10 best candles for constipation for children
Problems with the gastrointestinal tract in a child can cause a lot of trouble for parents. Fortunately, there are drugs that help quickly resolve the issue. Let’s talk about the best candles for constipation for children

Constipation is a disorder of the intestines, in which there is a difficult, rare, painful bowel movement. Problems with stool occur not only in adults, but also in toddlers and adolescents. Constipation in Our Country, according to various sources, affects from 10 to 40% of children (1). 

This disease can be associated with congenital pathologies in the intestines, malformations, tumor processes and sometimes requires immediate examination to avoid complications (2).

But in most cases, constipation is diagnosed as functional. Main reasons: 

  • the use of fixatives,
  • diet,
  • eating low fiber foods
  • fluid intake is less than normal.

If the stool is first time and/or the child has hard stools, a change in diet may help. Add more fiber, fruits, vegetables, berries to the menu and let your child drink more often.

If there is no improvement, you may need to take laxatives. They are presented in different forms: syrups, drops, tablets, suppositories. The latter is one of the most popular ways to eliminate constipation in a child. Especially if the baby categorically refuses to take the medicine inside.

Rating of the top 10 candles for constipation for children

Consider the best candles for constipation for children according to the KP version and, together with an expert, we will determine how to choose the right drugs and use them.

1. “Glycerin”

The drug softens the feces and activates the intestines, facilitating the process of defecation. The manufacturer claims the fast action of the candles: the effect occurs in 5-10 minutes. 

It is undesirable to use glycerin suppositories for more than a week, as they can be addictive. If the symptoms of constipation do not go away for a long time, you should consult a doctor for a treatment correction.

It is allowed to store a laxative at room temperature, but not higher than 25 ° C.

Main characteristics

Active substanceGlycerol
AgeSince 5 years
dosageFrom 5-12 years old – 1,24 g; from 12 years old – 2,11 g
Application frequency1 suppository 1 time per day
Противопоказания• irritable bowel syndrome

• intestinal obstruction

• hemorrhoids and anal fissures

• inflammation and tumors in the rectum

• hemorrhagic rectocolitis

• appendicitis

• diarrhea

• children’s age up to 5 years

Advantages and disadvantages

Quick effect; does not need to be stored in the refrigerator.
Can not be used up to 5 years; restrictions on the duration of treatment (it is undesirable to use more than a week without a doctor’s prescription).
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2. “Glicelaks”

Suppositories with glycerol in the composition soften hardened feces and facilitate its passage through the intestines. They are used when a quick solution is needed: after the introduction of the drug into the rectum, defecation occurs after 5-10 minutes. 

Once the child’s bowel function has improved, the laxative should be discontinued to avoid addiction. The recommended period of use is no more than a week. 

Store at 8-15°C.

Main characteristics

Active substanceGlycerol
AgeFrom 3 months
dosage0,75 g
Application frequency1-2 suppositories per day
Противопоказания• hypersensitivity

• hemorrhoids in the acute period

• infectious or tumor processes in the intestines

Advantages and disadvantages

Suitable for children from 3 months; fast action without pain and tension; small candles.
You can not violate the temperature regime; prolonged use may lead to increased stool problems.
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3. “Bisakodil”

The laxative enhances intestinal peristalsis and increases the amount of mucus, due to this there is a rapid cleansing of the body. The effect of the drug occurs within an hour. 

At the time of treatment with candles, you should stop drinking milk and alkaline mineral water. Do not use “Bisacodyl” in a large dose or for more than 7 days, as this can adversely affect the functioning of the intestine: it becomes “lazy”. 

Suppositories can be stored outside the refrigerator, at temperatures up to 25 ° C. 

