[Clinical trial of cellulose in treatment of functional constipation in children].

Objective: To study the efficacy and safety of cellulose for the treatment of functional constipation in children.

Methods: A prospective, self-controlled, clinical trial using cellulose was conducted for 2 weeks in 34 children with functional constipation. The constipation symptoms and the characteristics of feces after the treatment were observed.

Results: The characteristics of feces and the constipation symptoms were improved significantly after the treatment. The total efficacy rate was 37% 3 days after treatment, 87% 7 days after treatment and 90% 14 days after treatment. The satisfactory rates of doctors and children's parents on the therapeutic effects were 57% and 63%, respectively. No adverse events, such as abdominal distention, pain or diarrhea, were observed during the treatment.

Conclusions: Cellulose is effective and safe in the treatment of functional constipation in children.