Medication adherence and treatment satisfaction with PEG 4000 in Indian pediatric patients with functional constipation: PIPPS study

Abstract

Background: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 is widely used for FC management; however, real-world data on medication adherence and treatment satisfaction with its ready-to-use liquid formulation in Indian pediatric patients remain limited. The PIPPS study assessed medication adherence and treatment satisfaction in children receiving PEG 4000 liquid for functional constipation. Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional survey was conducted across 44 centers in Pan India between June 2023 and February 2024. Parents of pediatric patients (1-18 years) diagnosed with FC, based on Rome IV criteria, were invited for the survey. Medication adherence was evaluated using the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5). Treatment satisfaction was assessed using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM). Parental perspectives on ease of administration and overall satisfaction were also recorded. Results: A total of 498 pediatric patients participated (median age: 7.4 years; 60.6% male). Adherence to PEG 4000 liquid (MARS-5 score ≥23) was observed in 57.83% of patients, with younger children (1–11 years) showing higher adherence (60.65%) compared to adolescents (50.42%). The mean TSQM score was 60.68, indicating high treatment satisfaction. Most parents reported the formulation as easy (66.2%) and convenient (63.2%) to administer, with 69.6% believing its benefits outweighed any side effects. Adherence and satisfaction rates were higher in urban patients compared to semi-urban and rural counterparts. Conclusion: PEG 4000 liquid formulation demonstrated moderate adherence and high treatment satisfaction in Indian pediatric patients with FC.