Use of polyethylene glycol in children less than 3 years of age

ABSTRACT

Chronic constipation is extremely common gastrointestinal problem in children. Polyethylene glycol [PEG] has been shown to be effective for both disimpaction and maintenance treatment in older children with chronic constipation. Literature review was carried out using Medline via PubMed [1950 to 2010], Cinahl [1982 - 2010] and Embase [1974 to 2010] to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PEG in infants and children less than 3 years of age. There were no relevant reviews in the Cochrane Library. Only 5 relevant studies were found for children in the age group below 3 years. Pooled analysis of all the studies showed a statistically significant difference in the stool frequency before and after treatment with polyethylene glycol [p < 0.001]. Although, limited published evidence to date supports its use in terms of safety and efficacy, larger randomized controlled trials are needed especially in young infants to substantiate the evidence