Lass

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Lass

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 Lass

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Glycerol (Glycerin, 1,2,3-Propanetriol)
Form Solution, Suppository, Liquid
Pharmacological class Osmotic Agent
Common use Fluid modulation, Softening of contents
Origin Naturally occurring alcohol (often synthetically purified)

Lass: An Overview of the Osmotic Agent

Lass is a specific medicinal preparation whose active ingredient is Glycerol, officially classified as an Osmotic Agent within its pharmacological grouping. This drug is fundamentally characterized as a single-ingredient formulation designed to influence fluid dynamics using a hyperosmolar mechanism.

The action of Lass is based on a well-established physical principle, distinguishing it from stimulant or bulk-forming agents, as Glycerol (1,2,3-Propanetriol) is a trihydric alcohol that creates a concentration gradient. This gradient causes it to act as a solute, effectively pulling water from areas of lower concentration (the surrounding tissues or the bloodstream) into the site of administration, which is the defining action of an osmotic medicine. Glycerol has a capacity to lower elevated pressures across biological membranes by creating this osmotic gradient. This mechanism is clinically recognized for facilitating gentle, non-stimulant movement of fluid.


Composition, Origin, and Available Forms

The active substance, Glycerol, is defined as a naturally occurring alcohol derived from plant or animal sources, although the substance used in pharmaceutical-grade preparations is often synthesized and purified to ensure high quality and consistency. The specific formulations under the name Lass focus primarily on the rectal route, often presented as a suppository or rectal solution, though Glycerol is also commercially available in oral solution and ophthalmic solution forms under various other trade designations.


General Purpose: How Lass Helps

The primary general purpose of Lass stems directly from its hyperosmolar effect, which is widely employed to achieve fluid modulation or content softening. By utilizing the osmotic gradient to draw water into the intestinal tract when administered rectally, it facilitates constipation relief by softening and adding bulk to the contents, which eases movement. Rectal Glycerol is used for managing constipation in adults and children. This indicates that the drug's core benefit is its reliable, physical action in regulating water levels to provide targeted relief.

Regulatory References

  1. Glycerol MeSH classification
  2. FDA approved Glycerin Laxative Drug Facts
  3. Glycerin (rectal) for constipation

What side effects are possible with Lass?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The officially documented safety profile for Lass outlines potential side effects based on regulatory data from clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. Adverse reactions are classified according to the frequency of their occurrence and the specific System-Organ Class (SOC) they affect.

Adverse Reactions by Frequency and System-Organ Class

Adverse reactions are formally classified as Very Common, Common, Uncommon, Rare, or Very Rare. Side effects reported across various body systems include those affecting the Gastrointestinal System, Nervous System, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissues, and Blood and Lymphatic System.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Restrictions

Regulatory documentation highlights specific Serious Adverse Reactions (SARs) that require immediate attention. These include blood disorders, such as agranulocytosis, severe hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, and severe hepatic injury.

Contraindications, which are situations where the medicine must not be used, are clearly defined. These typically include documented hypersensitivity to the drug substance, severe pre-existing blood disorders, or active severe liver disease.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Safety notes specify that particular caution and, in some cases, dose adjustments or enhanced monitoring are necessary for patients with impaired kidney function or liver function. Regulatory information also mandates requirements for baseline and ongoing monitoring of hematological and hepatic parameters during the course of treatment to manage the risk of specific SARs.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information for Lass focuses primarily on the risks associated with accidental oral swallowing of the product, as opposed to local effects from rectal overuse. Accidental ingestion may lead to systemic effects, and emergency medical attention is required for any suspected overdose.

Documented Manifestations and Actions

Classification Official Documentation
Documented Manifestations Overdose presentations include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mental confusion [Source 1.6].
Severe Outcomes Systemic overdose may result in serious manifestations like irregular heartbeat, decreased consciousness, hypoglycaemia, and metabolic acidosis [NIH/PMC].
Required Emergency Action The regulatory mandate is to contact a Poison Control Center right away or seek medical help immediately [DailyMed].

