Kiddie Poop, Part 2: Constipation Medications for Children

Children get constipated very often and everyone has advice to offer, such as increasing fluids and fiber, drinking prune juice or getting exercise. Home remedies can actually be very effective and should always be tried first. However, sometimes your doctor may suggest medical treatment. You should be honest with your pediatrician about what you have tried and are willing to try. It can help to know your options before you see the pediatrician.

Oral treatments may include oil, milk of magnesium, fiber supplements, laxatives and stimulants. Oil should never be used in infants, babies or toddlers because if they gag on the oil, it may go in their lungs and cause breathing problems. Older children can tolerate oil well, especially if it is mixed with orange juice. The oil makes the intestinal tract slippery and helps facilitate the bowel movement, but the stool may still remain hard. Magnesium treatment stimulates the bowels to move better but children do not usually like the taste or texture. Some fiber supplements can be gritty while others can be easier to tolerate. These are very helpful to soften the stool, but they must be consumed with plenty of water or juice to work. These are the most popular solutions and are available without a prescription. Stimulants, though necessary for some conditions, are not usually recommended for children as they can cause discomfort. Overuse of these medications may lead to diarrhea and dehydration.

Treatments for the bottom may include suppositories or enemas. In general these are a little more traumatic for both the parent and child. If the stool is very impacted it may be necessary to start with this route and then follow with oral treatments so impaction does not recur. Glycerin suppositories are available for infants and children, and if they seem big parents may cut them in half, though that's not usually necessary. Enemas should be used for older children and not frequently since it may cause electrolyte changes in the body. Children should be monitored carefully by a doctor before taking any of these medications and while using the medications as well. Do not forget to continue the non-medication remedies as well while on treatment.