What are the recommended first-line treatments for managing constipation in children?

First-line treatments for managing constipation in children include the use of oral laxatives, specifically macrogol (Movicol® Paediatric Plain), which is recommended as the initial treatment for maintenance therapy because it works quickly, is easy to titrate, well tolerated, and can have flavor added to improve adherence NICE CKS.

In cases of faecal impaction, an oral laxative regimen with polyethylene glycol 3350 + electrolytes using an escalating dose is advised as first-line treatment for disimpaction, with the option to add a stimulant laxative if disimpaction is not achieved after 2 weeks NICE CG99.