Abstract

Objective: Constipation is a very common complaint seen in children. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy of treatment of Lactulose used as laxative and sennoside in the treatment of child patients with chronic constipation.

Material and Methods: Between July 2013-June 2014 the records of the 2 to 10 years old patients that presented to the pediatric surgery clinic and diagnosed with functional constipation were evaluated retrospectively. Concomitant symptoms, duration of symptoms, the onset of constipation age, the first postnatal day meconium output, defecation frequency and consistency, diet, performed treatment, clinical course and response to treatment were evaluated in patients who used Lactulose as oral laxative and Sennoside.

Results: Before treatment, in lactulose group, it was observed that 31 (63.2 %) patients defecated once in 3-4 day, 15 (30.6 %) patients once in 4-7 day, 3 (6.2 %) patients once in 7 or more days. In Sennosid group 34 (64.1 %) patients defecated once in 3-4 day, 13 (24.5 %) patients once in 4-7 day, 6 (11.3 %) patients once in 7 or more days. 30 of 49 patients (61.22 %) responded to treatment in patients performed lactulose treatment and 52 of 53 patients (98.11 %) responded to treatment in patients performed Sennoside treatment (p =0.042). Sennoside treatment was used in patients who did not respond Lactulose treatment. All patients responded the Sennoside treatment.

Conclusion: In the treatment of chronic constipation, using Sennoside is more successful than using Lactulose. Sennoside can be used as the first option in the treatment of chronic constipation.