What It Is Used For
Lactulose is a gentle laxative syrup for constipation. Doctors also use it in liver disease to lower ammonia in the blood (hepatic encephalopathy).
How to Take It
Constipation, adults: usually 15 ml once or twice a day, then adjusted to between 15 and 45 ml a day. Children: 1 to 5 years 2.5 to 10 ml a day, 5 to 17 years 5 to 20 ml a day. It can take 1 to 2 days to work. Liver disease: as your doctor says.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you have a blockage of the bowel or galactosaemia (a rare inherited condition).
Side Effects
Wind, bloating, stomach cramps and, at higher doses, diarrhoea. These often settle after a few days.
Precautions
Drink plenty of water. People with diabetes should know it contains some sugars. See a doctor if constipation lasts more than 2 weeks or comes with severe pain or blood.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Usually considered safe; ask your doctor.
Interactions
No important interactions.
Storage
Store below 30°C, do not freeze, out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.