A dose determination study of polyethylene glycol 4000 in constipated children: factors influencing the maintenance dose.

Objectives: To determine the doses of polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 without additional salts allowing normal bowel habits in childhood functional constipation.

Methods: This multicenter noncomparative study allocated children to 4 groups: 6-12 months, 13 months-3 years, 4-7 years, and 8-15 years. Constipation was defined as <1 stool/d for more than 1 month in children aged 6-12 months and <3 stools/w for more than 3 months in older children.