Experiences in Treatment With Polyethylene Glycol in Children With Chronic Constipation

Abstract

Purpose: We evaluated the efficacy of Movicol^® for treating children with chronic constipation.

Methods: Children with chronic constipation treated with Movicol^® between November 2018 and May 2019 were divided into two groups: the initial treatment group with no prior treatment for chronic constipation and the transitional group post-treated with magnesium oxide and/or sodium picosulfate. We retrospectively analyzed their profiles, availability of oral Movicol^®, improvement in the number of defecations and stool form, and need for glycerin enema after treatment with Movicol^® considering efficacy and side effects. We surveyed patient satisfaction using a questionnaire via telephone.

Results: Of 36 children, eight were in the initial treatment treat and 28 in the transitional group; 33 children (91.7%) could take this medicine orally. The number of defecations increased in both groups, and stool form improved in the transitional group. Almost all children from both groups did not require enema. The efficacy of Movicol^® for chronic constipation was confirmed in six children in the initial treatment group and 21 children in the transitional group 2–4 weeks after starting the treatment. It was also confirmed in five children in the initial treatment group and 25 children in the transitional group one and half to two years after starting treatment. Diarrhea was observed in one patient, but no severe side effects were observed. Thirty-three patients (91.7%) responded to the patient satisfaction questionnaire with an average satisfaction rating of 7.3 on a 10-point scale.

Conclusion: Movicol^® can be administered orally in children (91.7%), is effective in both groups, and can be the first treatment of choice.