Laxatives for children

Laxatives for children are medicinal and natural preparations for eliminating intestinal dysfunction, which causes problems with defecation, pain and constipation in children. Let's consider the main indications for the use of such drugs, effective and safe means, the principle of their action and other features of use.

Constipation is a condition in which bowel movements are below the age norm. Due to bowel dysfunction, the child cannot empty himself, becomes irritable and whiny, general weakness and pain in the tummy appear. In order to find out if your baby is predisposed to constipation, we present age norms for stool frequency:

• Babies under 4 months of age – normal stool frequency is 1-7 times per day.
• Children from 4 months to 2 years old – 1-3 cancers per day.
• Children over 2 years old – 1-2 times every 1-2 days.

It is worth paying special attention to the fact that problems with defecation in young children are usually associated with intestinal diseases. This may be banal dysbacteriosis, lactase deficiency or intestinal abnormalities. Laxatives are used for treatment, in combination with a diet. But parents should remember that the drugs do not treat the cause of constipation, but only facilitate the removal of feces. That is, laxatives can safely be called a short-term solution to the problem.

All laxatives for children have the following classification:

1. Medicines that irritate the receptors of the colon mucosa. Increase the rate of excretion of feces, after 1-2 hours the intestines are completely emptied. This category includes castor oil, buckthorn bark, herbal preparations Kafiol and Bisacodyl. But not all products from this group are recommended for use by children, so parents should carefully read the instructions.
2. Fillers and looseners that get inside and swell, i.e. contribute to the increase of liquid in the intestine. This accelerates the process of peristalsis and leads to rapid emptying. As a rule, these are herbal preparations, which include agar-agar, bran, seaweed. They can be used to treat constipation in the smallest patients.
3. Products with osmotic properties retain water in the intestines, which helps soften the contents and remove them. In this category are Dufalac, sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, Normase, Lactoluse. Such products are absolutely safe for children.
4. Medicines that soften stool. This helps the intestinal contents slide and be quickly eliminated.

[ 1 ], [ 2 ]

Indications for the use of laxatives for children

Indications for the use of laxatives for children are occasional constipation after eating food that binds the stool. If a child suffers from frequent constipation, then his diet should not include 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 feces, makes their removal less difficult and painful.

Sometimes it is difficult for parents to understand if their child is constipated, since the number of bowel movements is different for everyone. But if bowel movements cause pain, then it is necessary to use appropriate medications. If a baby has not emptied the bowels for more than 24 hours, then this is a sign of constipation. In older children, bowel movements should occur at least once every two days, if this does not happen, then the child is constipated.

Constipation can be acute or chronic. Chronic constipation lasts more than three months, that is, during this period the child goes to the toilet less and less often. At the same time, each attempt to empty the bowels causes pain, tension, feces have a foul odor and a dense structure. With acute constipation, the feces are hard and outwardly resemble beans, defecation occurs 1-2 times a week. All laxatives for children should be selected by a 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 for constipation is selected individually for each child and depends on his age. Thus, it is impossible to give pills or any unpleasant, bitter-tasting products to infants. Therefore, drugs in the form of drinks, rectal suppositories and microclysters are suitable for them.

If the child is between one and four years old, then drops, syrups, and suppositories can be used as laxatives. When choosing a medicine, special attention should be paid to the fact that the drug does not have a strong odor and has a pleasant taste. As a rule, such products can be mixed with juices or food. If the baby has already learned to chew food thoroughly, then you can use Regulax. The product has a minimum of contraindications, acts gently and is well tolerated by children.

For children over six years old, the laxative can come in any form. Tablets or capsules, suppositories, syrups, drops, and powders for dilution are all suitable. Sodium picosulfate drops have proven themselves well; they can be added to food or diluted with juice. If a child has chronic constipation, it is better to use Senadeksin, Nutrolax, or Senade tablets.

Another form of medicine for normalizing bowel function is an enema. If problems with bowel movements are caused by inflammatory bowel diseases, then the child is prescribed oil enemas.

