lactulose

A disaccharide of galactose and fructose which does not occur naturally but is formed in heated or stored milk by isomerization of lactose. About half as sweet as sucrose. Not hydrolysed by human digestive enzymes but fermented by intestinal bacteria to form lactic and pyruvic acids. Thought to promote the growth of Lactobacillus bifidus and so added to some infant formulae; in large amounts it is a laxative. See also lactitol.

Brand names: Acilac™, Cephulac®, Cholac™, Chronulac®, Constilac™, Constulose®, Enulose®, Generlac™, Kristalose®, Lactulose

Chemical formula:

Drug Forms:
• Lactulose oral syrup (below)
• Lactulose powder for oral solution
• Lactulose Oral solution [Constipation]
• Lactulose Oral solution [Encephalopathy]
• Lactulose Powder for Oral Solution [Constipation]

Español:
• Jarabe oral de lactulosa
• Polvo para la solución oral de lactulosa
• Lactulosa, Solución oral (Estreñimiento)
• Lactulosa, Solución oral (Encefalopatía)
• Lactulosa, Polvo para solución oral (Estreñimiento)

Lactulose oral syrup

What is lactulose syrup?

LACTULOSE (Cephulac®, Chronulac®, Duphalac®) is a complex sugar-like laxative derived from lactose. It helps to treat chronic constipation and to treat or prevent hepatic encephalopathy or coma (brain disorders that result from liver disease). Generic lactulose syrup is available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• diabetes
• need a galactose-free diet
• scheduled for surgery
• an unusual or allergic reaction to lactulose, other sugars, medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take lactulose syrup by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one; household spoons are not always accurate. You can mix lactulose with fruit juice or water before taking. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over 65 years old need smaller doses to reduce possible side effects.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with lactulose?

• antacids
• other laxatives
• neomycin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking including nonprescription medicines; if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol; if you smoke; or if you use illegal drugs. These can affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking lactulose?

Lactulose may not produce any result for between 24 and 48 hours. Do not take lactulose for more than one week unless your prescriber or health care professional has prescribed a regular schedule for you.

Drink plenty of water with each dose of lactulose.

If you are taking other medication, take lactulose at least 2 hours before or afterwards so that it will not interfere with your other medicines.

What side effects might I notice from taking lactulose?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• belching, flatulence
• diarrhea
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain or discomfort

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away if solution becomes dark or cloudy, which may be caused by high storage temperature. Too low storage temperature may make the product difficult to pour.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.