Clinical Guidelines

NHS England has advised CCGs that a prescription for the treatment of infrequent constipation should not routinely be offered in primary care as the condition is appropriate for self-care. The NHS England guidance applies to short term, infrequent constipation caused by changes in lifestyle or diet such as lack of water or movement or changes in diet. GPs should continue to prescribe laxatives to manage acute constipation with more complex aetiology (e.g. iatrogenic) and chronic constipation.

The NHS England guidance does not apply to the management of children and laxatives for children should continue to be prescribed by GPs.

Supporting Documents:

Over The Counter (OTC) Items That Should Not Be Routinely Prescribed In Primary Care Policy (Version 1.1)

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