Lactulose

Information about Lactulose

Lactulose Uses

Lactulose is used in constipation and Hepatic encephalopathy. It may also be used to treat and prevent complications of liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy).

How Lactulose works

Lactulose works by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis, which makes the stool soft and easier to pass.

Common side effects of Lactulose

Abdominal pain, Nausea1a, Vomiting, Diarrhea
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Shreya Gupta
MDS (Oral Pathology & Microbiology), BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Lalit Kanodia
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
30 Sep 2021 | 11:52 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Lactulose

LoozIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹130 to ₹5779 variant(s)
EmtyAlkem Laboratories Ltd
₹115 to ₹5816 variant(s)
LaxopegFourrts India Laboratories Pvt Ltd
₹30 to ₹5409 variant(s)
LivolukPanacea Biotec Ltd
₹68 to ₹5154 variant(s)
Heptulac FiberCipla Ltd
₹108 to ₹2162 variant(s)
DuphalacAbbott L
₹172 to ₹5179 variant(s)
Evict XFAlbert David Ltd
₹178 to ₹3142 variant(s)
SmulaxAristo Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
₹97 to ₹1943 variant(s)
LaxoseIndi Pharma
₹108 to ₹2012 variant(s)
SwiftolacShreya Life Sciences Pvt Ltd
₹1731 variant(s)

Expert advice for Lactulose

  • Lactulose is used in the treatment of constipation and hepatic encephalopathy.
  • It should preferably be taken at bedtime as it requires 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
  • It is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks. Take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Some healthy tips to prevent constipation from happening:
    • Eat more fiber in your diet. Recommended daily intake is 20-35g
    • Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day
    • Exercise regularly at least 3 times per week
    • Do not hold in stool as that can worsen bowel issues
  • Take it atleast 2 hours after taking other medicines, as it may interfere with the absorption of other medicines.
  • Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach disorders such as appendicitis or a blockage in your bowel.

Frequently asked questions for Lactulose

Lactulose

Q. How long does it take for Lactulose to work?

It takes about 2-3 days to see the benefits of the treatment. Talk to your doctor if you feel constipated even after 3 days of taking Lactulose.

Q. What is Lactulose used for?

Lactulose is used to treat constipation which is presented as infrequent bowel movements, hard and dry stools. It is also used in patients with hepatic encephalopathy which is a serious liver problem causing confusion, tremors and decreased level of consciousness.

Q. Is Lactulose a laxative?

Yes, Lactulose is a laxative which softens the stools by pulling in water from the body to the large intestine. It is also used to reduce the amount of ammonia in the blood of patients with liver disease.

Q. What are the side effects of taking Lactulose?

Lactulose very commonly causes diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Diarrhea and abdominal pain occur due to a high dose. In such cases, the dose should be reduced. Flatulence may occur during the first few days of treatment and may disappear after sometime. This medicine may also cause electrolyte imbalance. However, this is an uncommon side effect.

Q. Is it okay to take Lactulose every day?

You should take Lactulose for as long as advised by your doctor. You may also take it for as long as constipation lasts, which may be up to a week. For hepatic encephalopathy, the treatment may be longer, even several months.

Q. Who should not be given Lactulose?

Lactulose should not be given to patients who are allergic to it or are intolerant to lactose (cannot process lactose). It should also be avoided in patients having galactosemia, a rare health problem where the body cannot process galactose.

Q. Can I take other laxatives along with Lactulose?

Usually, one laxative is sufficient to relieve constipation. In case you need more, your doctor may advise you to take one more laxative along with Lactulose. The risk of side effects is more with two laxatives.

Q. What if I take more than the recommended dose of Lactulose?

Taking more than the recommended dose of Lactulose may cause abdominal pain, electrolyte imbalance and diarrhea, which may last for a couple of days.

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