Pediatr Pract Res, cilt.12, sa.1, ss.9-13, 2024 (Hakemli Dergi)
Aim: Magnesium oxide (MgO) is a standard treatment for functional constipation. However, this medication has not been evaluated extensively for possible alterations of plasma magnesium (Mg) levels and other electrolytes. This retrospective study aimed to appraise the effects of serum magnesium with some other electrolyte levels after oral MgO treatment in children with functional constipation. Material and Method: After the approval of the local ethical committee, archives of the patients who had been admitted to two different Pediatric Surgery outpatient clinics in different cities between 2014-2018 were evaluated. The demographic findings of the patients were recorded. For the diagnosis of chronic constipation, Rome-III classification criteria were used. After complete physical examinations, if there were no possible organic reasons other than chronic dietary problems, serum electrolyte levels were obtained and evaluated. Findings were evaluated statistically and discussed with the literature. Result: The magnesium value was significantly higher in the constipation group (p<0.05) compared to the control group. In generalized linear models (GLM) results, the effects of calcium, potassium, and sodium levels on serum magnesium levels were significant (p<0.05). The effect of calcium and potassium levels on serum magnesium was statistically significant in the constipation group (p<0.05). In the control group, only the effect of chlorine level on serum magnesium was statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: MgO is a valuable treatment for constipation. However, especially by taking into account the dose adjustment, close follow-up of the patients for side effects is necessary to prevent patients from electrolyte imbalance. Keywords: Constipation, magnesium, magnesium oxide, electrolyte