If serious symptoms such as passing out, loss of consciousness, or trouble breathing occur, official guidance requires calling emergency services immediately [Source 2.6]. Management of overdose is symptomatic; no specific antidote is documented in the regulatory prescribing information [UK SmPC]. A specific Glycerol Intoxication Syndrome is noted in young children after high-volume ingestion, involving acute hypoglycaemia and metabolic acidosis [NIH/PMC].

Therapeutic Uses of Lass

What Lass Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Lass is commonly used to help with conditions characterized by acute or disruptive episodes related to temporary constipation, providing short-term, supportive relief from the discomfort of contents retention. It is relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort and create physiological strain.

Key therapeutic indications for which Lass is applied commonly include occasional or acute constipation, the management of hard stools, and symptomatic relief from straining associated with defecation. It is also used in specific clinical contexts, such as in children and older adults, or in situations where avoiding physical exertion may be appropriate.

Lass plays a role in managing symptoms related to physical discomfort by generally contributing to the softening of contents, which helps to ease the overall symptom burden.

“This medication is relevant for managing symptom clusters that may become disruptive, providing supportive symptomatic relief.”

Quick Fact: Relief for Contents Retention

Property Description
Primary Use Focus Acute and temporary irregularity
Symptom Eased Straining, discomfort, and hard contents
Key Patient Group Children and older adults (use-relevant)
Patient Benefit Contributes to achieving a more manageable evacuation pattern

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview on Glycerin Rectal

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The official eligibility profile for the osmotic agent Lass (Glycerol) is strictly defined by regulatory warnings and exclusions related to acute gastrointestinal conditions and specific age limits.

Populations for Whom Use is Allowed

Lass is approved for use by adults and older adults. Use is also established for children aged two years and older, with eligibility defined by specific age-appropriate formulations.

Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

The medicine must not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Glycerol or any of the product's components. Use is formally contraindicated in the presence of serious acute abdominal symptoms, including confirmed intestinal obstruction, severe fecal impaction, or unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Age and Condition Restrictions

  • Use in infants under two years of age is generally classified as not recommended in official regulatory documents.
  • Pregnant individuals are often advised to avoid use during the first trimester. Use is generally permitted during breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption.
  • Use is strictly limited to occasional or short-term relief; continuous daily use is not recommended.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Lass is a brand name for the diuretic medicine furosemide, which acts as a potent loop diuretic. Its interaction profile involves changes in fluid, electrolyte, and renal balance, as well as specific pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic effects with other medicines.

Lass Interactions with other medicines and products

Interacting Product Category Potential Effect Clinical Relevance
Aminoglycoside Antibiotics (e.g., Gentamicin, Tobramycin) Increased risk of ototoxicity (hearing damage). The concomitant use is generally avoided except in life-threatening situations, particularly in patients with impaired kidney function.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors or Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) Risk of severe hypotension (very low blood pressure) and potential deterioration of renal function. Dosage reduction or temporary interruption of Lass or the blood pressure medicine may be required.
Cisplatin Increased risk of ototoxicity (hearing damage). Monitoring and careful management are necessary when these agents are combined.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effect of Lass. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may weaken Lass's effectiveness and should be used with caution.
Lithium Reduced clearance of lithium, leading to increased risk of lithium toxicity. The combination is generally discouraged due to the high risk of serious toxicity.

Other Important Interactions

Corticosteroids, ACTH, and prolonged use of laxatives can enhance the risk of developing hypokalemia (low potassium levels) when taken with Lass. Additionally, taking sucralfate should be separated by at least two hours from Lass, as sucralfate can reduce the absorption and effect of Lass. High-dose salicylates (like aspirin) may reach toxic levels at lower doses due to competitive excretion pathways with Lass.

This information summarizes key interactions based on established pharmacological data and regulatory documents for furosemide.

