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Adding Senna alkaloid to laxative agents in bowel preparation for pediatric colonoscopy: a clinical trial study

Seyedeh Maryam Mahdavi Mortazavi1, Mohammad Hadi Immanieh2, Naser Honar1

  • 1Neonatal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.

Arab Journal of Gastroenterology : the Official Publication of the Pan-Arab Association of Gastroenterology
|March 22, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Adding Senna alkaloid syrup to laxative agents significantly improved bowel preparation for pediatric colonoscopy. This enhanced method resulted in better colon cleansing and no reported side effects, suggesting its potential as a standard practice.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Endoscopy Procedures
  • Pharmacological Interventions

Background:

  • Effective bowel preparation is essential for successful pediatric colonoscopy.
  • Current laxative agents may have limitations in achieving optimal colon cleansing in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding Senna alkaloid syrup to conventional laxative agents for bowel preparation in children undergoing colonoscopy.

Main Methods:

  • A double-blind, controlled trial was conducted with 64 pediatric patients randomized into two groups.
  • One group received conventional laxatives, while the other received conventional agents plus Senna alkaloid syrup (polyethylene glycol-3350).
  • Colon cleansing was assessed using the Aronchick Scale, with safety evaluations performed.

Main Results:

  • The Senna group demonstrated statistically significant improvement in colon cleansing compared to the conventional group (p < 0.001).
  • No children in the Senna group required repeat bowel preparation.
  • No adverse side effects were reported in either the Senna or control groups.

Conclusions:

  • Incorporating Senna alkaloid syrup into bowel preparation protocols enhances colon cleansing efficacy for pediatric colonoscopy.
  • This approach appears safe and may represent a valuable addition to standard pediatric colonoscopy preparation.
  • Further integration into routine practice is suggested based on positive outcomes.
Abstract

Keywords:
Bowel preparationChildrenColonoscopyPolyethylene glycolSenagraph

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