What is Lactulose?
This linctus is a kind of sugar and is decomposed in the large intestine into mild acids that extracts water into the colon, which further assists in relaxing the stools. Lactulose medicine is employed to cure the condition of chronic constipation.
It is often prescribed to counter certain brain problems caused due liver failure, which may further result in cognition issues, behaviour changes, irritability, spasms, sleep difficulties, lack of coordination, and losing consciousness. It may also be utilized for purposes not mentioned in this concise clinical guide.
What are the common conditions in which Lactulose prescribed?
This medicine is recommended in the following conditions:
- Softening the stools
- Chronic constipation
- Brain conditions caused due to liver failure
- Hepatic encephalopathy
How should I take Lactulose?
Adhere closely to all the directives mentioned on your prescription label and medication guides. Your doses may be altered frequently by the doctor.
Take the doses as per the references your medic neither more nor less of and for a complete recommended period.
Measure the oral solution of medicine carefully with the help of dosing syringe given or with medicine syringe.
However, do not use a pantry spoon. If you lack a dosing tool, ask for one from the pharmacist.
The solution form of lactulose might be somewhat darker in colour, but this completely safe to use.
However, if the liquid seems to be overly dark tinted or is thicker or diluted in is texture avoid taking it.
Before using powder formulation of this medicine should be blended with a minimum 4 ounces (151.2 g) of water.
Although, you might also add fruit juice or milk to enhance the taste of medicine.
If you have been using the medicine for over an extended period of time, you might be asked by your doctor to undertake regular blood tests. Do not skip the listed appointments.
Keep lactulose at room temperature in a cool and dry area.
Mode of administration of lactulose:
Typical Adult Dose for Constipation [Chronic]: 15 mL dose taken orally once in a day.
Typical Adult Dose for Constipation [Acute]:
Early dose: 15 mL taken orally once in a day. Treatment should be persisted until normal bowel function starts again.
Typical Adult Dose for Hepatic Encephalopathy:
Initial dose: 30 mL dose taken orally 3 times a day or
300 mL in 700 mL water or normal saline as an enema held for 30 to 60 minutes every 4 to 6 hours.
Maintenance dose: 30 to 45 mL dose taken orally 3 times a day.
Usual Paediatric Dose for Hepatic Encephalopathy:
Infants: 1.7 to 6.7 g/day (2.5 to 10 mL) dose taken orally everyday assorted in 3 to 4 doses. Adjust dosage to produce 2 to 3 soft stools each day.
Children: 26.7 to 60 g/day (40 to 90 mL) dose taken orally everyday assorted in 3 to 4 doses. Adjust dosage to produce 2 to 3 soft stools each day.
Typical Paediatric Dose for Constipation [Chronic]:
Children: 0.7 to 2 g/kg/day (1 to 3 mL/kg/day) dose taken orally in assorted doses every day; generally advised not to surpass the adult maximum of 40 g/day (60 mL/day).
When should you not take Lactulose?
Do not take this drug in case you are on a separate diet which is low in galactose or milk sugar.
Before using this medicine, acquaint your clinician if you suffer from diabetes or if you need to undergo any sort of intestinal examination via a scope e.g., colonoscopy.
Your bowel movements may take up to 48 hours after taking this medication.
Avoid taking this medicine and visit your doctor if you have distressing and continuous diarrhoea.
You have to inform your doctor the presence of conditions that may not be appropriate to safely use this medication, particularly,
- Diabetes
- Need to undertake any test via scope e.g., colonoscopy
FDA pregnancy category B. It is not likely that this medicine may have any adverse effects on unborn infant. Inform your doctor in case you are pregnant or will expect in near future.
It is yet undiscovered that this drug passes into the breast milk or could impact the nursing baby.
Do not attempt this medication unless with your doctor’s suggestions.
What are the possible side effects of Lactulose?
If you experience symptoms of allergic response to the medication such as hives, problematic breathing, inflammation on face, lips, throat and tongue, then seek immediate medical attention.
Discontinue taking this medicine if you have terrible or continuous diarrhoea.
Other mild side effects may comprise:
- Stomach bloating, gas;
- Stomach ache;
- diarrhea; or
- vomiting, nausea
These are not all the possible side effects as others may occur as well. Talk to your doctor for further information about side effects.
What to do if I miss the dose?
Since this medicine is taken when required. Thus, it is improbable that you miss the dose. Skip any missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at a time to compensate for the missed one.
Common Drug Interaction with Lactulose
Other medications may possibly interact with this drug, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It is imperative that you disclose to your doctor regarding your current medicinal course and any medicine that you started or stopped using.
Bottom Line
Lactulose is a type of sugar prescribed to cure stomach issues such as constipation and brain condition which occur due to liver failure. This medicine should be taken under strict adherence with the directions of your physician else a person may face serious consequences. In case you experience any side- effects immediately rush to the doctor.
