Review Drug

Lactulose

Lactulose

Brand names Duphalac, Lactugal, Laxose, Osmolax, Regulose

Used in the following combined preparations None

GENERAL INFORMATION

Lactulose is an effective laxative that softens faeces by increasing the amount of water in the large intestine. It is used for the relief of constipation and faecal impaction, especially in the elderly. This drug is less likely than some of the other laxatives to disrupt normal bowel action.

Lactulose is also recommended to prevent and treat a brain disturbance associated with liver failure, known as hepatic encephalopathy.

Because lactulose acts locally in the large intestine and is not absorbed into the body, it is safer than many other laxatives. However, the drug can cause stomach cramps and flatulence at the start of treatment.

INFORMATION FOR USERS

Follow instructions on the label. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen.

How taken

Liquid, powder.

Frequency and timing of doses

2 x daily (chronic constipation); 3-4 x daily (liver failure).

Adult dosage range

15-30ml daily (chronic constipation); 90-150ml daily (liver failure).

Onset of effect

24-48 hours.

Duration of action

6-18 hours.

Diet advice

It is important to maintain an adequate intake of fluid – up to 8 glasses of water daily.

Storage

Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Do not store after diluting.

Missed dose

Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 3 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.

Stopping the drug

In the treatment of constipation, the drug can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.

Exceeding the dose

An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.

POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adverse effects are rarely serious and often disappear when your body adjusts to the
medicine. Diarrhoea may indicate that the dosage of lactulose is too high.

INTERACTIONS

None.

QUICK REFERENCE

Drug group Laxative

Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No
Available as generic Yes

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this drug if:

You have severe abdominal pain.

You are taking other medications.

Pregnancy

No evidence of risk. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding

No evidence of risk.
Infants and children

Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60

No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work

No known problems.
Alcohol

No known problems.

PROLONGED USE

No special problems expected.