classified as an alcohol, carbohydrate, sugar, or vegan but it does not contain lipid, or amino acid
    Q. Is glycerol and glycerin the same?
    Glycerol is the pure chemical product and its commercial product is called glycerin. Glycerin is needed to produce glycerol
    Q. Is glycerol polar, conduct electricity, soluble in water or oil, and has hydrogen bonding?
    Glycerol is polar, conducts electricity, soluble in water and has hydrogen bonding
    Show More
    Q. Does glycerol contain nitrogen?
    No, glycerol does not contain nitrogen
    Q. Does glycerol evaporate and freeze?
    Glycerol does not evaporate but it can freeze below 18°C
    Q. Can you take glycerol with paracetamol?
    Yes, you can take glycerol with paracetamol.

    Content on this page was last updated on 27 October, 2022, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)