Constipation.
Constipation is actually pretty common in children! In fact, approximately 40% are affected by it.
If your child is experiencing constipation in any of these factors are present -- Do NOT TREAT with OTC medications! -- call your pediatrician.
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When used, OTC medications ideally should remove the impacted stool (if applicable), restart normal bowel habits, and keep this from continuing or happening again.
Treatment is dependent on AGE!
INFANTS (less than 1 year of age)
OVER 1 YEAR OF AGE - 2 Stages
- Glycerin suppositories are 1st-line treatment of choice! They are used for disimpaction.
- Add juices that are high in sorbitol content to the diet (i.e., apple, pear, or prune).
- Stool softeners can also be used, such as, sorbitol, corn syrup, or barley malt extract.
- AVOID! magnesium and phosphorous products, stimulant laxatives, enemas, and mineral oil.
OVER 1 YEAR OF AGE - 2 Stages
- Stage 1 is referred to as the disimpaction stage and can be treated with medications administered by mouth or rectally.
- Oral: polyethylene glycol (PEG)
- Rectal:
- Phosphate or saline enemas
- Bisacodyl suppositories can be used in older children
- Stage 2 is referred to as the maintenance stage. Your child should use these medications for at least 2 months to restore their body back to its normal function.
- Osmotic laxatives (preferred) or lubricant laxatives.
- Stimulant laxatives can be used as needed for "rescue therapy."
Osmotic Laxatives.
Oral
Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), Magnesium Citrate
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Rectal
Glycerin (PediaLax)
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Lubricant Laxatives.
Mineral Oil
- Will begin working within 6-8 hours.
- May give rectally if more than 2 years old.
- AVOID oral formulation! if child is less than 6 years old or has swallowing difficulties.
- It doesn't taste well! Will be more palatable if chilled.
- Child will need to stay upright for 30-60 minutes after administration.
Stimulant Laxatives.
Senna (Senakot), Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
- Will begin working within 6-12 hours.
- Only use as needed. Not recommended to be used as continuous therapy. Referred to as "rescue therapy."
- May be used in children more than 6 years old under doctor supervision.
- Patients may experience cramping and abdominal pain.