Main characteristics

Active substanceBisacodyl
AgeSince 2 years
dosage10 mg
Application frequency2-7 years – 0,5 suppositories; 8-14 years – 1 suppository; from 15 years old – 1,5 suppositories per day
Противопоказания• intestinal obstruction

• acute proctitis or hemorrhoids

• strangulated hernia

• cystitis

• “sheep feces”

Advantages and disadvantages

Low price in the segment of laxatives for children; can be used from 2 years.
For children under 7 years of age, candles must be divided; side effects are colicky pain and diarrhea.
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4. Phytocandles No. 14 “Laxatives”

It is a mild laxative, so they can be a good help to solve the problem of constipation in children. They are not addictive and do not disturb the intestinal microflora. The composition of the candles includes additional components. Cocoa butter has protective properties against infections, propolis is known for its antimicrobial activity, and the essential oils of lemon, marjoram and eucalyptus help reduce gas and pain.

The course is 10 days, then you should take a break of 5-7 days, repeat if necessary. To keep the suppositories firm, keep them at 3-5°C.

Main characteristics

Active substanceVegetable glycerin, castor oil
AgeWith 1 year
dosageNo information
Application frequency1-7 years – 0,5 suppositories; from 8 years old – 1 suppository per day
ПротивопоказанияIndividual intolerance to the components of the composition

Advantages and disadvantages

Can be used from 1 year; minimum contraindications; the number of courses is not limited.
Store only in the refrigerator; not very convenient to use for children under 7 years old – candles need to be divided in half.
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5. “Dulcolax”

The drug helps to contract the walls of the intestine to move the contents and softens the stool. After the introduction of the suppository, the action occurs after 30 minutes. Apply these suppositories for no more than 7 days. It is not recommended to use this drug for a longer time, as this can provoke the appearance of chronic constipation. 

Children can take “Dulcolax” only on the recommendation of a doctor and not earlier than 6 years of age.

Main characteristics

Active substanceBisacodyl
AgeSince 6 years
dosage10 mg
Application frequency6-10 years – 0,5 candles; from 10 years old – 1 suppository 1-2 times a day
Противопоказания• acute inflammatory bowel disease

• dehydration

• tumor processes in the colon

• strangulated hernia

• “sheep feces”

• obstruction in the intestines

Advantages and disadvantages

Soft action; fast effect.
May adversely affect bowel function with prolonged use; a large list of contraindications; should not be used before 6 years of age.
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6. “Mikrolax”

These are not suppositories in their typical form – the drug is presented in the format of microclysters. Due to the active substances, it dilutes the contents of the intestine, stimulates the flow of water and facilitates emptying. The drug begins to act after 5-15 minutes. 

It is optimal to put a microclyster 1 time in 2-3 days. In addition, there are restrictions on the combined use of Microlax with some other drugs, since there is a possibility of intestinal cell death. Carefully study the instructions and be sure to consult a doctor. 

An important plus is that microclysters can be stored at room temperature.

Main characteristics

Active substanceSodium citrate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, sorbitol
Age0+
dosage5 ml
Application frequency1 microclyster per day (optimally – no more than once every 2-3 days)
ПротивопоказанияHypersensitivity to the components of the drug

Advantages and disadvantages

Suitable for the whole family, incl. for newborns; not addictive; minimal list of contraindications.
Discomfort and burning in the rectum are possible; may be inconvenient to apply for those used to candles; high price in the segment.
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7. Candles Altai-Starover “Weak”

The drug has a laxative effect, in addition, the natural components of suppositories nourish and soften tissues, help relieve pain, have a strengthening, resolving, antimicrobial effect. 

Candles are recommended for use not only for constipation, but are also used for symptoms of hemorrhoids and some diseases of the uterus, for poisoning. But the list of contraindications is quite impressive. And by the way, young children (under 12 years old) should not use this drug.

Candles cannot be combined with preparations containing male fern extract.

