How quickly do suppositories typically act?

Suppositories generally demonstrate their effects within a time frame of 15 to 30 minutes after administration. This range is due to the way suppositories are absorbed in the rectal cavity. Upon insertion, the body temperature helps the suppository melt, and the medication is then absorbed through the rectal mucosa into the bloodstream.

The absorption process can be a bit quicker than oral medications, as medications delivered through the rectal route often bypass some of the metabolic processes that occur when taken orally. This means that relief from symptoms or onset of effects is typically felt sooner compared to other forms of medication administration, such as oral tablets or capsules, which might take longer to dissolve, pass through the digestive system, and reach systemic circulation.

The other options suggest a quicker or slower onset of action than what is typically observed, which may not align with the pharmacokinetics of rectally administered medications.