Lactulose was approved by the U.S. FDA to treat constipation and hepatic encephalopathy in June 1977.

Lactulose is used to treat constipation and hepatic encephalopathy

The recommended dose of Lactulose is 2 to 3 tabelspoons or 15 ml. Shake the bottle well and take the prescribed dose or quantity by mouth using the measuring cup or spoon provided by the pack. You can also mix it with water or fruit juice. Dissolve the contents in water and consume it.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Lactulose are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flatulence (wind), and electrolyte imbalance. Inform your healthcare professional if any of these side effects disturb you or persist. Report to your doctor immediately if you have diarrhea.

Contact your physician immediately if you experience allergies to Lactulose and its ingredients. Inform your physician if you have galactosemia (galactose indigestion disorder) and have a blockage caused by normal constipation or digestive perforation. Tell your physician if you have diabetes or lactose intolerance (unable to digest milk sugar). When you have diabetes, your dose of this medication will be increased because it contains high sugar content, and you will need to adjust it. Chronic usage of incorrect dosages or misuse might result in diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance, so take it only as directed by your doctor.

Lactulose solution is safe to use during pregnancy as this medicine does not cause any harmful effects on an unborn baby. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while on the medicine as it is unknown if Lactulose passes into the breastmilk.

Tell your doctor, before treatment commencement, if you have any surgery or tests on your rectum or colon. Before consulting your doctor, lactulose solution is not to be given for children under the age of 14. It is recommended to consume a lot of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated. Regular exercise and consuming more fiber in your diet will help to soften your stool and make it easier for you to pass it. Do not hold in stool, as that can worsen bowel issues.

1. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Osmotic purgatives, 7th Edition, 2013, 677-679.
2. Intrapharm Laboratories Limited., Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on May 2015] [Accessed on 28th September 2022] https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2796.pdf
3. Cresent pharma limited., Accessed on 28th September 2022, https://mhraproductsprod.blob.core.windows.net/docs/25c876b655ff167e28fd9a2d39114d48b4dbf1b7

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.