What are the potential side effects of common laxatives used in childr

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Potential side effects of commonly used laxatives in children include:

Hard stools or stool withholding if laxatives are not used appropriately, which can lead to re-impaction or worsening constipation .
Abdominal pain and bloating, especially initially during disimpaction treatment .
Increased symptoms of soiling during disimpaction, which may be temporary .
Adverse effects specific to certain laxatives, such as electrolyte imbalance with electrolyte-containing macrogols, though these are generally well tolerated .

Strategies to mitigate these side effects include:

Gradually reducing the dose of laxatives over months once regular bowel habits are established to prevent re-impaction and maintain stool consistency .
Ensuring adherence to prescribed regimens and regular follow-up to monitor response and side effects .
Using the Bristol Stool Form Scale to assess stool consistency and adjust treatment accordingly .
Providing tailored dietary advice to ensure adequate fluid and fibre intake, which can help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort and improve stool consistency .
Starting treatment early to prevent long-term complications and avoid abrupt cessation of laxatives, which can cause relapse .

What are the potential side effects of common laxatives used in children, and how can I mitigate them?