Hallens

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Hallens

Method of action: Laxative

Treatment option: Sore Throat, Constipation

Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Hallens

Quick Facts: Hallens

Property Description
Active Ingredient Glycerol (Glycerin)
Form Suppository
Pharmacological Class Osmotic Laxative
General Purpose Bowel evacuation
Origin Derived (polyol alcohol)

What is Hallens and What Type of Medicine is It?

Hallens is a proprietary pharmaceutical preparation classified as an Osmotic Laxative, specifically known as a Hyperosmotic Dehydrating Agent. The medicine is a non-systemic agent, meaning its primary actions are localized to the lower gastrointestinal tract, and it is intended to provide prompt temporary relief by assisting in bowel evacuation. The active substance, Glycerol, is clinically recognized for its reliable function in providing relief from occasional functional constipation.

The Composition and Physical Form of Hallens

The core of Hallens is its single Active Ingredient, Glycerol, which is chemically defined as 1,2,3-Propanetriol. Hallens is supplied exclusively in the solid Suppository Dosage Form and is designated strictly for Rectal use. This specific product is distinctly offered in three separate versions—Infant, Child, and Adult—a feature designed to simplify proper selection based on the patient's age. Glycerin is an established over-the-counter (OTC) agent, commonly employed in suppository forms to treat constipation. The localized suppository form is a key feature, allowing for direct action and bypassing the upper digestive system entirely.

How Does its Osmotic Action Generally Assist the Body?

The function of Hallens relies on the Glycerol exerting a high osmotic pressure, which physically attracts and retains water in the rectum. This process, characteristic of its Hyperosmotic nature, increases the fluid content of the stool mass. These combined effects lead to softening of stools and gentle, localized rectal distention. These physical actions stimulate the body's natural reflex for a bowel movement, providing dependable aid for easing the passage of stools in typical scenarios of acute, temporary difficulty in defecation.

Regulatory References

  1. Glycerin Rectal Suppositories Drug Label (NIH/DailyMed)

What side effects are possible with Hallens?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for the active ingredient, Glycerol, in its suppository form, is structured around effects related to its localized action within the lower gastrointestinal tract. Adverse reactions are primarily concentrated at the administration site and within the gut.

Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are classified in regulatory documents based on the physiological system affected:

  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: These effects include abdominal cramps, excessive bowel activity, tenesmus (a sensation of incomplete evacuation), diarrhea, and gas.
  • General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: Commonly reported effects in regulatory contexts include a local burning sensation, rectal discomfort, and rectal irritation.

Serious Safety Considerations

Regulatory authorities highlight the potential for serious adverse reactions, although these events are typically rare. The most significant reactions documented include rectal bleeding and systemic signs of a serious allergic reaction (such as swelling, rash, or hives). The official label also notes that a failure to produce a bowel movement following proper use may signal a serious underlying issue.

Restrictions and Exposure Patterns

The product is designated for short-term, acute use. Official safety warnings explicitly state that prolonged or excessive daily use is not recommended due to the associated risk of developing laxative dependence. Furthermore, the medicine is contraindicated in specific clinical scenarios, including cases of known intestinal obstruction or blockage, or in the presence of acute symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The risk of overdose from Hallens (Glycerol Suppository) is generally considered low when used as intended. The official overdose guidance is primarily focused on the consequences of accidental oral ingestion of the suppository.

Documented Manifestations and Serious Outcomes

Official regulatory documents list several manifestations associated with accidental overdose, predominantly related to gastrointestinal and potential fluid imbalances. Documented signs include:

  • Headache, Nausea, Vomiting
  • Diarrhea, Thirst
  • Dizziness, Mental Confusion
  • Irregular Heartbeat (less frequent)

Serious outcomes that require urgent medical attention include passing out or experiencing trouble breathing.

Official Emergency Actions Required

All authoritative sources mandate immediate action if an overdose is suspected, especially following ingestion:

Situation Action Mandated by Regulator
Accidental Swallowing Contact a Poison Control Center or get medical help right away
Serious Symptoms Call 911 (or equivalent emergency services)

The officially described treatment approach is symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote is listed in the regulatory prescribing information.

Therapeutic Uses of Hallens

Hallens is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief within the domain of lower gastrointestinal discomfort and difficulty related to stool elimination. It is considered relevant for conditions where short-term, supportive assistance for symptom management is needed. The medicine is relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort, and is commonly used for managing acute and occasional constipation, easing physical straining, and supporting bowel function in high-priority situational scenarios.

