ZETALAX BB 18 SUPPOSITORIES

Name
ZETALAX Glycerin Microenemas for Adults 6.75 g
ZETALAX Glycerin Microenemas for Children 2.25 g
Glycerol


What is it and what is it used for?
Glycerol, the active ingredient in this medicine, helps facilitate stool elimination. The laxative effect is achieved by glycerol's ability to soften stool and cause a mild local irritant that stimulates bowel movements.
This medicine is indicated for the symptomatic relief of occasional and transient constipation.
Talk to your doctor if you do not feel better or if you feel worse after a short time of treatment.


What you need to know before taking the medicine
Do not use ZETALAX Glycerin Microenemas if:
- are allergic to the active substance or to any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);
- have nausea or vomiting, a blockage or narrowing (stenosis) of the intestine, or any abdominal pain for which you do not know the cause;
- has pain and/or bleeding from the rectum (for example in case of hemorrhoids);
- is in a severe state of dehydration which manifests itself with a dry and sticky mouth, thirst, little urine, absent or scarce tears and dry skin.


Warnings and precautions
Laxatives should be used as infrequently as possible and for no more than 7 days; use for longer periods requires a doctor's prescription. During treatment, drink at least 6-8 glasses of water or other liquids to help soften the stool.
Laxative abuse can cause dependence (with the possible need to gradually increase the dosage), chronic constipation, and loss of normal intestinal function (intestinal atony). Furthermore, abuse may cause persistent diarrhea resulting in loss of water (dehydration), minerals, especially potassium (hypokalemia), and other essential nutrients. Mineral loss causes changes in blood ions (electrolytes), characterized by the following symptoms: thirst, vomiting, weakness, edema, bone pain (osteomalacia), and hypoalbuminemia. More serious side effects include heart and muscle dysfunction, especially when used concomitantly with certain heart medications (cardiac glycosides), drugs that increase urine output (diuretics), or corticosteroids.

Talk to your doctor before using ZETALAX Glycerin Microenemas:
- if he is elderly or not in good health;
- if the need for a laxative arises from a sudden change in previous bowel habits (frequency and characteristics of bowel movements) that lasts for more than two weeks;
- in children under 12 years of age.

If the use of the laxative fails to produce effects after a short period of treatment, consult your doctor.


Possible side effects
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Side effects of ZETALAX Glycerin Enemas usually affect the stomach and intestines (gastrointestinal tract). Tell your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:
- cramp-like pain (isolated or widespread in the abdomen);
- non-continuous abdominal pain (colic);
- diarrhea;
- redness with burning or pain (irritation) in the rectum.

Reporting of side effects
If you experience any side effects, including any not listed in this leaflet, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system at: https://www.aifa.gov.it/content/segnalazionireazioni-avverse .
By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.