Lactulose

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

Molecule Description

Lactulose is a laxative which contains synthetic sugar. It is used for the trea

tment of constipation and liver diseases.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Lactulose

Constipation of short or long duration
Liver disease causing decrease in the brain function (Hepatic Encephalopathy)

Contraindications of Lactulose

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 of Lactulose

Common side effects of this drug are:

Loose motions
Nausea or vomiting
Gas formation
Stomach pain

Precautions and Warnings of Lactulose

Pregnancy

Can I take Lactulose during pregnancy?

It is probably safe taking this medicine during pregnancy as this medicine does not cause any adverse effect on an unborn baby.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Lactulose while breastfeeding?

No data available whether this medicine passes in breast milk or not. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine while breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Lactulose?

It has no influence on your ability to drive.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Lactulose?

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 of Lactulose

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 of Lactulose

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 of Lactulose

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.

Dosage of Lactulose

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

Dr. Mansi Savla

B. Pharm, PharmD

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

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

References

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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