When faced with limited options for relieving children's constipation, many physicians admit to having recommended laxatives that are formulated for adults- however such products may present palatability and dosing problems that limit laxative compliance in children. Child-appropriate palatability and ease of use are just 2 of the compliance-related factors considered in a new line of pediatric laxatives. Clinicians who treat pediatric constipation may be interested in obtaining information about these products, which have been formulated specifically for children.

Medication variables such as frequency, duration of treatment, cost, and palatability have recognized effects on compliance within the pediatric population. Palatability, in particular, may be key to compliance with products like oral pediatric laxatives.^1,2

It is self-evident that a laxative medication cannot be effective if a child doesn't take it. For this and other reasons, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) acknowledges the association between children's compliance and medication factors such as palatability and dosage formulation.³

Yet when faced with limited options for relieving children's constipation, many physicians-including 59% of surveyed pediatricians-admit to most often recommending laxatives that are formulated for adults.⁴ Such adult products may present palatability and dosing problems that limit patient compliance.

New Pedia-Lax line of pediatric laxatives offers compliance-encouraging, palatable formulations.

Reference for article:

1. Matsui D. Current issues in pediatric medication adherence. Paediatr Drugs. 2007; 9(5):283-288

2. Ramgoolam A, Steel R. Formulations of antibiotics for children in primary care: effects on compliance and efficacy. Paediatr Drugs. 2002;4(5):323-333.

3. Winnick S, Lucas DO, Hartman AL, Toll D. How Do You Improve Compliance? Pediatrics, 2005;115;e718-e724. Available at: www.pediatrics.org, Accessed April 9, 2008.

4. Fleet proprietary research, AcuPoll, January 2006, sample size of 101 pediatricians.

5. North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. Clinical Practice Guideline: Evaluation and treatment of constipation in infants and children. J Ped Gastroent Nutr. 2006; 43(3): e1-e13; 405-407.

Read more Relevant articles >>