Laxatives for children

Laxatives for children are medicinal and natural products to eliminate intestinal dysfunction, which causes problems with defecation, pain and constipation in children. Consider the main indications for the use of such drugs, effective and safe means, the principle of their action and other features of the application.

Constipation is a condition in which the acts of defecation below the age norm. Due to intestinal dysfunction, the child cannot empty himself, becomes irritated and weeping, there is general weakness and pain in the abdomen. In order to find out if your baby has a predisposition to constipation, we present the age norms for stool frequency:

• Toddlers under the age of 4 months - normal stool frequency 1-7 times per day.
• Children from 4 months to 2 years - 1-3 cancers per day.
• Children over 2 years old - from 1-2 times in 1-2 days.

Special attention should be paid to the fact that problems with defecation in young children, as a rule, are associated with intestinal diseases. This may be a banal dysbacteriosis, lactase deficiency or intestinal abnormalities. For treatment use laxatives, in combination with a diet. But parents should remember that the drugs do not treat the cause of constipation, but only facilitate the excretion of feces. That is, laxative drugs can be called a short-term solution.

All laxatives for children have the following classification:

1. Medication, irritating receptors of the intestinal mucosa. Increase the rate of removal of fecal masses, after 1-2 hours comes complete emptying of the intestine. This category contains castor oil, buckthorn bark, Kafiol and Bisacodil plant-based preparations. But not all products from this group are recommended for use for children, so parents should carefully read the instructions.
2. Fillers and weakening agents that get inside and swell, that is, contribute to an increase in fluid in the intestine. This speeds up the process of peristalsis and leads to rapid emptying. As a rule, these are herbal preparations that include agar-agar, bran, seaweed. Can be used to treat constipation in very young patients.
3. Means with osmotic properties, retain water in the intestine, which contributes to the softening of the contents and its removal. In this category Duphalac, Sodium Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate, Normase, Lactoulus. Such tools are absolutely safe for children.
4. Drugs, softening feces. This contributes to the sliding of the contents of the intestine and its rapid withdrawal.

[1], [2]

Indications for the use of laxatives for children

Indications for the use of laxatives for children - episodic constipation after eating food, fastening the chair. If a child suffers from frequent constipation, then his diet should not contain eggs, bananas, dairy products, white rice, apple puree. In some cases, long-term treatment of diarrhea and taking antidiarrheal drugs can cause constipation. That is, this is another case in which the use of laxatives is indicated. The drug restores normal intestinal motility, softens the fecal masses, makes their removal less difficult and painful.

Sometimes it is difficult for parents to understand if their child has constipation, since the number of acts of defecation is different for everyone. But if defecation becomes the cause of pain, then it is necessary to use appropriate medicines. If the baby did not empty the intestines for more than 24 hours, then this is a sign of constipation. In older children, a bowel movement should take place at least once every two days, if this does not happen, then the child has constipation.

Constipation can be acute and chronic. Chronic proceeds more than three months, that is, during this period the child less and less goes to the toilet. In addition, every attempt to empty the intestines cause pain, tension, fecal masses have a fetid odor and dense structure. In acute constipation, the stool is hard and looks like beans, defecation occurs 1-2 times a week. All laxatives for children should be chosen by the pediatrician, after examining the baby and finding out the cause of constipation.

[3], [4], [5], [6], [7]

Release form

The form of release of drugs from constipation is chosen individually for each child and depends on his age. So, it is impossible for babies to give pills or any unpleasant, bitter-tasting means. Therefore, they are suitable drugs in the form of a drink, rectal suppository and microclysters.

If a child is from one to four years old, then laxatives can be used from drops, syrups, and candles. When choosing a medicine, special attention should be paid to ensure that the drug does not have a strong smell and has a pleasant taste. As a rule, such funds can be mixed with juices or food. If the kid has already learned to chew food thoroughly, then Regulax can be used. The tool has a minimum of contraindications, gently acting and is well tolerated by children.

For children over six years old, the release form of a laxative drug can be any. Suitable as tablets, or capsules, and candles, syrups, drops, powders for dilution. Sodium picosulphate drops are well proven, they can be added to food or diluted with juice. If the child has chronic constipation, then it is better to use Senadeksin, Nutrolax or Senade tablets.

