Lactulose Oral Solution U.S.P

Lactulose Oral Solution is a sugar solution that is taken for constipation. It is referred to as a laxative and softens your stool so it is easier to pass by drawing water into your bowel. It also treats hepatic encephalopathy (liver disease causing confusion, tremor, reduced level of consciousness).

How To Use Lactulose Oral Solution?

• Swallow this medication orally as directed by your doctor, typically once daily for constipation. 
• If you are administering the solution, to make the taste better, you can mix it with fruit juice, water, milk, or a soft dessert. 
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. 
• Remember to take it at the same time each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• It can take as long as 48 hours to have a bowel movement. Seek medical attention if it lasts or is worsening.

Dosage & Duration

Children who are under 1 year: 5 ml daily (3.3 g daily)

Children who are aged 1 to 6 years: 5 to 10 ml daily (3.3 to 6.7 g daily)

Children who are aged 7 to 14 years: 10 to 15 ml daily (6.7 to 10 g daily)

Child above 14 years and adult: 15 to 45 ml daily (10 to 30 g daily)

Uses

• This solution is a laxative that treats constipation. 
• It can help to increase the number of bowel movements daily and the number of days you have a bowel movement. 
• Lactulose Oral Solution is a colonic acidifier that acts by adding water to the stool and making the stool softer. It is a synthetic sugar solution.

Contraindications, Adverse Effects & Precautions

• Don't use in patients with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, intestinal obstruction, or undiagnosed abdominal pain.
• May induce: abdominal discomfort, flatulence and diarrhoea.
• In case of diarrhoea, rule out a faecal impaction and intestinal obstruction; decrease the dose.
• Pregnancy: no contraindication
• Breastfeeding: no contraindication

Remarks

• It can take 48 hours or more before the treatment becomes effective. 
• Lactulose Oral Solution is not suitable for acute constipation when an immediate effect is required.
• If required, Lactulose Oral Solution can be administered with a stimulant laxative (e.g. bisacodyl, senna).
• The oral solution can be taken undiluted or diluted.
• The treatment should be followed by dietary adjustments (fluids and fibre).