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Is Using Dulcolax Suppository Safe In An Infant For Long Period?

Posted on Tue, 26 Aug 2014

Question: My baby is 2 months old and doesn't pass the stool. After 2nd day onwards he cries a lot and on consultation with pedidatrician suggested to use 1/4 of Dulcoflex for children. He will settle down after passing the stool. Is it advised to use it for longer period of time, we are using it from last 20 days for every 3 days ? He is currently under breast feeding and occassionally on bottle feed. Any suggestions to pass the stool normally without using Dulcoflex?

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Thorough clinical assessment

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day

Dear Mr XXXXXXX XXXXXXX

It's not advisable to use Dulcolax suppository for long period.
I would suggest you the following

1. Good clinical examination to rule out anal fissure as the cause of difficulty in passing stool
2. Rule out Hypothyroidism
3. Consider the possibility of Hirschsprung disease: Less likely if there is no distension of abdomen and there is adequate weight gain

I would suggest you the following

1. Switch to exclusive breast feeding
2. Gentle massage at the anal opening using oil at the time of giving bath (do not put the finger inside )
3. Glycerine suppository is safe alternative

Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you.

Keep me updated about progress.

Take care

Best regards
Dr Deepak XXXXXXX
MBBS, MS, MCh
Consultant Pediatric Surgeon

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar