Medicines that can cause constipation in children
Many medicines can cause constipation. Medicines that are most likely to cause constipation include:
- Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), found in over-the-counter cold medicines.
- Antidiarrheal medicines, such as Lomotil.
- Antispasmodics, such as atropine and scopolamine.
- Narcotics, such as codeine and hydrocodone.
- Chemotherapy, such as vincristine and vinblastine.
- Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and valproic acid.
- Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline or doxepin.
If constipation occurs following the start of a medicine:
- For prescription medicine, before your child's next dose (the same day), call the health professional who prescribed it to determine whether your child should stop taking the medicine or take a different one. An appointment may not be necessary.
- For nonprescription medicine, stop giving your child the medicine. If you feel your child needs to continue taking the medicine, call your health professional.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: November 3, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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