Lubricant Versus Laxative in the Treatment of Chronic Functional Constipation of Children

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.