Question

A 5-year-old boy presents with infrequent, hard stools, abdominal pain and stool withholding behaviour. He passes a stool every 5–6 days. Examination is otherwise normal. According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate first-line pharmacological treatment?

Accepted Answer

Macrogol (polyethylene glycol) as first-line, adding stimulant laxative if needed

Answer

Senna alone

Answer

High-dose Codeine

Answer

No pharmacological treatment

Answer

Long-term enemas

Practice question

A 5-year-old boy presents with infrequent, hard stools, abdominal pain and stool withholding behaviour. He passes a stool every 5–6 days. Examination is otherwise normal. According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate first-line pharmacological treatment?