Main characteristics

Active substanceWitepsol, castor oil, buckthorn bark extract
AgeSince 12 years
dosage22 gr
Application frequency1-2 suppositories per day
Противопоказания• intolerance to components

• acute inflammation and pain in the gastrointestinal tract

• stomach ulcer

• pyelonephritis

Advantages and disadvantages

Wide spectrum of action; natural composition.
Can only be used from 12 years old; causes dependence on long-term use.
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8. “Glycerin suppositories”

Due to the action of glycerol, the drug irritates the mucous membrane of the rectum and softens the stool. The instructions indicate that you need to enter the candle 15-20 minutes after breakfast. The result should come in 5-10 minutes.

Depending on the age of the child, choose the dosage: suppositories with 1405 mg of the active substance are suitable for children from 5 years old, and a dosage of 2100 mg is for adults and adolescents from 12 years old.

It is not recommended to systematically use these candles, as it can cause allergic reactions.

Main characteristics

Active substanceGlycerol
AgeFrom 5 years old, from 12 years old
dosage1405 mg, 2100 mg
Application frequency1 suppository per day (dosage according to age)
Противопоказания• hemorrhoids and anal fissures

• inflammatory diseases and tumors of the rectum

• high sensitivity to glycerol

Advantages and disadvantages

Fast action; minimal risk of side effects (only with long-term use); can be stored at room temperature.
Not suitable for young children (only from 5 years old or from 12 – depending on the dosage); prolonged use can provoke loose stools.
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9. “Guttalax”

The drug acts at the level of the colon and does not affect the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The laxative effect occurs in the range of 10-45 minutes. 

Suppositories can be used to relieve constipation in children, but the age must be at least 10 years.

Like many analogues, there are restrictions on the duration of use of this drug: you should not put candles for more than 10 days in a row. 

To achieve complete emptying, it is recommended to use in conjunction with bisacodyl tablets. Please note that they also have an age threshold.

Main characteristics

Active substanceBisacodyl
AgeSince 10 years
dosage10 mg
Application frequencyFrom 10 years old – 1 suppository per day
Противопоказания• intolerance to components

• acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

• bowel obstruction

Advantages and disadvantages

Does not disrupt the absorption of nutrients; can be stored at temperatures up to 25 °C.
It may take time to get results; possible side effects (pain and diarrhea); not recommended for use under 10 years.
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10. “Modelax”

The drug is presented in the form of microclysters: the tip is inserted into the anus, after which the contents are squeezed out. It is a more hygienic alternative to regular candles. In addition, Modelax is also suitable for children from birth.

The complex of active substances increases the amount of water in the intestines, which makes it possible to soften the feces. The result is an easy bowel cleansing. The result can be obtained in 5-15 minutes. 

Long-term use of the drug should be avoided. Simultaneous administration with drugs is contraindicated, prescribed for the treatment of hyperkalemia (in order to avoid necrosis of the large intestine).

Main characteristics

Active substanceSodium citrate dihydrate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, sorbitol
Age0+
dosage5 ml
Application frequency1 microclyster per day
ПротивопоказанияIncreased individual sensitivity to the components of the drug

Advantages and disadvantages

Minimum side effects and contraindications; can be used from birth.
Not very convenient to use (for those who are used to using candles); cannot be used for a long time.
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How to choose candles for constipation for children

Candles for constipation, which can also be used in children, have a diverse composition and a strict list of contraindications. When there is a need to use suppositories and how to choose the right drug, our expert tells, pediatrician, gastroenterologist Ekaterina Leontieva.

Often functional constipation in children develops from at least one episode of fecal retention. The reason may be:

  • stress,
  • uncomfortable toilet,
  • new place,
  • start potty training
  • start school attendance

As a result of the containment, the feces become dense, hard and defecation is painful. After such an experience, the baby will begin to consciously hold the chair, resist the urge and pinch. A vicious circle is formed: retention – dense feces – pain – retention again. 

Prolonged accumulation of feces leads to the fact that the intestinal wall is stretched, reacts worse to the urge to defecate and the child loses the habit of regular bowel movements.