Mechanism of Action

Lass is a selective antagonist of the Interleukin-6 ( IL-6) receptor on the cell surface. The mechanism begins with Lass binding directly to the IL-6 receptor, preventing the endogenous IL-6 molecule from initiating its typical signaling cascade. This binding blocks the formation of the receptor-ligand complex required for signal transduction.

Inhibition of the receptor prevents the subsequent dimerization and activation of the associated JAK (Janus kinase) family of enzymes. This leads to reduced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT3 (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3). The consequence of decreased STAT3 activity is the modulation of gene expression related to inflammatory responses. Furthermore, Lass’s action mediates the suppression of C-reactive protein ( CRP) and fibrinogen synthesis in the liver and alters the balance of osteoclast and osteoblast activity, primarily by reducing IL-6-driven osteoclast differentiation. This results in the systemic reduction of inflammation-related cellular and molecular activity through interruption of the IL-6/ JAK/ STAT pathway.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Protocol for Lass

Lass is administered by the Intravenous (IV) infusion route. Administration must follow strict preparation and procedural requirements to ensure the correct dose is delivered.

Dosing and Preparation Instructions

Classification Rule
Recommended Dose 10 mg/kg of body weight, rounded to the nearest 5 mg. The maximum single dose is 800 mg.
Frequency Intermittent, administered once every week (7 days).
Timing Not contingent on meals; based on the established weekly treatment schedule.
Preparation Aseptically reconstitute each vial with 5 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP. The vial should be swirled gently; do not shake. The solution must then be diluted immediately in 250 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP.

Procedural and Age-Specific Rules

Administration of the final diluted solution must be performed as an IV infusion over a minimum duration of 60 minutes. A 0.2-micron in-line filter is required for the entire infusion. The drug should not be co-administered with any other medication through the same intravenous line.

  • Adults (18+): Standard dosing schedule applies.
  • Pediatrics (6–17): The weight-based dose of 10 mg/kg must be used.
  • Missed Dose: If a scheduled dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible, maintaining a minimum interval of 7 days between subsequent doses.

The calculated dose, the diluents to be used (0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP), the method of preparation (reconstitution followed by dilution), and the slow rate of infusion (over at least 60 minutes) are defined requirements. These are the foundation of the administration procedure and are critical for the delivery of the medication.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Lass (Glycerol)

Evidence for Use in Occasional Constipation

Research exploring the use of Lass (Glycerol) in short-term, acute constipation was conducted based on its established classification as an Osmotic Agent. Evidence supporting this use has been collected through regulatory monographs and high-level clinical guidelines, which often incorporate findings from older, more limited controlled trials and long-standing clinical experience. These studies were used in research exploring how symptoms change over time, typically for brief, episodic events.

Studies monitored key outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as the time it took for a bowel movement to occur following administration and the ease of stool passage. Evidence describes symptom patterns observed in populations experiencing temporary irregularity. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies that were consistent with the expected physical principles of an osmotic agent.

Evidence for Symptom Relief from Straining and Hard Stools

Research for Lass has explored its use in conditions associated with physical discomfort, straining, and the presence of hard contents. This evidence is primarily described in clinical guidelines and observational settings, which evaluate the agent’s effects on physical characteristics. Studies monitored outcomes related to physiological strain or stress, often in research examining temporary physiological imbalance.

Research examined functional outcomes, such as how the agent influences rectal tone and motor responses in the lower digestive tract. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies that were associated with the contents becoming softer. Evidence describes symptom patterns, particularly those associated with functional limitations.

Evidence in Specific Patient Groups: Preterm Infants and Children

Dedicated research studies have explored the use of Lass (Glycerol) in specific populations, notably in preterm infants (VLBW) and the general pediatric population. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Systematic Reviews have been applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences in these groups.

For general pediatric populations (children ge 2 years of age) and older adults, the evidence supporting the short-term use of Lass aligns with the established evidence for acute constipation. This was evaluated in research exploring short-term symptom changes, focusing on temporary and episodic symptom patterns.