[ 8 ], [ 9 ]

Pharmacodynamics of laxatives for children

Let us consider the pharmacodynamics of laxatives for children using the drug Bisacodyl as an example.

• The medicine has a laxative effect, softens and liquefies feces well.
• The laxative effect is due to the increase in the amount of water in the intestine and the decrease in its absorption. Due to this, intestinal peristalsis improves.
• The mechanism of action of the drug is the breakdown of its active substances in the alkaline environment of the intestine. This contributes to the formation of substances that irritate the intestinal mucosa.

[ 10 ], [ 11 ]

Pharmacokinetics of laxatives for children

The pharmacokinetics of laxatives for children is 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 systemic bloodstream. The active substances are broken down in the colon, forming active metabolites.

Depending on the composition of the drug, the active components have a therapeutic effect within 1-4 hours after application. About 90% of the drugs are excreted by the intestines and partly by the kidneys in the form of inactive polymers. The remaining part is absorbed, bioavailability is about 5%.

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

Folk laxatives for children

Folk laxatives for children are always popular. Since such medicines allow you to effectively and safely eliminate constipation and other problems with the act of defecation. Let's consider the main 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 very small, you can make compote, for older children, fruits are suitable as a treat. Prunes, dates, and figs have laxative properties. Wash the fruits thoroughly, pour boiling water over them and let them brew for 6-8 hours. You can drink the resulting infusion, and you can safely eat the fruits. This laxative does not require special preparation and does not negatively affect the functioning of the child's body.

• Aloe

One of the most popular folk laxatives. Aloe leaves have a beneficial effect on the intestines and 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, squeeze the juice out of the aloe, 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

To prepare a laxative, you will need rowan berries and sugar. Wash the berries thoroughly, cover with sugar and put in a warm place to form a syrup. After that, squeeze the rowan berries, add 20-25 g of alcohol to the syrup and take a teaspoon until bowel movements improve. This remedy is suitable for teenagers, but it is contraindicated for babies, since the folk remedy contains alcohol.

• 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 bed or in the morning will set the intestines to work normally.

• Burdock

Burdock thorns have laxative properties. A handful of thorns should be poured with boiling water and left for 2-3 hours. Strain the resulting infusion and take a tablespoon before bedtime.

• Plantain

One of the most popular and effective folk remedies. To prepare the medicine, take 10 g of plantain seeds, pour 100 ml of boiling water and let it brew for 6-8 hours. The entire resulting infusion must be drunk at one time, preferably in the morning.

• Rhubarb

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

• Butter and honey

The simplest and most accessible remedy for treating problems with bowel movements. Take equal amounts 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, constipation problems will go away.

• Horse sorrel

This plant can be used to make a safe and effective laxative for a child. Pour 500 ml of boiling water over two tablespoons of sorrel and leave for 30-40 minutes in a water bath. The medicine should be taken one glass before bedtime.

• Pumpkin

For very young children suffering from constipation, you can prepare pumpkin porridge. Pumpkin is a mild diuretic and laxative, gently affecting the intestines.

• Lingonberry and snapdragon

Lingonberry and snapdragon infusions work as folk remedies to improve bowel movements and eliminate constipation. Lingonberry should be poured with boiling water and infused for 6-8 hours. Strain the infusion and take in the morning and before bed. You can make a medicine from snapdragon using the same recipe.

• Almond oil

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

• Peach leaves

This recipe helps to get rid of not only constipation, but also worms. It is an alternative to medications for helminths for children. Take 50 g of dry peach leaves, pour 500 ml of boiling water and put in a warm place overnight. In the morning, the medicine should be boiled 2-3 times, thoroughly filtered and add 1-2 spoons of honey. Take 3-4 spoons of the infusion before each meal.

