Arab J Gastroenterol. 2026 Mar 21:S1687-1979(26)00003-1. doi: 10.1016/j.ajg.2026.01.003. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIM: Bowel preparation is a crucial step in ensuring the success of pediatric colonoscopy. This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding Senna alkaloid syrup to laxative agents for bowel preparation in children scheduled for colonoscopy.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: This double- blind controlled trial study compared two bowel preparation methods in children attending the gastrointestinal ward at Namazee Hospital, affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. The study was conducted in 2024. Eligible patients were randomized into two groups: one receiving conventional laxative agents and the other receiving conventional agents plus polyethylene glycol-3350 (PEG-3350) syrup. Efficacy was analyzed using the Aronchick Scale, alongside safety evaluations.
RESULTS: A total of 64 children completed the study: 32 patients (17 girls, 15 boys) in the Senna group and 32 patients (11 girls, 21 boys) in the control group. The mean age of participants was 11.03 ± 4.60 years (range: 1 to 18 years). There was a statistically significant difference in colon cleansing between the Senna group and the conventional group based on Aronchick Scale (p < 0.001). The Senna group had no children requiring repeat bowel preparation. No side effects were reported in either group.
CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that incorporating Senna into routine bowel preparation protocols may improve outcomes and could become standard practice for pediatric colonoscopy. (Clinical trial number: IRCT20250426065473N1).
PMID:41866261 | DOI:10.1016/j.ajg.2026.01.003
