Lactulose (20% w/v)

Lactulose (20% w/v) — Uses and Benefits

Lactulose is a laxative medicine mainly used to treat constipation and a liver complication called hepatic encephalopathy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Relief of constipation in adults and children
• Softening of stools in people who need to avoid straining, such as after surgery or childbirth
• Treatment and prevention of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where liver problems affect brain function
• Sometimes used before certain bowel investigations as advised by the doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• It is not absorbed from the gut and stays in the intestine
• It draws water into the bowel, making stools softer and easier to pass
• In the colon, it is broken down by bacteria into acids that trap ammonia and reduce its absorption into the blood, which helps in liver-related brain problems

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a treatment for diarrhoea
• It does not treat infections or inflammatory bowel disease
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat abdominal pain unrelated to constipation
• It should not be used for rapid weight loss

How to Use Lactulose (20% w/v)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as advised by your doctor or as mentioned on the pack
• Can be taken with or without food
• May be mixed with water or juice to make it easier to take
• Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine unless your doctor says otherwise
• It may take one to two days to show effect for constipation, so do not increase the dose on your own
• For liver-related use, the dose is usually adjusted to achieve a certain number of soft stools per day, as guided by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your 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 after the expiry date printed on the pack

Lactulose (20% w/v) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Bloating or feeling of gas
• Stomach cramps
• Flatulence (passing wind)
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea, especially if too much is taken
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or persistent diarrhoea
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination
• Severe abdominal pain or bloating
• Signs of low blood salts such as muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeat
• Allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or lips, or difficulty breathing

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

Lactulose (20% w/v) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription medicine in India for the hepatic encephalopathy indication; for simple constipation it may be available over the counter, but it is best to use it under medical or pharmacist guidance.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lactulose or any of its ingredients
• Have a blockage in your intestine (intestinal obstruction)
• Have a rare condition called galactosaemia
• Have unexplained severe abdominal pain

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as the syrup contains sugars
• Are on a lactose-restricted diet
• Have kidney problems
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are giving this medicine to a young child or infant

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other laxatives, as combined use may cause excessive stool frequency
• Medicines that affect gut bacteria, such as certain antibiotics, which may reduce effectiveness
• Diuretics or steroids, since prolonged excessive use of lactulose can affect blood salt levels and increase risk of interaction

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take lactulose daily for a long time?

It can be used for a longer duration under medical supervision, but constipation lasting more than a week should be evaluated by a doctor.

Is lactulose safe during pregnancy?

It is generally considered safe as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream, but confirm with your doctor before use.

Why does lactulose cause gas?

• Gas and bloating happen because gut bacteria ferment the sugar in the intestine; this usually reduces after a few days of regular use.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.