Another dosage form to normalize the work of the intestine is an enema. If problems with emptying are caused by inflammatory bowel disease, then the child is given an oil enema.

[8], [9]

Pharmacodynamics of laxatives for children

Consider the pharmacodynamics of laxatives for children on the example of the drug Bisacodil.

• The drug has a laxative effect, well softens and thins the stool.
• The laxative effect is due to an increase in the amount of water in the intestine and a decrease in its absorption. Due to this improves intestinal motility.
• The mechanism of action of the drug is the splitting of its active substances in the alkaline environment of the intestine. It promotes the formation of substances that irritate the intestinal mucosa.

[10], [11],

Pharmacokinetics of laxatives for children 

The pharmacokinetics of laxatives for children are represented by the processes of absorption, distribution and excretion. Almost all means for restoring normal intestinal peristalsis are not completely absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract and the systemic circulation. The active ingredients are broken down in the colon, forming active metabolites.

Depending on the composition of the medicinal product, the active ingredients have a therapeutic effect within 1-4 hours after application. Preparations of the intestine are derived about 90% and partly by the kidneys in the form of inactive polymers. The remaining part is absorbed, bioavailability is about 5%.

[12], [13], [14], [15]

Alternative laxatives for children

Alternative laxatives for children are always popular. Since these drugs can effectively and safely eliminate constipation and other problems with the act of defecation. Consider basic laxatives that can be used for children.

• Dried fruits

If your child suffers from constipation, and you do not want to resort to medication, use dried fruits. If the child is quite small, you can make compote, for older children, fruits are suitable as a delicacy. The prunes, dates, and figs have laxative properties. Wash fruit thoroughly, pour boiling water over it and let it brew for 6-8 hours. The resulting infusion can be drunk, and fruit boldly consumed. Such a laxative does not require special preparation and does not adversely affect the functioning of the child’s body.

• Aloe

One of the most popular alternative laxatives. Aloe leaves have a beneficial effect on the intestines and the gastrointestinal tract. To prepare the medicine, take a couple of leaves of the plant and put them in the refrigerator for 14 days (this is necessary for biostimulation). After that, you need to squeeze out the aloe juice, mix it with honey 1: 1 and take it every morning on an empty stomach. After 2-3 days, the intestines and stomach will work without problems.

• Rowan

For the preparation of a laxative, you will need rowan berries and sugar. Berries are thoroughly washed, filled with sugar and put in a warm place to form a syrup. After that, the fruits of mountain ash must be pressed, add 20-25 g of alcohol to the syrup and take a teaspoon to improve bowel emptying. This tool is suitable for children of adolescence, but it is contraindicated to give to babies, as alcohol is part of the alternative means.

• Carrot

Freshly squeezed carrot juice is an excellent remedy for the treatment and prevention of constipation in both children and adults. A glass of juice before bedtime or in the morning, will adjust the intestines to normal operation.

• Burdock

Thorns (burdock) of burdock possess laxative properties. A handful of thorns need to pour boiling water and insist 2-3 hours. The resulting infusion filter and take a tablespoon before bedtime.

• Plantain

One of the most popular and effective alternative means. To prepare the medicine, take 10 g of psyllium seed, pour 100 ml of boiling water and let it brew for 6-8 hours. All received infusion must be drunk at a time, preferably in the morning.

• Rivne

If the child suffers from constipation, syrup or rhubarb decoction will help to cope with this problem. Rinse the plant thoroughly, pour boiling water over it and let it stand for a couple of hours or maintain it in a water bath. The medicine will quickly eliminate problems with defecation and improve the bowels.

• Oil and honey

The simplest and most accessible remedy for treating problems with bowel movements. Take equal quantities of vegetable oil and honey, mix these ingredients thoroughly and give the child 2-3 spoons in the morning on an empty stomach. In a couple of days, problems with constipation will pass.

• Horse sorrel

From this plant it is possible to prepare a safe and effective laxative for the child. Two tablespoons of sorrel pour 500 ml of boiling water and leave for 30-40 minutes in a water bath. The medicine must be taken a glass before bedtime.