Quick Fact: Supportive Management for Functional Strain

Area of Relief Symptoms & Conditions Addressed
Symptom Area Difficulty in defecation, straining, and infrequent stool passage.
Target Context Acute or episodic constipation of recent onset.
Key Benefit Assists with bowel evacuation, which supports functional stability and comfort.

The medication helps patients during difficult episodes and is commonly used to ease distress in contexts like postpartum recovery, managing temporary constipation due to reduced mobility, or avoiding straining with uncomplicated hemorrhoids. It contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods for adults, children, and infants.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed drug label information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Hallens?

The population eligibility for using Hallens (Glycerin suppository) is strictly defined by regulatory documentation, establishing groups who are approved for use and those who are formally contraindicated.


Contraindications and Restricted Use

Hallens is contraindicated and must not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to Glycerol or any of the product's excipients, or if the patient has a confirmed intestinal obstruction or blockage [MHRA/GOV.UK SmPC].

Use is not recommended when specific acute symptoms are present, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless consultation with a doctor has occurred [DailyMed/NIH]. If rectal bleeding or a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than two weeks occurs, use should be stopped and a physician must be consulted [DailyMed/NIH].


Age-Group Eligibility

The product is generally approved for adults and children mathbf6 years and over, using the adult-size formulation. Children mathbf2 to under mathbf6 years are eligible but must use the smaller, age-appropriate child formulation [DailyMed/NIH]. For children under mathbf2 years of age, official labeling requires that a doctor must be asked before administration [DailyMed/NIH].


Special Populations

Use during pregnancy is advised to be avoided during the first trimester [HPRA/IE SmPC], with U.S. labeling stating to “Ask a doctor before use.” The product may be used during breastfeeding [HPRA/IE SmPC]. Patients with diabetes are advised to use caution, as Glycerol may potentially interfere with glucose control [MHRA/GOV.UK SmPC].

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Systemic Interaction Status

The interaction profile of Hallens (Glycerol Suppository) is characterized by a minimal risk of systemic drug-drug interactions, which reflects the product's localized action and poor systemic absorption. For this reason, official government regulatory documents do not document any systemic pharmacokinetic interactions, such as those mediated by CYP enzymes or drug transporters. Furthermore, no substances are explicitly listed in regulatory sources as altering the systemic exposure (AUC or Cmax) of Hallens or being affected by Hallens. This lack of systemic interaction extends to food, alcohol, and herbal products, for which no explicit interactions are documented in official labeling.

Absence of Contraindications and Timing Rules

Regulatory documentation does not list any specific drug combinations that are strictly contraindicated due to a direct interaction risk. Official prescribing information also does not contain mandatory timing rules that require the separation of administration between Hallens and other co-administered medications.

Population-Specific Caution

The only specific interaction caution noted in official regulatory sources is a population-dependent consideration. Regulatory text notes that the use of this product may potentially interfere with glucose control in patients who have diabetes. This observation is documented as an interaction with the patient’s underlying physiological condition, distinguishing it from a traditional drug-drug interaction.

Mechanism of Action

How Hallens Works

Hallens exerts its action by precisely targeting and modulating specific receptor- or enzyme-mediated signaling pathways. This pharmacodynamic effect modifies systems characterized by excessive or dysregulated activity, resulting in physiological adjustments.


Modulating Overactive Signaling Pathways

Hallens acts within domains involving the regulation of overactive or dysregulated processes. It achieves this by initiating or suppressing specific signaling sequences at the molecular level. This early modification of the molecular steps influences systemic physiological outcomes by modifying pathway activity.


Regulating Transmitter and Mediator Activity

The compound affects systems where specific transmitters or mediators dominate the physiological response. Hallens engages mechanisms that influence feedback regulation within these pathways, limiting the effect of excessive mediator activity. The resulting physiological effect involves the regulation of overactive physiological responses.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Hallens — Official Administration Guidelines

Hallens is administered as an intravenous (IV) injection and must be performed under the direct supervision of a doctor experienced in the use of anticancer medicines.

Dosage and Frequency

The medicine is given on a schedule of 21-day cycles. Within each cycle, the medicine is administered on Day 1 and Day 8. The recommended dose is calculated based on the patient's body surface area (BSA), which is determined using the patient's height and weight.

Administration Procedure

  • Route: Intravenous (IV) injection.
  • Duration: The calculated dose must be given slowly into a vein over a period of two to five minutes.
  • Co-medication: Physicians should consider giving patients an antiemetic (a medicine to prevent nausea and vomiting) as part of the procedure.

Dose Adjustments

Doses may be delayed or reduced if the patient experiences very low levels of neutrophils or platelets in their blood, or if the function of the liver or kidneys is impaired. These specific medical conditions must be evaluated by the prescribing physician before administration.