In some cases, the likelihood of constipation may be affected by:

  • lack of dietary fiber
  • low percentage of fluid intake,
  • low physical activity
  • some medications.

When choosing candles, it is necessary to take into account the factors that lead to stool retention, as well as age. 

– Rectal suppositories are allowed from 2 years. There are drugs that are allowed according to the instructions from 3 months, but use at this age is possible strictly after examination and doctor’s prescription, emphasizes Ekaterina Leontieva.

The safest for use in childhood are glycerol-based suppositories. If a delay occurs for the first time, parents can put candles once without a doctor’s prescription. If the problem recurs and brings severe discomfort to the child and parents, an examination by either a pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist is definitely necessary. The doctor will diagnose and help you choose the right laxative suppositories for constipation.

Popular questions and answers

When a child suffers from constipation – often or one-time – many questions arise for parents. What are the best tools to use? How to apply them correctly? These and other questions are answered by pediatrician, gastroenterologist Ekaterina Leontieva.

How to understand that a child has constipation?

There are several situations when you can say that a child has constipation.

• The baby has two or fewer bowel movements per week, hard hard stools, prolonged straining during bowel movements. 

• A child older than one year pushes hard, hides, may choose certain positions for defecation, for example, standing. Often such children are afraid to sit on the potty, avoid it.

Mothers of children under 5 months of age may confuse constipation with colic. With colic, unreasonable crying can be observed for about three hours at least three times a week. However, the baby adds well, eats, sleeps, and soft stools pass regularly. If, in addition to crying, there is a dense stool, straining during defecation and emptying does not occur daily, this is constipation.

What to do if a child has constipation?

A laxative should be given to the child on the second day after the onset of constipation, if the baby pushes for a long time, cries and / or hides or is afraid of the pot. As a means to soften the stool and easy bowel movements, drugs are used orally or rectally. In the case when it is not possible to drink a laxative, they put candles approved for use in children.

How to put candles for children?

• If the candle is soft, put it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. 

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and wear gloves. 

• Lubricate the anus area with cream. 

• Lay the child on its side and press the knees against the stomach. 

• Raise the buttock, insert the candle with the rounded end and push with the little finger 1,5 cm.

• Squeeze your buttocks for 10 minutes to prevent the suppository from popping back out and dissolving (14).

How often can candles be given to children?

You can use suppositories no more than once a day. If within a week the problem of constipation persists, then it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Sources of

  1. Functional constipation in children of different age groups. URL: https://www.rmj.ru/articles/gastroenterologiya/Funkcionalynyy_zapor_u_detey_raznyh_vozrastnyh_grupp/
  2. Episodic and chronic constipation in children: a stepwise approach to therapy within the Rome IX criteria. URL: https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/epizodicheskie-i-chronicheskie-zapory-u-detey-poshagovyy-podhod-k-terapii-v-ramkah-iv-rimskih-kriteriev/viewer
  3. Register of medicines of Our Country. URL: https://www.rlsnet.ru/drugs/glycerin-4173
  4. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/glycerin-2
  5. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/glycelax__20249
  6. Register of medicines of Our Country. URL: https://www.rlsnet.ru/drugs/glicelaks-11798
  7. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/bisacodyl-altpharm__20525
  8. Register of medicines of Our Country. URL: https://www.rlsnet.ru/drugs/dulkolaks-1297
  9. Register of medicines of Our Country. URL: https://www.rlsnet.ru/drugs/mikrolaks-11820
  10. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/microlax__7211
  11. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/glycerin_suppositories__42757
  12. Vidal Medicines Guide. URL: https://www.vidal.ru/drugs/modelax-h
  13. Register of medicines of Our Country. URL: https://www.rlsnet.ru/drugs/modelaks-n-87018
  14. Medical information portal Kronkolit. How to insert rectal suppositories. URL: https://kronkolit.pro/kak-vstavlyat-rektalnyye-suppozitorii/

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