Lactulose helps relieve constipation and maintain the regularity of bowel movement.
This medicine belongs to a group of medicines called osmotic laxatives. These laxatives work by increasing water into the bowel, which makes the stools softer so it can move out of the body more easily.
This medicine can also be used to treat hepatic encephalopathy (brain impairment associated with liver disease).
Take Lactulose exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Lactulose is available as an oral solution in a bottle or sachet, or as a powder for oral solution.
If you have been given the oral solution in a bottle, use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure out your dose. The oral solution may be mixed with a glass of water, milk, or fruit juice. Drink immediately after mixing.
If you have been given the oral solution in a sachet, you may take it undiluted or diluted in a liquid.
Lactulose also comes as a powder for oral solution. Empty the contents of the packet, dilute and mix it with water. Stir to dissolve the powder evenly in the water. Drink the solution immediately.
Ensure adequate fluid intake (at least 6-8 glasses) while you are being treated with this medicine.
The dose of Lactulose will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- galactosaemia (a rare inherited disorder where the body cannot break down galactose, a type of sugar commonly found in breast milk and milk products)
- blocked bowel
- ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the large intestines)
- Crohn's disease (long-term inflammatory disease of the digestive tract)
- current or at risk of digestive perforation
- unexplained stomach pain
- low galactose diet
as Lactulose may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- lactose intolerance (inability to digest milk sugar)
- diabetes
- Roemheld syndrome (stomach disorder causing certain heart problems such as chest pain and palpitation)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to a child, the elderly, or those who are debilitated (a person who is physically or mentally weak usually due to illness or old age). Children, the elderly, and debilitated people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
If you are going for procedures such as proctoscopy and colonoscopy (examination of the bowel), inform your doctor that you are taking Lactulose.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. You may need to check your blood pressure and have routine blood tests (e.g. blood electrolytes) while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What lifestyle changes should I make to improve my digestion?
A healthy balanced diet and regular exercise are keys to helping intestinal bowel function normally.
Follow a healthy diet plan by eating foods rich in fibre. Some examples of these foods are bran, beans, berries, whole grains, green and leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, squash, and many others under this category. Reduce intake of foods such as milk, cheese, white rice, white flour, and red meat as they will contribute to constipation.
Constipation is also caused by a lack of water in your body and mainly in the stool. You should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Restrict the intake of caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee, tea, and certain carbonated "fizzy" drinks.
Engage in physical activity like walking for at least 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week. If you have not exercised for a long time, start with light exercises such as slow walks. You will find that keeping to a regular exercise regimen is enjoyable and helps not only your muscles but it also stimulates the natural contraction of your intestines, making it easier to pass out your stool in your body. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise would be suitable for you.
Lactulose may cause any of the following side effects: diarrhoea, stomach wind, and stomach pain.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- hydrochlorothiazide (water pill or medicine for water retention)
- amphotericin B (medicine to treat fungal infection)
- certain antibiotics e.g. neomcyin
- medicines for heart disease
- medicines that reduce stomach acid production
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Lactulose.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Drinking plenty of liquids and eating fibre-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables can help relieve constipation.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be kept past the expiry date.
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