Sample Collection: What impact do glycerol suppositories have on Microbiome Explorer test results?

Glycerol suppositories may influence results due to increased fluid in the colon.
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- Glycerol suppositories are a type of osmotic laxative which act to increase osmotic pressure, drawing fluid into the colon and stimulating evacuation.
- They can alter pH (towards neutrality), slightly lower elastase/zonulin, and sometimes cause mild mucosal irritation which may raise sIgA, calprotectin or lactoferrin.
- There is no direct impact on metagenomic or biomarker assays.
- It is recommended to wait 48–72 hours after use where possible. If unavoidable, record the use on the request form to help with interpretation of results, especially for stool consistency-related markers.
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​https://www.medicine.com/drug/glycerin/hcp

https://www.medicinenet.com/glycerin_rectal/article.htm

doi: 10.3389/fphar.2019.01196