Tips for using Canasa for the first time

I realize I may seem 'soft' by posting/saying this, but I have a real aversion to rectal meds/enemas. I know this is something I'll likely need to overcome and have mentioned as much many times on this board. Looks like that time has come whether I like it or not, as a scope yesterday led my GI to prescribe Canasa suppositories.

I posted this in the thread where I discuss my scope, but I guess it kinda warrants a new topic:

Do I need to buy a lubricant? Should I be laying on my side for 5 minutes after inserting it? Will it be uncomfortable? Will I feel a need to have a BM? How soon can I expect it to start working?

^^LOL..always a chance of that!

sfc425..you're trying them..that's awesome! With ease of use, hopefully it'll graduate you to try the enemas...

I don't use them that often, but when I do...I wet the suppository a bit with warm water and then insert it. Don't melt it too much because it'll be too slippery to insert.
Water is best to me since the medication is what'll be coating the way in rather than lubrication.

Please remember you have one in if you have gas...you won't feel the melted stuff coming/slipping out.
At least, that's my experience.

Yes on getting them past the sphincter, then squeeze the sphincter to get it into place.

Keep us posted.

q

I find them really easily to slide right in there. You can put a dab of lube on the tip but I've never found it necessary. I like to insert them while I'm lying on my side but I guess that's just muscle memory from many, many retention enemas. They do tend to 'melt' in your hands so once you open it just stick it in, don't sit there pondering it or anything :-D

Like everyone said, they are easy and no real concerns, but...
I did not pay attention to having gas when I first used and had a nice grease spot on a favorite pair of pants.

Hey, you tried, and that's huge.

Maybe give it another go when you think you might be ready. Maybe try it laying on your left side?

Did you use lubrication? Maybe for you that will help it to slip in much easier...

Keep us posted...

q

When you pop it in, hold your finger there for a bit and relax your muscles.

I had issues too at first - more so with enemas. I had been using those for a few months before starting on Canasa so I would imagine that I would have had a similar experience as you.

My first few nights on the enemas it would take me 30 minutes or so just to get the nerve to go to the bathroom and take care of it. Eventually, it just becomes second nature. There are nights now where I can't even remember if I've used one or not so I'll have to check the waste basket for the empty wrapper.

I would just keep at it - it gets easier. And they really do seem to help.

Keep trying, has to get in there somehow. also i dont know what your insurance situation is but don't waste them they are EXPENSIVE!!!. i treat those things like a piece of gold. Now i buy from Canada and im saving about $450 doing so!

Did you try lube? I initially would lay on my left side similar to how I did the enemas.

I don't think it's a matter of relaxing the sphincter as much as it is a matter of NOT pushing back against the suppository. You should try it lying down instead of sitting on the toilet, so your perianal muscles aren't working to support your upper body.

If you can do some focused relaxation exercises and learn how to concentrate without being distracted by your anxieties maybe that will help you. You can get some training on this method from a psychologist, or probably even find resources online.

The discomfort of inserting a suppository is temporary. Once you get past the sphincter muscle it will not hurt. You might feel a little burn.

I find the enemas easier to use because I don't have to push as hard (the tip is tapered). I did have to use a suppository med when I had terrible morning sickness - the phenergan they gave me was a lifesaver and I couldn't take it orally (would have thrown it back up). I was very strongly motivated to be successful at the suppository and you should be, too.

and lube. and when you're inserting it, breathe a long slow breath out, not in...and especially don't hold your breath, that will tighten everything more.

I was going to suggest a sip of wine if it doesn't make you feel crappy...but an antispasmodic about an hour before doing it will help.

The uncomfortable feeling will pass as the inflammation goes down.

Failure isn't anything you should attach to your experience so far....and trying is HUGE!!

I won't go into my first experiences with tampons...but I was determined. My sister was on the other side of the door cheering me on and giving me directions...lol.

Keep us posted.

q

I wouldn't use it, but others do. try a glass of lukewarm water beside the bed...dip the tip (not the whole thing).
q

What did you do to overcome the problem, Michelejc?

On top of wanting to get better quick, I agree that it is a waste of money to keep trying and failing to get this medicine INSIDE OF ME ALREADY.