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[Lactitol in chronic idiopathic constipation in children]
G Pitzalis1, F Deganello, P Mariani
1I Clinica Pediatrica, Università La Sapienza di Roma.
Summary
Lactitol and lactulose effectively treat chronic idiopathic constipation in children, increasing stool frequency. Lactitol is preferred due to fewer side effects like abdominal pain and flatus.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Nutrition
Background:
- Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a common pediatric gastrointestinal disorder.
- Lactulose and lactitol are commonly used osmotic laxatives for CIC.
- Limited comparative data exists on their efficacy and tolerability in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and tolerability of lactitol versus lactulose in treating pediatric CIC.
- To evaluate the impact of these treatments on orocecal transit time.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 51 children with CIC (ages 8 months–16 years).
- Group A received lactitol (250-400 mg/kg/day), Group B received lactulose (500-750 mg/kg/day) for 30 days.
- Clinical response was assessed via parental questionnaires; orocecal transit time was measured using the H2 Breath Test.
Main Results:
- Both lactitol and lactulose significantly increased weekly stool frequency (p < 0.001).
- Lactulose group reported significantly more abdominal pain (p < 0.005) and flatus (p < 0.001).
- Lactitol showed better palatability and compliance; orocecal transit time was unaffected by either treatment.
Conclusions:
- Lactitol is an effective treatment for pediatric CIC with a better side effect profile than lactulose.
- Lactitol offers improved palatability and compliance, making it a potentially superior option for managing CIC in children.