HealthInfo Canterbury
Medications for constipation in children
Rongoā mō te kōroke ki ngā tamariki
Laxatives are medications that help the body get rid of poo. Most are available over the counter at a pharmacy. Your GP or pharmacist can advise you on the type and dosage needed.
Laxatives for child constipation
- Poo softeners make it easier for your tamaiti (child) to pass poo. These are the main types of laxatives used for tamariki (children). Lactulose is one brand that's commonly used. It comes as a sweet tasting liquid. Your tamaiti child might find it tastes better if you chill it or mix it with juice or milk.
- Stimulants or emptiers are the other types of laxatives that might be given to tamariki children . They help the bowel push the poo out. Senna is one brand that's often used. It comes as a tablet.
The purpose of laxatives is to allow your tamaiti to develop a normal bowel habit. Ideally they should be passing one soft but formed poo a day.
Tamariki often need laxatives for many months. Don't suddenly stop prescribed laxatives, as this can cause the constipation to come back. Your child's doctor will normally advise you to gradually reduce the dose over time.
For more details read this useful Laxative factsheet from KidsHealth.
Other treatments
If your tamaiti has severe constipation with hard or impacted (tightly blocked or wedged in) poo, they'll need a higher dose of laxatives. In some cases, other treatments may be required to clear the blockage. These include suppositories and mini-enemas.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed February 2022.
Review key: HICOC-14683