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

Natural Laxatives for Children

Natural laxatives for children are a range of medicinal products that act gently on the child's body and have no side effects. As a rule, constipation in children is associated with the family's eating style. The child's diet should include products that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the intestines. Cabbage, pumpkin, beets, dried apricots, plums, figs, squash, bran and many other products have laxative properties. They should be included in the child's diet to ensure normal bowel movements.

Let's look at several recipes for natural laxatives for children that you can prepare yourself at home.

• Decoction to improve intestinal peristalsis

If your baby has difficulty emptying his/her bowels, this decoction for oral administration will help eliminate constipation. You will need a herbal mixture of buckthorn bark, rowan berries and caraway seeds in a ratio of 8:4:1. All ingredients must be thoroughly crushed, poured with water and boiled in a water bath. After this, the remedy should cool and infuse for an hour. Strain the infusion through a thick layer of gauze.

For children aged 2-3 years, give the decoction one teaspoon twice a day in the morning and before bed. For children aged 4-7 years, one dessert spoon twice a day, and for older children, one tablespoon, observing the dosage described above. The decoction improves intestinal peristalsis and 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 buckthorn bark, calamus root and licorice root in a ratio of 3:1.5:1. Grind all the ingredients thoroughly, pour boiling water over them and keep on medium heat for 10-15 minutes. After this, the medicine should be wrapped in a towel and infused for 1-2 hours. Strain through several layers of the stamp so that the remaining raw materials do not get into the infusion. The dosage is completely consistent with the above recipe. The infusion normalizes stool and prevents gas formation in the intestines.

Method of administration and dosage

The method of administration and dosage of any drugs, including laxatives, are selected individually for each patient. When compiling the necessary dosage for children, it is necessary to take into account 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 peristalsis - up to three times a day. Rectal suppositories are best given to a child an hour before bedtime or in the morning. Please note that if the drug is taken at night, its effect occurs in 6-12 hours, and if in the morning, then in 2-4 hours. This is the principle of action of many laxative medications.

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

Contraindications to the use of laxatives for children

Contraindications to the use of laxatives for children depend entirely on the composition of the drug and the age of the child (some medications are prohibited for infants and children under 6 years of age). Let's consider the main contraindications to the use of drugs for the treatment of constipation and improvement of peristalsis in children.

• Intestinal obstruction.
• Acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs (appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease).
• Cystitis.
• Spastic constipation.
• Disturbances of water and electrolyte balance.
• Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
• Abdominal pain of unknown origin.
• Lactose intolerance.

Laxatives are prescribed with special caution to patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency, as well as after abdominal surgeries. In any case, before taking the medication, you must consult a 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 when the dosage and rules of use are not followed. Children may be bothered by intestinal spasms, minor aching pain in the stomach. In rare cases, a feeling of thirst and dry mouth appears. If the instructions for the drug are not followed, diarrhea and fever are possible.

Overdose

Overdose of laxatives in children may occur due to non-compliance with the dosage or due to long-term treatment. Most often, taking a high dose causes diarrhea, muscle weakness, vomiting, arterial hypotension. In particularly severe cases, local or generalized convulsions are possible.

To treat overdose symptoms, stop giving the child laxatives, perform gastric lavage or an enema. Be sure to seek medical help. If necessary, doctors will restore the water-electrolyte and acid-base balance, and in case of convulsive syndrome, prescribe anticonvulsants.

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

Interactions of laxatives for children with other drugs

Interaction of laxatives for children with other drugs is possible only under medical supervision and after permission from a doctor. It is dangerous to give a child several drugs at the same time on your own, as this can lead to uncontrolled side effects in the child's body.

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

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

Storage conditions for laxatives for children

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

[ 39 ], [ 40 ], [ 41 ]

Best before date

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

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 traditional medicine, which are based only on herbal ingredients that are safe for the child's body, have effective healing properties. Children can be given laxatives only after consulting a doctor, who will select an effective remedy that quickly eliminates intestinal problems.