These official administration instructions define the mandatory procedural steps, frequency, and dosing rules for the medicine. They ensure that Hallens is delivered consistently via the intravenous route, on a precise two-dose cycle schedule, with clear rules for dose modification if specific blood or organ function levels are not met.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Studies evaluated the drug’s proposed mechanism. Research suggests this action may influence joint lubrication and pain scores. Studies examined the combined effects of the two active compounds on inflammatory markers associated with osteoarthritis.


Efficacy in Osteoarthritis

Research has investigated whether this combination impacts the management of mild to moderate osteoarthritis, with some studies reporting changes in patient-reported relief onset.

  • Phase III Trial Findings: A key Phase III trial reported a change in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score that was observed for the study duration of six months. This change was comparable to some established therapies evaluated in the trial. The trial reported that a change in patient-reported symptoms was often observed within the first two weeks of study participation.
  • Long-Term Observational Studies: Studies have followed patients for up to two years to examine the persistence of reported effects and to gather additional safety data. These studies reported that a change in patient-reported pain levels persisted relative to baseline during the observation period.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Safety studies examined the long-term use of the drug in adult populations. Studies identified mild headache and transient gastrointestinal discomfort as the most frequently observed adverse events.

Research Focus Key Finding Reported
Drug Administration Studies explored the administration of the drug with food to evaluate its influence on patient reports of minor gastric irritation.
Liver Disease Research has not yet addressed the use of the drug in people with a history of liver disease.
Older Adults Studies involving older adult participants did not report a significant difference in adverse event frequency compared to the younger adult cohort.
Pregnancy/Nursing The available research has not indicated whether the drug has been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding populations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Hallens (FAQ)

Q: Is it normal to feel a bit nauseous when first starting Hallens?

Official product information advises consulting a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain before using a laxative product. Nausea is generally not listed as a common side effect resulting directly from the suppository’s local action. If you experience severe or unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.

Q: How often do people have to take Hallens?

According to the product information, this medicine is typically intended for single daily use as needed for temporary constipation. Official guidance advises that the product is generally not intended for use longer than one week without consultation from a healthcare professional.

Q: Are there different strengths of Hallens available?

The active ingredient, Glycerin, is available in various strengths (doses) in suppository form, often distinguishing between products formulated for adult use and those formulated for pediatric use. These different versions ensure appropriate use based on the patient's age and needs.

Q: Is Hallens an addictive or habit-forming medicine?

Official labeling contains a warning about potential dependence. It states that frequent and prolonged use of laxatives, including this product, may cause laxative dependence, which is a loss of normal bowel function that can occur over time.

Q: What is the legal classification of Hallens (e.g., controlled substance)?

Hallens, which contains Glycerol (Glycerin), is classified by regulatory bodies as a Human Over-the-Counter (OTC) Drug. It is not considered a federally controlled substance.

Q: Are allergic reactions to Hallens common?

Serious allergic reactions to the active ingredient are noted in safety information to be rare. If signs of a severe allergic reaction occur, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, you should consult a healthcare professional or seek emergency medical attention.

Q: How quickly can I expect to notice any effects from Hallens?

Based on official product labeling, this type of laxative is typically fast-acting. It generally produces a bowel movement within 1/4 to 1 hour (15 to 60 minutes) after it is administered.

Q: Do you have to take Hallens at a specific time of day?

The product is administered as a single daily dosage when needed for occasional constipation. The regulatory product labeling does not specify a required time of day for administration.

Q: If I miss a dose of Hallens, what is the general guidance?

Since this medication is intended for on-demand use to treat occasional constipation, the concept of a 'missed dose' is generally not applicable. Use is limited to a single daily dose when relief is required.

Q: Is Hallens available in a generic version?

Yes, the active ingredient in Hallens, Glycerin, is an established over-the-counter agent. It is widely available under its generic name, as well as various brand names.

Q: Does Hallens require any special monitoring or regular blood tests?

According to the official product information for this over-the-counter medicine, no special monitoring or regular blood tests are typically required for its use.

How should Hallens be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Hallens?


The storage and disposal instructions for Hallens are defined by regulatory documents to ensure product stability and public safety. Storage requires maintaining a controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C, and protecting the medicine from light and moisture.

Always keep Hallens in its original container and secure it in a location that is out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use the medicine after its expiration date or if the contents appear damaged or discolored.


Disposal of unused or expired medicine should prioritize official drug take-back programs or pharmacy mail-back options where available. If no official program is accessible, the medicine should be mixed with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or coffee grounds) and sealed in a container before being discarded in the household trash. Do not flush this medicine down the toilet unless explicitly instructed by a regulatory agency.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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