Why is this medication prescribed?
Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema is commonly prescribed for the relief of occasional constipation in children. It works by softening the stool and promoting bowel movements, providing relief from constipation.
This medication is a saline laxative that works by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool and promoting bowel movements. It’s often recommended when other methods of relieving constipation, such as dietary changes or oral laxatives, have not been effective.
How should this medicine be used?
Here are general guidelines for using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema:
- Read the instructions: Before using the enema, carefully read and follow the instructions provided on the packaging. It’s important to understand how to properly administer the enema.
- Prepare the child: Explain to the child what to expect during the process. Assure them that it may feel a little uncomfortable but it will help them feel better afterward.
- Positioning: Lay the child on their left side with their right knee bent slightly. This position helps the enema solution flow more easily into the rectum.
- Open the enema: Remove the protective shield from the enema tip. Lubricate the tip with a water-soluble lubricant if necessary.
- Insertion: Gently insert the tip of the enema into the rectum, aiming toward the child’s navel. Do not force it. If resistance is met, try rotating the tip slightly or withdrawing slightly before attempting again.
- Squeeze the bottle: Squeeze the bottle slowly and steadily to empty its contents into the rectum.
- Withdraw the enema: Remove the enema tip gently after the bottle is empty. Encourage the child to try to hold the enema solution for a few minutes to allow it to work.
- Encourage bowel movement: After the enema has been administered, encourage the child to try to have a bowel movement. It’s best if the child can remain in the same position they were in during administration for a few minutes.
- Clean up: Cleanse the child’s bottom with mild soap and water after they have had a bowel movement.
It’s important to note that Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema should only be used as directed and should not be used more frequently or for a longer duration than recommended without consulting a healthcare professional. If there are any concerns or questions about using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, it’s best to consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Other uses for this medicine
One potential off-label use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema is for bowel preparation before certain medical procedures or surgeries. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe an enema to help empty the colon before a procedure such as a colonoscopy.
What special precautions should I follow?
As with any medication, it’s important to follow special precautions when using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema:
- Dosage and Administration: Use Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of use.
- Age and Weight Considerations: Ensure that the dosage is appropriate for the child’s age and weight. Use caution when administering enemas to infants and young children, and always follow the guidance of a pediatrician.
- Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions the child may have, especially gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease or rectal bleeding. Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema may not be suitable for children with certain medical conditions, so it’s important to seek medical advice before use.
- Allergies: Check the ingredients of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema to ensure the child does not have any allergies to its components. If the child has a known allergy to any of the ingredients, do not use the medication without consulting a healthcare professional.
- Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as rectal irritation, discomfort, or cramping. If the child experiences severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
- Hydration: Ensure the child stays hydrated while using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema. Encourage adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather or during illness.
- Storage: Store Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema according to the instructions on the packaging. Keep it out of reach of children and away from heat and moisture.
- Medical Supervision: If there are any concerns or questions about using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, consult a healthcare professional for guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on the child’s medical history and individual needs.
By following these precautions, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema for the intended purpose.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Special dietary instructions for Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema may include:
- Hydration: Encourage the child to drink plenty of fluids while using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema. Adequate hydration can help soften the stool and facilitate bowel movements.
- Fiber-Rich Foods: Encourage the child to consume foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber helps add bulk to the stool and promotes regular bowel movements.
- Avoiding Constipating Foods: Limit the intake of constipating foods, such as processed foods, dairy products, and foods high in fat or sugar.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If a dose of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema is missed, it’s generally not recommended to administer a double dose to make up for the missed one. Instead, follow the regular dosing schedule and administer the next dose as scheduled. If you have any concerns about missed doses or dosing instructions, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, like any medication, may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects associated with the use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema include:
- Rectal Irritation: Some children may experience mild irritation or discomfort in the rectal area after using the enema. This usually resolves on its own and does not require medical intervention.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Children may experience mild abdominal cramping or discomfort after using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema. This is often temporary and should improve as the bowels are emptied.
- Nausea: In some cases, children may feel nauseous after using an enema. Encourage the child to rest and offer clear fluids to help alleviate nausea.
- Dehydration: Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema works by drawing water into the colon to soften the stool. In rare cases, excessive use of enemas or failure to drink enough fluids can lead to dehydration. Ensure the child stays hydrated while using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Prolonged or excessive use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema may disrupt electrolyte levels in the body, particularly sodium and potassium. This can lead to symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, or irregular heartbeat. It’s important to use enemas only as directed by a healthcare professional.
- Allergic Reactions: While rare, some children may experience allergic reactions to the ingredients in Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness. Seek medical attention immediately if an allergic reaction is suspected.
- Rectal Bleeding: In rare cases, the use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema may cause minor rectal bleeding. If bleeding persists or is severe, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
It’s important to note that these side effects are not experienced by everyone using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, and many children tolerate the medication well. If the child experiences severe or persistent side effects, or if there are any concerns about the use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
Storage and Disposal:
- Storage: Store Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink where it could be exposed to moisture.
- Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush unused medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult a pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for guidance on safe disposal methods.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case of an emergency or overdose involving Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, contact your local poison control center (in the United States, you can call 1-800-222-1222) or seek immediate medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the child’s age, weight, the amount of medication ingested, and any symptoms experienced.
What other information should I know?
- Follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by a healthcare professional or as directed on the packaging.
- Do not use Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema for longer than recommended or more frequently than prescribed.
- Do not use Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema if the child is allergic to any of its ingredients.
- Inform the healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions the child may have before using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema.
- Monitor the child’s response to the medication and report any unusual or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
- Keep the child well-hydrated while using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema by encouraging adequate fluid intake.
- If constipation persists or worsens despite using Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and appropriate use of Fleet Pedia-Lax Enema for the child’s constipation relief.