Rectal administration of paracetamol: a comparison of a solution and suppositories in adult volunteers.

The pharmacokinetics and tolerability of two dosage forms for rectal administration of paracetamol were compared. A fatty suppository was compared with a solution of 60 mg/ml paracetamol. Both dosage forms were given as 1000 mg doses to 10 healthy adult volunteers. The solution produced peak plasma concentrations significantly faster (t (max)) than did the suppository. The peak concentration (C(max)) and the area under the curve (AUC(6)) were also significantly greater. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of the solution were superior to those of the suppository. No difference in irritation score was identified and no discomfort was reported.