Open AccessLubricant Versus Laxative in the Treatment of Chronic Functional Constipation of Children
Author(s) -
Sondheimer Jm,
Gervaise Ep
Publication year - 1982
Publication title -
journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.206
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1536-4801
pISSN - 0277-2116
DOI - 10.1097/00005176-198201020-00012
Subject(s) - medicine , laxative , senna , constipation , mineral oil , chronic constipation , functional constipation , cathartic , surgery , traditional medicine , chemistry , organic chemistry
The efficacy of two medications commonly used in treatment of chronic functional constipation of children (CFC) was compared. Thirty-seven children (aged 3-12 years) with typical CFC were assigned at random to treatment with mineral oil or standardized senna concentrate (Senokot). The results of follow-up evaluations at 1, 3, and greater than 6 months indicate that symptom control (fecal soiling and decreased stool frequency) was significantly better in mineral-oil-treated patients. At least one recurrence of symptoms occurred in 66% of mineral-oil-treated and 89% of Senokot-treated patients. However, recurrences appeared later and less frequently in mineral-oil-treated patients. After 6 months, 55% of those treated with mineral oil had successfully discontinued regular medication. After 6 months, only 22% of Senokot-treated patients had successfully discontinued medication, while an additional 33% had stopped taking medication because of poor symptom control.