Summary: Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders among children and adolescents, affecting up to 10% of patients in this age group. In children and adolescents, constipation is most often functional in nature (about 90% of cases). Symptoms of functional constipation primarily include a reduced frequency of bowel movements combined with difficulties in passing stools (pain during defecation, a feeling of obstruction in the intestines, hard stool consistency).
The clinical diagnosis of functional constipation should be conducted according to the Rome IV Criteria and requires the interpretation of results from subjective and objective examinations and additional tests (laboratory tests, specialised examinations).
It is recommended that functional constipation be treated using a combination of both non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods.
Among the non-pharmacological approaches, introducing a fiber-rich diet, increasing fluid intake, and educating the child and their caregivers about lifestyle changes are particularly emphasized. According to ESPGHAN recommendations, medications registered for the treatment of constipation primarily include osmotic laxatives and contact (irritant) agents. Among these, substances such as bisacodyl, senna, and sodium picosulfate are included. Among contact agents, sodium picosulfate stands out due to its high efficacy in therapy and a low incidence of adverse effects and drug interactions.