Lactulose 10g

Lactulose 10g — Uses and Benefits

Lactulose is mainly used to treat constipation and a brain-related complication of liver disease called hepatic encephalopathy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Relief of constipation
• Softening of stools for easier bowel movement
• Management of hepatic encephalopathy (confusion caused by liver disease)
• Sometimes used before certain bowel-related medical procedures, as directed by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Lactulose is a sugar that is not absorbed in the small intestine
• It reaches the colon where it draws water into the bowel, softening stools and stimulating bowel movement
• In the colon, bacteria break it down, which lowers the blood ammonia level, helping in liver-related confusion

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a treatment for infections
• It is not meant for sudden, severe abdominal pain unless advised by a doctor
• It does not treat diarrhoea and should not be used for that purpose
• It is not a substitute for a balanced diet and fluid intake for regular bowel habits

How to Use Lactulose 10g

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Mix with water or juice if advised, or take directly as instructed
• Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine
• It may take a day or two to show effect for constipation

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use if the liquid has changed colour or smell unusually

Lactulose 10g — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Bloating
• Flatulence (gas)
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea, especially with higher doses
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe diarrhoea leading to dehydration
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination
• Severe abdominal pain or bloating
• Allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face and throat

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Lactulose 10g — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available in India both over the counter and on prescription depending on the formulation and brand; use as advised by your doctor or pharmacist, especially for liver-related conditions.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lactulose or any of its ingredients
• Have a condition called galactosaemia (a rare inherited disorder)
• Have a blockage in your intestine (bowel obstruction)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as this medicine contains sugar-like components
• Are on a low-galactose diet
• Have kidney or liver disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have persistent or unexplained abdominal pain

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other laxatives, as combined use may cause excessive bowel movement
• Certain antibiotics, which may reduce the effectiveness of lactulose
• Medicines that affect blood ammonia levels

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to work?

It usually takes one to two days to relieve constipation; for liver-related use, effect is monitored by the doctor over a longer period.

Can I take this medicine daily for a long time?

It can be used for longer durations under medical supervision, especially in liver disease, but for constipation it is best to identify and manage the underlying cause too.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

• It is generally considered safe but should only be taken after consulting your doctor.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.