Lactulose

Brand Name:Apo- PMS- ratio-Lactulose

Prescription needed: No

What is this drug used for?

Lactulose is a laxative. It works by increasing the water content in the large intestine, which then softens feces and stimulates movement of stool through the intestine. It is used to treat constipation. It is also used to lower the amount of ammonia in the blood in liver disease.

Lactulose may be used for other medical conditions. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not take this drug if you are allergic to lactulose or have an inflamed bowel. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

  • galactosemia (milk sugar disorder)
  • requirement for low galactose diet
  • diabetes
  • lactose intolerance
  • severe abdominal pain
  • recent bowel surgery

What about possible side effects?

The most common side effects are:

  • belching
  • gas
  • stomach cramps

These side effects are usually related to dose. As well, some of these side effects may go away with time. Contact your doctor if these symptoms continue or become worse.

Other less common and possibly severe side effects include:

  • abdominal distension
  • severe diarrhea
  • muscular cramps
  • severe weakness
  • nausea

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications and herbal/natural products) as they may interact with and/or may change the safety or effectiveness of either drug. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as these are the most common interactions and he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely:

  • anticoagulants such as warfarin – may increase risk of bleeding

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your list of medications.

Other information:

The laxative effect of lactulose may take up to 24 to 48 hours.

Diarrhea or very loose stools may be a sign that you are using more lactulose than you need for your system. Check with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you are taking lactulose for constipation without a doctor’s prescription, check with your doctor to examine causes of your medical condition if you still have not seen results or have been using it for more than a week.

Children: Lower dose may be necessary. Talk to your doctor.

Seniors: No known problems.

Pregnant women: No adequate data in human pregnancy. The risk to the fetus may be negligible since the medication is not completely absorbed. Talk to your doctor.

Women who are nursing: Little information is available. Talk to your doctor.

People who drive or operate machinery: No known problems.

Alcohol: If you drink always drink in moderation.

Overdose: A large overdose of this medicine could cause unusual symptoms. If you experience any unusual reactions, or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: This drug may be stopped as soon as it is no longer required.

If you miss a dose: This drug is usually taken as needed. However, if you are on a regularly prescribed dosage, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom) and light; always out of reach of children.

Dietary precautions: If your doctor is not restricting your fluid intake, drinking plenty of water or other liquids will help laxatives to work better. A diet containing fibre with 6 to 8 full glasses of liquids each day, and daily exercise are important in maintaining healthy bowel function. Talk to your doctor.