The most popular use case for boric acid suppositories is for remediating vaginal infections. After they have been inserted, how long does it take for boric acid suppositories to dissolve?

How Boric Acid Suppositories Work

Suppositories are solid, capsule-like medications that are ingested through the rectum, vagina, or urethra.  Doctors recommend different forms of suppositories depending on the medical condition and purpose, with rectal suppositories being the most common type of suppository prescribed.

Boric acid suppositories are often used for problems related to the vagina, and as such, these are vaginally inserted. Vaginal boric acid contains probiotics or “friendly bacteria” (Lactobacilliales) and antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E, which work together to restore normal vaginal acidity and vaginal flora balance.

Boric acid suppositories are especially effective in treating yeast infections, as it works by preventing candidiasis, a type of infection caused by yeast, from growing.  Doctors often recommend using it as a second-line treatment when other antifungal medications prove to be ineffective.

How Do You Insert Boric Acid Suppositories?

You can follow this process when applying a boric acid suppository:

1. Wash and dry your hands first – Above all else, it’s important to keep your hands clean and dry to avoid the risk of additional bacterial infections.
2. Lie on your back with bent knees – This is considered an ideal way of insertion since many women find it easier to insert while doing this method. Standing with your knees bent and feet apart also helps too. 
3. Insert the suppository gently as far as it can comfortably go into your vagina – You can use an applicator to insert the suppository. In the absence of an applicator, you can just use your fingers. 
4. Close your legs and sit or lie to let it set in.
5. Dispose of the used applicator immediately. 

The commonly prescribed dosage of vaginal boric acid is one (1) suppository capsule inserted into the vagina once a day for 3 to 6 days in a row. Also, avoid handling the suppository for too long. Otherwise, the capsule could melt in your hands.

For yeast infections, the standard prescription is one capsule daily, to be inserted in the vagina at bedtime for 7 days. For recurring yeast infections, it can be prescribed for a period of 14 days (2 weeks), and then boric acid can be used twice a week for 6 months to 1 year.

When in doubt, be sure to contact your healthcare provider for help with dosage, frequency, and other concerns.

How Long Does It Take For The Suppository To Dissolve?

After inserting the vaginal boric acid suppository, the capsule stays inside the vagina for a few minutes for it to completely dissolve (Sources say up to 15 minutes). But as each body is different, it can sometimes take up to 12 hours for the suppository to fully melt inside.

How Long Until I Get To See Some Results?

You should see some results as fast as one day, but you should follow the full prescripted medication dosage to ensure that the infection doesn’t return. If your infection is particularly acute, your doctor may prescribe inserting 2 capsules daily into the vagina for an extended period of 6 to 14 days.

What To Do After You’ve Taken The Suppository

Once you’ve inserted the vaginal boric acid, there are some things you’ll need to observe. 

If you are using boric acid suppositories for an active infection of your vagina, you should avoid having sex. We recommend refraining from intercourse for up to 12 hours to ensure that the suppository has been completely dissolved. This is done because some people who have engaged in penile-vaginal sex while taking these suppositories have reported feeling a weird, gritty sensation and, in some cases, pain in their genitals or pelvis (male dyspareunia).

What To Expect After Taking Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid suppositories are generally safe for adult use, but they normally cause some uncomfortable yet harmless after effects. 

• Burning sensation at the insertion site
• Watery discharge
• Redness in the vaginal area

In case of watery discharges, it’s often recommended to wear a panty liner immediately after inserting the capsule to avoid visible leakage. 

Can You Overdose On Boric Acid Suppositories?

The dangers of boric acid suppositories are minimal and there have been no deaths recorded from their usage.

Accidental oral ingestion of vaginal boric acid is not usually expected to be gravely dangerous. However, it can cause a variety of side effects, such as the following:

• Bluish/greenish-colored vomit
• Rashes on the skin
• Diarrhea
• Blisters
• Seizures
• Drowsiness
• Fever
• Headache
• Lethargy
• Low blood pressure
• Restlessness
• Significantly decreased urine output (or none)
• Twitching of the muscles in the face, arms, hands, legs, and feet

And in certain amounts, ingesting boric acid could prove to be fatal, depending on the person’s age and physical constitution:

• Less than 5 g for infants
• 3 to 6 g for children
• 5 to 30 g for adults 

In the event of boric acid poisoning, seek immediate medical attention or call the toll-free Poison Help line at 1‑800‑222‑1222.

*Do not ingest boric acid orally!

Other Pointers To Remember

Regardless of their kind, you should take a few things in mind when taking suppositories.

• As much as possible, avoid missing doses since these could reduce the effectiveness of the suppositories.
• Always follow the dosage and storage directions on the label.
• Avoid applying petroleum jelly or lubricant on the suppository. This prevents the suppository from melting. 
• Store suppositories in the refrigerator or a similarly cool place to prevent them from melting.
• Make sure the capsules are hard before using them, as soft suppositories can be difficult to insert. Gently squeeze it to see if it is firm enough. Otherwise, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
• Trim your fingernails before inserting the suppositories to prevent cutting and scraping the capsule. Opt for an applicator if there is one available. 
• There are instances where the suppository could fall out. Be sure to insert them fully as far as one can comfortably go.
• If you’re having trouble using suppositories, consider asking a partner or caregiver for help.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.