What is the Evidence for Over the Counter Laxatives to Treat Childhood Constipation?

Adam Paul, Jaya Punati

Current gastroenterology reports 2021 Oct 12

filter terms:

Functional constipation is a common pediatric GI disorder that is responsible for a significant portion of pediatric office visits each year. It presents a significant stressor for patients, their families, and providers alike. There are a variety of over the counter agents available for treatment of pediatric constipation. Osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350) and lactulose, remain the most effective and safe therapy for both long and short term treatment of pediatric functional constipation. Stimulant laxatives, like Senna and Bisacodyl, probiotics, fiber preparations, enemas, and suppositories make excellent choices for adjunct therapies in specific clinical scenarios. There are multiple over the counter pharmacologic agents with various mechanisms of action that have demonstrated efficacy in pediatric functional constipation. These therapies are generally safe and well tolerated by patients. © 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.

Citation

Adam Paul, Jaya Punati. What is the Evidence for Over the Counter Laxatives to Treat Childhood Constipation? Current gastroenterology reports. 2021 Oct 12;23(11):19