Duphalac (66.7g/100ml) 240ml Syrup

Lactulose is a disaccharide synthetic sugar used in the treatment of chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. The enzyme lactase in the small intestine breaks it down into its constituent monosaccharides, glucose and fructose. This fermentation process produces gases including hydrogen and methane, which stimulate peristalsis, resulting in increased motility and softening of the stool, and normalization of stool frequency. It also inhibits the absorption of ammonia in the intestines.

Lactulose

Laxative , Lactose Derivative

Syrup/Suspension

Lactulose is utilized for the following therapeutic indications:

• Used as a laxative to treat constipation.
• Helps in softening stools by drawing water into the colon.
• Employed in the management of hepatic encephalopathy by reducing blood ammonia levels.
• Promotes regular bowel movements in patients with chronic constipation.
• May be used as part of a bowel preparation regimen before medical procedures.

Tailoring Treatment for Optimal Health, Prescribed Medication Dosage is:

• Lactulose should be dosed at 30-60ml every 8 hours
• Lactulose can be quite effective for constipation when taken in the dosage of 1-4 tablespoons (15-60 ml) a day, divided into 3-4 doses
• Lactulose is commonly used as an irritable bowel syndrome medication when taken in the dosage of 0.5 to 1.5 tablespoons (7.5-22.5 ml) 4 times a day
• Lactulose is also administered to patients with Hepatosis in the dosage of 1 tablespoon (15 ml) 4 times a day
• Portal-systemic encephalopathy is also treated with Lactulose at a dosage range of 1-3 tablespoons (15-45 ml) every 8 hours
• Acidosis is treated with Lactulose at a dosage of 0.5-1.5 tablespoons (7.5-22.5 ml) every 6 hours
• Lactulose also treats Osteoporosis at a dosage of 0.5-1 tablespoon (7.5-15 ml) a day

Lactulose is a disaccharide, meaning it is composed of two sugars, glucose and galactose. When lactulose is broken down in the small intestine, the resulting sugars are absorbed and traveled through the body for energy. However, when lactulose reaches the large intestine, it is fermented by bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These short-chain fatty acids are used for energy by the cells of the colon, and they also possess various biological effects, such as decreasing inflammation and maintaining intestinal barrier function. This fermentation process also aids in preventing bacterial overgrowth in the colon, which may otherwise lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and discomfort. Lactulose is commonly used as a treatment for chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. Constipation is a condition characterized by difficult or infrequent bowel movements, and lactulose helps to treat this condition by drawing water into the colon from surrounding tissues, softening the stool, and stimulating bowel movements. It is also used to treat hepatic encephalopathy, a type of brain dysfunction that occurs when the liver is unable to remove toxins from the blood, and these toxins affect the brain. Lactulose is thought to help treat this condition by lowering the concentration of ammonia in the blood, a result of its fermentation by intestinal bacteria. While generally considered safe, excessive ingestion of lactulose can lead to diarrhea and abdominal cramps. This occurs when there is excessive fermentation of lactulose in the colon, resulting in an increase in bowel movements and dehydration. In these instances, oral or intravenous electrolytes are administered to help replenish the body's lost fluids and maintain proper electrolyte balance. Frequent monitoring of lactulose intake as well as monitoring of glucose and galactose levels in the blood may be necessary. If the patient is experiencing severe symptoms or dehydration, hospitalization may be necessary for more intensive therapy and monitoring.

If you miss a dose of lactulose, it is important to take it as soon as possible. If it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose, it is recommended to skip the missed dose and resume taking the medication on your regular schedule. It is not advisable to take extra medication to make up for the missed dose as it can lead to an overdose or adverse effects.It is essential to never stop taking the lactulose or change the dosage without first consulting your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about missing a dose or taking lactulose, it is always best to speak with your doctor or pharmacist for guidance and advice. They can provide personalized instructions based on your health condition and dosing schedule.

Lactulose is a medication that is given to treat two conditions:

Discerning instances where this medication may not be appropriate:

• If you are allergic to lactulose or any of the other ingredients in the medication, you should not take it.
• Lactulose 66.5g/100ml can cause diarrhea as a side effect, and it may interact with other medications that can also cause loose stools. If you are taking any other medications, it is important to discuss this with your doctor before starting lactulose.
• Very high doses of lactulose can have effects on blood chemistry, including blood glucose and electrolytes like potassium. If you have severe kidney disease or other problems with your kidneys, this may preclude you from taking this medication.
• People with an intolerance or allergy to lactose may experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after taking lactulose.
• People with Crohn's disease or IBS may also experience worsening of symptoms after taking it and should speak to their doctor before taking lactulose.
• It is important to discuss your medical history, any known drug allergies, and any other medications you are taking with your doctor before starting Lactulose 66.5g/100ml.

Unraveling the side effects lurking behind this medications are as follows:

• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Increased blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
• Hypernatremia (high sodium levels)
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
• Gastrointestinal bleeding (rare)
• Allergic reactions (rare)
• Excessive use may lead to dependence on laxatives

When mixing lactulose syrup with water, it is important to stick to the recommended ratio of 1 ml of syrup per 5 ml of water. The mixture should be combined thoroughly and used immediately after preparation. Lactulose suspensions are photosensitive and should be stored in a refrigerator set to a temperature of about 7 degrees Celsius. It is essential to shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure the sugar molecules are evenly distributed before consumption. Lactulose suspensions are best used within 30 days after preparation, and any unused portion should be discarded to avoid unnecessary consumption. Following the dosing and storage instructions carefully allows the medication to work effectively in treating constipation and associated symptoms. If you have any questions regarding storage, usage, or potential medical conditions that may interfere with taking lactulose, it is advisable to consult a pharmacist or physician for further guidance.