[ 42 ], [ 43 ], [ 44 ]

The names of laxatives for children help parents navigate the choice of a safe and effective drug for their child. Let's consider drugs to improve intestinal peristalsis:

Bisacodyl

A laxative with a carminative effect, accelerates intestinal peristalsis. The effect of the drug occurs a couple of hours after use. The drug is effective for constipation, for regulating stool in patients with hemorrhoids and anal fissures. It is used in preparation for operations, X-ray or instrumental studies.

• Bisacodyl is approved for use by pediatric patients. Thus, children aged 2-8 years are given 5 mg of the drug, 8-14 years - 10 mg, adults and teenagers - 5-15 mg. The drug is recommended to be taken at night or in the morning an hour before meals. The drug is available not only in tablet form, but also in the form of rectal suppositories. Suppositories are prescribed to children from 2 years old, the dosage is as follows: 2-7 years - 5 mg, 8-15 years - 10 mg, adults and teenagers - 10-20 mg.
• The laxative is contraindicated for use in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, 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. Bisacodyl causes colic in the intestinal area, diarrhea, arterial hypotension, general weakness, allergic reactions. Long-term use of tablets causes melanosis of the colon, hypokalemia, colitis. The drug is contraindicated to be taken simultaneously with antacids.

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

[ 45 ], [ 46 ], [ 47 ]

Lactulose

A 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 defecation. Available in bottles, as a syrup and as a powder.

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

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

Sodium picosulfate

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

• Main indications for use: constipation due to sluggish peristalsis of the colon, regulation of defecation in hemorrhoids and anal fissures. The tablets facilitate bowel movements in inoperable hernias, severe arterial hypertension.
• If the drug is prescribed for adolescents and adults, it is recommended to use both 10-drop 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 be increased or, conversely, decreased. Sodium picosulfate is taken before bedtime, since the effect occurs in about 6-8 hours.
• Contraindicated for use in cases of intestinal obstruction, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal organs, hernias, spastic constipation and for patients under 4 years of age.
• With prolonged use, it causes diarrhea, which causes electrolyte imbalance and contributes to the occurrence of cramps. The drug is not recommended for use longer than 10 days without medical supervision.

[ 52 ], [ 53 ], [ 54 ], [ 55 ]

Normacol

A laxative that increases the volume of feces. The product is available in powder form for making solutions. The active ingredient of Normacol is natural sterculium glue, i.e. plant mucus with hydrophilic properties. The product is not metabolized and is not absorbed in the digestive tract, improves peristalsis.

• The product is used to treat and prevent constipation. The dosage is selected individually for each patient. As a rule, 1-4 sachets are prescribed orally per day after meals.
• Normacol is contraindicated for use in acute abdomen syndrome and intestinal obstruction. If the dosage is chosen incorrectly, the medicine causes gas accumulation in the intestines 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.

[ 56 ], [ 57 ]

Vaseline oil

It is not absorbed and effectively softens feces. The product significantly increases the volume of the intestines and stimulates their 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 is 1-2 tablespoons per day between meals.

Vaseline oil is contraindicated for use in gastric ulcers, hemorrhoids, acute inflammatory diseases of the abdominal cavity. High doses can cause nausea, digestive disorders. In rare cases, itching and irritation in the anus area appear.

[ 58 ], [ 59 ], [ 60 ]

Castor oil

A herbal preparation made from castor oil seeds. After use, it breaks down in the small intestine and increases peristalsis. The laxative effect occurs after 5-6 hours. Castor oil is recommended for treating constipation. Children are prescribed 5-15 gelatin capsules of the preparation, teenagers 15-30 capsules.

The laxative is contraindicated for use in acute diseases of the abdominal cavity, i.e. peritonitis, ulcerative colitis, appendicitis. If the dosage is not followed or if used for a long time, the drug causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

In addition to the laxatives described above, the following medications can be used to treat constipation and bowel problems in children:

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

Laxatives for children should be selected as prescribed by a doctor. Parents should be careful when independently selecting drugs for their children. Be sure to carefully read the instructions and consult a doctor.

[ 61 ], [ 62 ]