Lactulose 20g

Lactulose 20g — Uses and Benefits

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

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Relief of constipation
• Softening of stools before certain medical procedures
• Management of hepatic encephalopathy (confusion caused by liver disease)
• Long-term bowel regulation in people who need soft, regular stools

HOW IT WORKS

• It is not absorbed much from the gut and stays in the intestine
• It draws water into the bowel, which softens the stool and increases bowel movements
• Gut bacteria break it down into acids that lower the amount of ammonia absorbed into the blood
• This reduced ammonia helps improve brain function in liver disease

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a treatment for diarrhoea
• It is not used for sudden, severe abdominal pain of unknown cause
• It does not treat infections or inflammatory bowel disease
• It should not be used as a quick fix for weight loss

How to Use Lactulose 20g

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• It can be taken with water, juice, or food
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medicine unless your doctor advises otherwise
• It may take a day or two to show effect for constipation, so do not increase the dose on your own
• For liver-related use, the dose may be adjusted based on the number of soft stools passed per day, as guided by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• 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 20g — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Bloating
• Flatulence (gas)
• Stomach cramps
• Mild nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea, especially if the dose is too high
• Belching
• Change in taste

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe watery diarrhoea leading to dehydration
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination
• Severe abdominal pain or swelling
• Signs of electrolyte imbalance such as muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling of face/throat

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

Lactulose 20g — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is generally available with a prescription in India, though some formulations may be sold over the counter; please confirm with your pharmacist and use only as advised by a doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lactulose or any of its ingredients
• Have a blockage in your intestine (bowel obstruction)
• Have galactosemia, a rare condition where the body cannot process galactose

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as this medicine contains sugars
• Have a history of severe abdominal pain of unknown cause
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are on a low-sugar or low-galactose diet
• Are elderly or have kidney problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other laxatives, which may increase the risk of diarrhoea and dehydration
• Antibiotics, which may reduce the effectiveness of lactulose
• Medicines that affect potassium levels, since excessive use of lactulose can lower potassium

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is lactulose habit-forming?

No, it is not habit-forming, but it should still be used only as directed and not for long periods without medical advice.

How long does it take to work?

It usually takes 1 to 2 days to relieve constipation, though it may act faster in higher doses under medical supervision.

Can I take it daily for a long time?

• It can be used for longer durations under a doctor's supervision, especially in liver disease, but regular check-ups are recommended.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.