• Pumpkin

For very young children suffering from constipation, you can cook pumpkin porridge. Pumpkin is a light diuretic and laxative, gently acting on the intestines.

• Lingonberry and snapdragon

Infusions of lingonberry and snapdragon work as alternative means to improve bowel movements and eliminate constipation. Lingonberry need to pour boiling water and insist for 6-8 hours. Insist strain and take in the morning and before bedtime. According to the same recipe, you can prepare medicine from snapdragon.

• Almond oil

One or two tablespoons of almond oil before each meal is the simplest remedy for treating defecation problems in children. Oil is recommended to use no more than three times a day.

• Peach leaves

This recipe helps to get rid not only of constipation, but also from worms. This is an alternative to medical drugs for worms for children. Take 50 g of dried peach leaves, pour 500 ml of boiling water and put in a warm place for the night. In the morning, boil the medicine 2-3 times, strain it thoroughly and add 1-2 tablespoons of honey. Infusion take 3-4 spoons before each meal.

[18], [19], [20], [21], [22], [23], [24]

Natural laxatives for children

Natural laxatives for children is a series of medicinal products that gently act on the children's body and have no side effects. As a rule, constipation in children associated with the style of nutrition of the family. In the diet of the child should be foods that are beneficial to the functioning of the intestine. Laxative properties have: cabbage, pumpkin, beets, dried apricots, plums, figs, zucchini, bran and many other products. They should be included in the diet of the child to ensure normal bowel movement.

Consider a few recipes for natural laxatives for children that can be prepared by yourself at home.

• Broth to improve intestinal motility

If the baby has difficulty emptying the bowel, then this decoction for oral administration will help eliminate constipation. You will need a vegetable collection of buckthorn bark, rowan and cumin, in a ratio of 8: 4: 1. All ingredients must be thoroughly crushed, add water and boil in a water bath. After that, the agent should cool down and infuse for an hour. Filter infusion through a thick layer of gauze.

For children aged 2-3 years old, give a teaspoonful of broth 2 times a day in the morning and before bedtime. For children 4-7 years old, one dessert spoon twice a day, and for older children, a tablespoon, observing the dosage described above. Decoction improves intestinal motility, regulates stool. The course of treatment should not exceed 2-3 days.

• Infusion for the treatment and prevention of constipation

This recipe is suitable for children suffering from increased gas formation and frequent constipation. To prepare the infusion, take the buckthorn bark, calamus root and licorice root, in a ratio of 3: 1.5: 1. All ingredients thoroughly chop, pour boiling water and hold on medium heat for 10-15 minutes. After this medicine you need to wrap a towel and insist for 1-2 hours. Strain through several layers of the brand, so that the remnants of raw materials do not fall into the infusion. The dosage is fully consistent with the above recipe. The infusion normalizes stools and prevents gas formation in the intestines.

Dosage and administration

Dosage and administration of any drugs, including laxatives, are selected individually for each patient. In drawing up the required dosage for children, it is necessary to consider the form of release of the drug and the age of the child.

As a rule, tablets are prescribed in the morning and before bedtime, and suspensions, drops, and various powders to improve intestinal motility - up to three times a day. Rectal suppositories are best to put the child an hour before bedtime or in the morning. Please note that if the drug is taken at night, then its action occurs in 6-12 hours, and if in the morning, then in 2-4 hours. This principle of action in many laxative medicines.

[25], [26], [27], [28]

Contraindications to the use of laxatives for children 

Contraindications to the use of laxatives for children are completely dependent on the composition of the drug and the age of the child (some medicines are prohibited for infants and children under 6 years of age). Consider the main contraindications to the use of drugs for the treatment of constipation and improve peristalsis in children.

• Intestinal obstruction.
• Acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs (appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease).
• Cystitis.
• Spastic constipation.
• Violations of water and electrolyte metabolism.
• Hypersensitivity to the drug.
• Abdominal pain of obscure origin.
• Lactase deficiency.

With extreme caution, laxatives are prescribed for patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency, as well as after abdominal operations. In any case, before taking the medication, you should consult with your doctor.