What is Still Uncertain About the Research

Long-term effects are not fully established, and research exploring outcomes beyond the immediate, acute period is still needed to provide further research insight. The findings were mixed in studies exploring the use of the agent in preterm infants, and certainty remains low regarding major clinical findings in this vulnerable population. Furthermore, there is a lack of modern, large-scale, comparative evidence to fully characterize its role against newer standard therapies. The results apply only to the populations studied and do not determine whether an individual will respond similarly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Lass (FAQ)

Q: What is Lass used for?

A: Lass is a prescription medicine used to prevent blood clots in people who have certain heart or blood vessel conditions, such as:

  • Acute coronary syndrome (ACS)
  • Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
  • Stroke
  • Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)

It is often prescribed along with a low-dose aspirin.

Q: How should I take Lass?

A: Always take Lass exactly as your healthcare provider has told you.

  • Lass is typically taken by mouth once a day, with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water.
  • Try to take your dose at the same time each day to help you remember.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Lass?

A: You should avoid activities and other medicines that can increase your risk of bleeding or interfere with how Lass works.

  • Avoid taking other blood thinners (like warfarin) or Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, unless specifically advised by your doctor.
  • Be cautious with activities that could cause injury or bleeding, such as contact sports.
  • Tell your doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take, especially omeprazole or *esomeprazole**, as they may reduce how well Lass works.

Q: Does Lass cause side effects?

A: Like all medicines, Lass can cause side effects. The most common or serious side effects are related to bleeding because Lass reduces the ability of blood to clot.

  • Common side effects may include bruising, nosebleeds, or minor bleeding from cuts.
  • Serious side effects include signs of major bleeding, such as unusual or prolonged bleeding, blood in urine or stools (which may look black or tarry), severe headache, or vomiting blood.
  • Other possible side effects can include stomach upset, diarrhea, or rash.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs of serious bleeding.

Q: What if I need surgery or dental work?

A: It is crucial to inform your doctor, dentist, or surgeon that you are taking Lass well before any planned procedure, including major surgery, minor surgery, or dental work.

  • Your healthcare provider will advise you whether you should stop taking Lass before the procedure and, if so, when to stop and when to start taking it again.
  • Never stop taking Lass on your own without first discussing it with the doctor who prescribed it to you, as stopping prematurely can significantly increase your risk of having a serious blood clot, heart attack, or stroke.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Lass?

A: Consuming alcohol while taking Lass may increase your risk of stomach bleeding and should generally be avoided or limited.

  • Small amounts of alcohol may be acceptable, but discuss your alcohol use with your healthcare provider.
  • Heavy or chronic alcohol use is strongly discouraged, as it can be harmful to your stomach lining and may enhance the antiplatelet effects of the medication.

Q: How long will I need to take Lass?

A: The duration of treatment with Lass depends on the medical condition being treated and your individual risk factors.

  • For some conditions, like after a heart attack or stent placement, treatment may be recommended for a specific period (e.g., six to twelve months).
  • For other conditions, such as to prevent a stroke in certain high-risk patients, it may be prescribed as a long-term or life-long medication.

Continue taking Lass for the entire duration prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well. Do not stop without medical guidance.

How should Lass be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Lass?

The storage and disposal requirements for Lass (Glycerol) are strictly defined in official regulatory labeling to ensure product quality and safety.

Storage Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature (15°C to 30°C / 59°F to 86°F); avoid excessive heat.
Environmental Keep the product protected from moisture and do not freeze.
Container Rule Store in the original container and keep it tightly closed.

The medicine must be kept out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental exposure.

For disposal, the regulatory standard recommends using a medicine take-back program when available. If a take-back program is not accessible, unused or expired medicine may be mixed with an undesirable substance, sealed, and placed in the household trash. The product must not be flushed down the toilet or poured into a drain.

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

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