Choosing A Safe And Gentle Laxative For Children

Laxatives are medicines that help treat constipation by aiding the body in getting rid of faecal matter. They are an essential part of the treatment of long-lasting constipation and soiling. While most laxatives are available over the counter at a pharmacy, it is recommended that you consult a doctor to get advice on the best laxative for your child and how much to give them. Doctors can also provide prescriptions for laxatives, which usually means you won't have to pay for the medicine.

Laxatives are a type of medicine that help the body get rid of poo

There are several laxatives available for children with constipation. Lactulose, for instance, is a liquid poo softener that is the most common medicine for constipation in children. It can be chilled or mixed with juice or milk to improve its taste. However, it is important that your child brushes their teeth after consuming lactulose.

Another option is sodium picosulphate, a liquid medicine that is tasteless and colourless, making it easier for children to take. It can also be used for a bowel washout, but only under medical supervision. Macrogol is a similar powder-based treatment that is particularly effective for children with very hard or impacted poo.

For babies and children with mild constipation, docusate/poloxamer drops are a good option. This treatment can also come in the form of capsules or tablets.

It is important to consult a doctor or healthcare provider before giving your child any laxatives, especially if they are to be used in conjunction with other treatments.

They are an essential treatment for long-lasting constipation and soiling

Laxatives are an essential treatment for long-lasting constipation and soiling. They are medicines that help the body get rid of faeces by softening stools, stimulating the bowel, or washing the bowel out completely. It is important to consult a doctor before giving laxatives to a child, as they may recommend specific types or doses depending on the child's age, weight, and severity of constipation.

Laxatives are necessary until the child can develop a normal habit of passing stools regularly without assistance. This process may take months or even years, and it is crucial to continue the treatment until the child's body can manage it independently. It is also important to make sure that children get enough fibre and fluids and have scheduled toilet time after meals.

There are several types of laxatives commonly used to treat constipation in children. These include stool softeners, osmotic laxatives, lubricant laxatives, and stimulant laxatives. Stool softeners add moisture to the stool, making it easier to pass. Osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol, increase the amount of water in the intestines, facilitating stool passage. Lubricant laxatives coat the stool to make it more slippery, while stimulant laxatives stimulate the rectal muscles to aid in pushing the stool out.

It is important to note that laxatives should not be combined without the approval of a paediatrician or paediatric gastrointestinal specialist. Additionally, stimulant laxatives, such as senna and bisacodyl, should be used with caution as they may cause cramping, dehydration, and fluid and electrolyte imbalances.

Four types of laxatives are commonly used: stool softeners, osmotic laxatives, lubricant laxatives, and stimulant laxatives

Laxatives are medicines that help treat constipation in children by aiding the body to get rid of faeces. They are an essential part of the treatment of long-lasting constipation and soiling.

There are four types of laxatives commonly used:

• Stool softeners
• Osmotic laxatives
• Lubricant laxatives
• Stimulant laxatives

Stool softeners add moisture to the stool, allowing strain-free bowel movements. Osmotic laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol (found in products like MiraLAX and Dulcolax Balance) and lactulose, increase the amount of water in the intestines, making it easier for stool to pass through. Lubricant laxatives coat the stool, making it more slippery and easier to pass. Finally, stimulant laxatives stimulate the rectal muscles to help push the stool out.

It is important to note that laxatives are meant for the relief of short-term constipation. If your child is experiencing constipation, it is recommended to consult a doctor or paediatrician to determine the best course of treatment.

Laxatives are available in oral and rectal forms

Laxatives are a group of medications that help treat constipation so that stools are easier to pass. They are available in oral and rectal forms. Oral laxatives can be in the form of pills or a powder that is mixed with water. Rectal laxatives are in the form of suppositories and enemas.

There are four types of laxatives:

• Stool softeners: These add moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Examples include Colace, Pedia-Lax Liquid Stool Softener, and Dulcolax Stool Softener.
• Osmotic laxatives: Osmotic laxatives increase the amount of water in the intestines, allowing for easier passage of stool. Polyethylene glycol (Miralax) is the most commonly used osmotic laxative and is considered a first-choice treatment. Lactulose is another type of osmotic laxative that is safe for all ages.
• Lubricant laxatives: Lubricant laxatives coat the stool, making it more slippery and easier to pass. Mineral oil is the most commonly used lubricant and is typically used in children over three years old.
• Stimulant laxatives: These stimulate the rectal muscles to help push the stool out. Stimulant laxatives include medications like bisacodyl (Dulcolax). They are usually reserved for children with more severe constipation who do not respond to high-fiber diets and osmotic laxatives.

It is important to follow dosage instructions closely and not give more than one type of laxative at a time. Laxatives are generally safe to use in children, but it is always recommended to consult a doctor or paediatrician before starting any new medication for your child.

It is important to consult a doctor before giving your child a laxative

There are many over-the-counter laxatives available for children, which can help to relieve constipation. However, it is important to consult a doctor before giving your child a laxative.

Firstly, laxatives are not recommended for babies who have not yet been weaned. If your baby is constipated, try giving them extra water between feeds. Gently massaging their tummy and moving their legs in a cycling motion may also help.

Secondly, laxatives should not be given to children without a doctor's approval and instructions on the proper dose. A doctor will be able to advise on the best laxative for your child and how much to give them. They will also be able to advise on any potential side effects and how to avoid them. For example, stimulant laxatives may cause cramping, dehydration, and fluid and electrolyte imbalances, so should not be used for long periods of time.

Thirdly, constipation can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. A doctor will be able to assess your child and determine if there are any underlying causes for the constipation. They may recommend more extensive testing, such as an abdominal X-ray or blood tests, to rule out any serious conditions.

Finally, a doctor can advise on alternative treatments to laxatives. For example, increasing your child's fibre and fluid intake, scheduling toilet time after meals, and encouraging physical activity can all help to relieve constipation.

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