[16], [17]

Side effects of laxatives for children

Side effects of laxatives for children occur when there are contraindications to taking the drug or if the dosage and rules of use are not followed. Children may be bothered by intestinal cramps, slight aching pain in the stomach. In rare cases, there is a feeling of thirst and dry mouth. If the instructions are not followed, diarrhea and fever may occur.

Overdose

Overdose of laxative drugs in children may occur if the dosage is not followed or due to prolonged treatment. Most often, taking a high dose causes diarrhea, muscle weakness, vomiting, arterial hypotension. In severe cases, local or generalized convulsions are possible.

For the treatment of symptoms of overdose, you must stop giving the child a laxative, gastric lavage or an enema. Be sure to seek medical attention. If necessary, doctors will restore water-electrolyte and acid-base balance, and in case of convulsive syndrome, they will prescribe anticonvulsant drugs.

[29], [30], [31], [32], [33], [34]

Interactions laxatives for children with other drugs

The interaction of laxatives for children with other drugs is possible only under medical supervision and after the permission of a doctor. Independently giving a child several drugs at the same time is dangerous, since this can lead to uncontrollable adverse reactions in the children's body.

Consider the possibility of the interaction of the drug Bisacodil with other medicines. The drug is not recommended to take simultaneously with antacids, milk or alkaline mineral water. Since this leads to the destruction of the shell of the drug is still in the stomach and not in the intestine, which causes irritation of the gastric mucosa. Because of this, the child may complain of nausea, epigastric pain and vomiting.

[35], [36], [37], [38]

Storage conditions laxatives for children

Storage conditions for laxatives for children are no different from the principle of storage of other medicines. First of all, all preparations must be stored in the original packaging, observing the temperature regime (usually not higher than 25 ^o C). Storage should be protected from sunlight and not accessible to children. Parents should ensure that the child does not take the drug on his own and pay special attention to the dosage and compliance with the rules of use of the drug.

[39], [40], [41]

Shelf life

The shelf life of laxatives for children depends on the form of release. On average, drugs for constipation and to improve intestinal motility are stored for no longer than 24 months. After the expiration date or when the drug is spoiled before it ends, the medicine must be disposed of. It is strictly forbidden to give children expired medicines.

Laxatives for children are represented by a wide group of drugs for the treatment and prevention of constipation and problems with bowel movements. Natural remedies and methods of alternative medicine, which are based only on herbal ingredients that are safe for children, have effective healing properties. You can only give laxatives to children only after consulting a doctor, who will select an effective remedy that will quickly eliminate intestinal problems.

[42], [43], [44]

The names of laxatives for children help parents navigate the choice of a safe and effective drug for their children. Consider drugs to improve intestinal motility:

Bisacodyl

Laxative drug with carminative action, accelerates intestinal peristalsis. The effect of the drug occurs a couple of hours after application. The drug is effective in constipation, for the regulation of stool in patients with hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It is used in preparation for operations, radiological or instrumental examinations.

• Bisacodil is approved for use in pediatric patients. So, for children between the ages of 2-8 years, give 5 mg of the drug, from 8-14 to 10 mg, for adults and adolescents to 5-15 mg. The medicine is recommended to be taken at night or in the morning one hour before meals. The drug is produced not only in the form of tablets, but also in the form of rectal suppositories. Suppositories are prescribed to children from 2 years, the dosage is as follows: 2-7 years - 5 mg, 8-15 years - 10 mg, adults and adolescents in 10-20 mg.
• A laxative is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the drug components, hernia, intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, cystitis, fever, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs.
• If the dosage and instructions for use of the drug are not followed, side effects are possible. Bisacodil causes colic in the intestinal area, diarrhea, hypotension, general weakness, allergic reactions. Prolonged use of tablets causes colon melanosis, hypokalemia, colitis. The drug is contraindicated to take simultaneously with antacids.

It is released without a prescription, but before use it is recommended to consult a doctor.

[45], [46], [47]

Lactulose

The drug for the treatment and prevention of constipation, stimulates intestinal peristalsis. The active components of the drug reduce the pH in the lumen of the large intestine and stimulate the production of lactic acid microorganisms. This significantly increases the volume of feces and promotes effective bowel movement. Available in bottles, in the form of syrup and in the form of powder.

