A brief review is made of the use of high dose polyethylene glycol solution in the treatment of functional constipation and encopresis in children. Experience with low dose polyethylene glycol for the treatment of neurogenic constipation in children with severe brain damage is also reported. Treatment with polyethylene glycol caused a significant increase in bowel frequency and a decrease in gastrointestinal transit time. Side-effects, consisting of nausea, vomiting and irritability, have limited the use of this treatment in a few children.