Lactulose
Description
Lactulose is a type of laxative made from a synthetic sugar that helps relieve
constipation in a gentle way. It works by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. This can help reduce discomfort, bloating, and the strain often associated with constipation. It may take a day or two to show full effect, so regular use as advised by your doctor is important. Lactulose is also used in certain liver conditions to help reduce the build-up of harmful toxins in the body. Improving bowel movements helps remove these toxins and prevents them from affecting the brain. Always take Lactulose exactly as prescribed, and drink plenty of water to support its action. If you notice severe diarrhoea, stomach cramps, or any unusual symptoms, make sure to inform your doctor.
Uses
- Constipation of short or long duration
- Liver disease causing decrease in the brain function (Hepatic Encephalopathy)
Contraindications
When should one not use Lactulose
- Do not take this medicine if:
- You are allergic to Lactulose
- You have Galactosaemia where there is an increase in galactose sugar level in the blood
- You have bowel blockage with the cause not known
- You have galactose or fructose intolerance
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Loose motions
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gas formation
- Stomach pain
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Lactulose during pregnancy?
A:
It is probably safe taking this medicine during pregnancy as this medicine does not cause any adverse effect on an unborn baby.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Lactulose while breastfeeding?
A:
No data available whether this medicine passes in breast milk or not. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine while breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Lactulose?
A:
It has no influence on your ability to drive.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Lactulose?
A:
Alcohol is strictly prohibited if you have liver disease.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
You have diabetes, stomach pain or are Lactose intolerant.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
- Lactulose is digested in the large intestine where the products absorb water into the pipe thereby softening the stools
- It also absorbs excess ammonia (in patients suffering from liver disease) from the blood in the intestine.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
Few medicines (e.g. Antacids, certain antibiotics) can interact with Lactulose to have adverse effects.
Interactions with food items
No specific interactions with food have been reported yet.
Dietary Restrictions
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dosage
Overdose
Overdose symptoms may include extreme thirst, pain in the abdomen, confusion, uneven heart rate, leg discomfort and muscle weakness. Seek emergency medical care immediately.
Missed a Dose
Take medicine as soon as you remember the missed dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this drug?
A: Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. Also, mention to your doctor all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations and nutritional supplements that you may be taking before starting this medication.
Q: What instructions should I follow while taking this medicine?
- This medicine should not be used for long term
- Drink plenty of water (6 to 8 glasses of water per day)
Q: Tell me the necessary lifestyle changes to avoid constipation?
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables
- Eat food rich in fiber content
- Regular exercise and walking
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Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
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