• As a rule, this drug is prescribed to adolescents at a dosage of 20-30 mg 3-4 times a day. For young children, it is recommended to use Lactulose syrup at a dose of 7.5 ml once a day.
• The drug is contraindicated to take in case of hypersensitivity to the drug, intestinal obstruction. It is forbidden to use for pain in the gastrointestinal tract, nausea and vomiting.
• Side effects occur with prolonged use of the drug and manifest as flatulence, diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance. If the medicine is taken simultaneously with antacids, then this reduces the effect of the laxative.

[48], [49], [50], [51], [52]

Sodium picosulphate

A remedy with a laxative effect of contact action. The drug does not cause cramps, and with prolonged use of addiction. If the drug is prescribed to infants, its effectiveness is reduced due to the insignificant amount of bacterial flora. Available in the form of drops and tablets.

• The main indications for use: constipation due to sluggish peristalsis of the colon, the regulation of bowel movements in hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Tablets facilitate bowel emptying with inoperable hernias, severe hypertension.
• If the drug is prescribed for adolescents and adults, then it is recommended to use both drops of 10 drops and tablets. For children over 4 years old - 5-8 drops. Depending on the effect of the drug on the body, the dosage may increase or, on the contrary, decrease. Sodium picosulphate is taken before bedtime, since the effect occurs after about 6-8 hours.
• Contraindicated in the use of intestinal obstruction, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs, hernias, spastic constipation and for patients younger than 4 years.
• With prolonged use causes diarrhea, which causes electrolyte imbalance and contributes to the appearance of seizures. The drug is not recommended for longer than 10 days without medical supervision.

[53], [54], [55], [56]

Normacol

Laxative drug that increases the volume of fecal masses. The tool is produced in the form of a powder for the preparation of solutions. The active ingredient Normakola - natural glass glue, that is, plant mucus with hydrophilic properties. The drug is not metabolized and is not absorbed in the digestive tract, improves peristalsis.

• The tool is used for the treatment and prevention of constipation. The dosage is selected individually for each patient. As a rule, 1-4 sachets are administered orally per day after meals.
• Normakol is contraindicated for use in acute abdomen and intestinal obstruction. When improperly selected dosage, the drug causes an accumulation of gas in the intestine and disrupts the absorption of drugs used simultaneously with the laxative. Therefore, the interval between the use of different drugs should be at least 60 minutes.

[57], [58]

Oil is Vaseline

Not absorbed and effectively softens fecal masses. The tool significantly increases the volume of the intestine and stimulates its rapid emptying. Vaseline oil is prescribed to pediatric patients for the treatment of conditioned reflex constipation. The course of treatment should not exceed 7 days, the dosage of 1-2 tablespoons per day between meals.

Vaseline oil is contraindicated for use in gastric ulcers, hemorrhoids, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs. Increased dosages can cause nausea, digestive disorders. In rare cases, itching and irritation in the anus.

[59], [60], [61]

Castor oil

Herbal medicine from castor bean seeds. After application, it is broken down in the small intestine and increases peristalsis. The laxative effect occurs after 5-6 hours. Castor oil is recommended for the treatment of constipation. Children are prescribed 5-15 gelatin capsules of the drug, adolescents 15-30 capsules each. 

A laxative is contraindicated for use in acute diseases of the abdominal organs, that is, peritonitis, ulcerative colitis, appendicitis. In case of non-compliance with the dosage or long-term use, the drug causes nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen.

In addition to the above laxatives, for the treatment of constipation and problems with bowel movement in children, you can use these drugs:

• Duphalac, Lactusan, Prelaks - drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora, softening the feces and contribute to its soft removal. Preparations are produced in the form of a suspension, so it is convenient to give it to even the smallest patients.
• Mebeverin, Buscopan - effectively treat intestinal spasms and facilitate the excretion of feces. Available in the form of rectal suppositories and capsules for oral administration.
• Macrogol, Tranzipeg, Forlax (for children) - drugs to soften the feces and their smooth excretion. The drugs are produced in the form of a powder, which must be dissolved in a small amount of water. The laxative effect occurs 1-2 days after ingestion.

Laxatives for children should be chosen by the doctor. Parents should be careful when choosing their own products for their babies. Be sure to carefully read the instructions and consult a doctor.

[62], [63]