About lactulose m
Osmotic laxative
Used for
- Treats constipation
- Helps prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy
Usual adult dose
Constipation: usually 15–30 mL once daily. Hepatic encephalopathy: usually 30–45 mL three or four times daily, adjusted to produce two or three soft stools daily.
Usual dose in children
Constipation: dosing depends on age; commonly 2.5–10 mL daily for children under 14 years. Infants: usually up to 5 mL daily.
Common side effects
- Gas and bloating
- Abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Important warnings
- Excessive use can cause diarrhea, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance.
- Use cautiously in diabetes; some formulations contain sugars.
- Do not use with bowel obstruction or unexplained severe abdominal pain.
- It may take 24–48 hours to work for constipation.
Pregnancy
Generally considered low risk because little is absorbed, but pregnancy-specific advice should guide use.
Breastfeeding
Generally compatible; little lactulose is expected to enter breast milk.
Interactions
- Other laxatives may increase diarrhea and electrolyte loss.
- Lactulose can alter the absorption of medicines affected by changes in bowel acidity.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.