A narrative review on the diagnosis and management of constipation in infants.

Randomized controlled trials in this specific age group are mostly limited to trials with infant formula. The prevalence of infant constipation in formula-fed infants is decreasing, and can be associated to adaptations in formula composition. While the supplementation of infant formula with pro-, pre- and/or synbiotics decreases the prevalence of constipation, their efficacy in constipated infants is disappointing. There is limited evidence to support the addition of magnesium to infant formula to treat constipation. The evidence for the efficacy and safety of polyethylene glycol in children <2 years has expanded over the past years. The administration of lactulose or polyethylene glycol is the preferred medical management, in case nutritional management does result in insufficient improvement.