Constipation

Question 1

Psyllium

Answer 1

DONT GIVE IF TAKING OPIOIDS or if already have good fiber intake
- First week –> take 1 tablet twice daily before the morning and evening meals
- Second week –> take 1 tablet daily before meal
- Adverse effects: abdominal discomfort / flatulence / bloating
- P+BF SAFE

Question 2

Macrogol (13.5g) sachets

Answer 2

• Osmotic laxative
• P+BF SAFE
• 1 sachet in 125mL of water up to 2-3 sachets a day on an empty stomach
• Adverse effects: abdominal discomfort, flatulence

Question 3

Macrogol for kids (6.5mg) sachets

Answer 3

<1yr: 1/2 sachet in 30mL /day
1-5 yrs: 1 sachet/day in 60mL of liquid
>6: 2 sachets in 120mL
- adverse effects: abdominal discomfort / flatulence

Question 4

Senna (8mg) + docusate (50mg)

Answer 4

• Use if on other meds
  -DOSE: adults, children > 12; 1-2 tablets at night for bowel movement in the morning
• P+BF SAFE (USE LOWEST DOSE)
• Adverse effects: abdominal discomfort, flatulence

Question 5

Poloxamer (100mg/ml)

Answer 5

• Use dosing syringe provided
• administer 3 times daily in water or fruit juice
• < 6m: 0.3mL
• 6-18m: 0.5 mL
• 18-36m: 0.8mL

Question 6

Constipation referral

Answer 6

• blood or mucus in stools
• anorectal pain
• fever
• unexplained weight loss
• vomiting
• tiredness
• anorexia
• severe abdominal pain