Lactivig 90gm is used to:

• Relieve constipation: It helps relieve occasional and chronic constipation in adults by softening stools and increasing bowel movements.

• Soften stools: It may be used when straining needs to be avoided, such as in people with piles (haemorrhoids), anal fissures or after anal or rectal surgery.

• Increase dietary fibre intake: Ispaghula husk may help people who need more fibre, such as people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who have constipation.

Lactitol Monohydrate is a sugar alcohol that is not absorbed in the small intestine. It reaches the large intestine, where gut bacteria break it down into small organic acids. These acids draw water into the bowel, which softens the stool and increases bowel movements.

Ispaghula Husk is a soluble fibre. It absorbs water and forms a soft gel in the bowel, which adds bulk to the stool and makes it easier to pass. The larger stool volume also stretches the bowel wall, which triggers natural bowel movements.

Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you are taking before starting Lactivig.

• Other oral medicines: Lactitol and ispaghula husk may reduce or delay the absorption of other medicines taken by mouth. Take other medicines at least 2 hours before or after Lactivig.

• Medicines that slow bowel movement: Opioid painkillers and anti-diarrhoeal medicines such as loperamide slow the bowel. Taking them with a bulk-forming laxative can increase the risk of bowel blockage.

• Diabetes medicines and insulin: Ispaghula husk may slow sugar absorption from food. Your doctor may need to monitor your blood sugar more closely.

• Other laxatives: Using Lactivig with other laxatives may increase the risk of diarrhoea and fluid loss.

• Store Lactivig 90gm at room temperature below 30°C in a cool, dry place.

• Close the lid tightly after each use to protect the granules from moisture.

• Keep out of the reach of children.

• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.

Use Lactivig 90gm exactly as advised by your doctor or as stated on the label.

Add the recommended dose to a full glass (about 150 to 200 ml) of water, milk or juice. Stir and drink it immediately, before it thickens. Drink another glass of water afterwards. Lactivig can be taken with or without food.

Take Lactivig while sitting or standing upright. Do not take it just before going to bed or while lying down. Lactivig usually works within 1 to 3 days. Speak to your doctor if your constipation does not improve after 3 days of use.

Common side effects of Lactivig may include:

• Flatulence (gas)

• Bloating or abdominal distension

• Abdominal discomfort or cramps

• Diarrhoea or loose stools

• Nausea

Gas and bloating are more common at the start of treatment and usually become less noticeable within a few days.

Serious side effects

Seek medical attention if you develop:

• Chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing or breathing after taking a dose. These can be signs that the fibre has blocked the throat or food pipe.

• Severe abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen or no bowel movement. These can be signs of bowel blockage.

• Persistent diarrhoea, which may lead to dehydration.

• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

• Rectal bleeding.

• Always mix Lactivig with a full glass of liquid and drink another glass of water after it.

• Drink enough fluids throughout the day while using Lactivig.

• Take other medicines at least 2 hours before or after Lactivig.

• Do not take Lactivig just before bedtime or while lying down.

• Do not use Lactivig if you have bowel blockage, difficulty swallowing or galactosaemia.

• Speak to your doctor if you have a sudden change in bowel habit lasting more than 2 weeks or bleeding from the rectum.

• Stop Lactivig and contact your doctor if you have persistent loose stools.

• Eat fibre-rich foods and stay physically active to support regular bowel movements.