Lactulose

Drug #413

Lactulose is a synthetic derivative of lactose, chemically Lactulose is identified as 4-0-ß-D-Galactopyranosyl-D-fructofuranose. Lactulose is a disaccharide sugar containing one molecule of galactose and one molecule of fructose. It is used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy and as a osmotic laxative. Clinical response in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy is about equal to that of neomycin. It was approved by the FDA in 1976.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Disaccharide Carbohydrate.

It is classified in Antimicrobial Agent pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 342.3 · Solubility in Water: Freely soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: Sparingly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Lactulose.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Lactulose has an oral bioavailability is 1% (±1%).

Elimination: it is metabolised via Colon, renal excretion is ~ 3 %.

Indications

Lactulose is primarily indicated in conditions like Constipation, Hepatic encephalopathy.

Contraindications

Lactulose is contraindicated in conditions like Galactosaemia, GI obstruction.

Dosage

Lactulose's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
15 g	15 g	—
80 g	80 g	Every 24h		In 3 divided doses for hepatic encephalopethy.
22.5 ml	22.5 ml	—	PO	As Required
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
15 ml	15 ml	—		As required according to age.
335 mg/kg	335 mg/kg	Every 12h	Oral	-
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
209.3 mg/kg	209.3 mg/kg	Every 12h	Oral

Drug Interactions

Unknown1 interaction

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Lactulose in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypokalemia , Hyponatremia , Hyponatremia.

Lactulose produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Dehydration . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Lactulose are Diarrhea, Hypernatremia.

Lactulose is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Bloating , Diarrhea, Eructation, Flatulence, Nausea and vomiting.

Warnings / Precautions

Lactulose should be use with caution in diabetic patients. Avoid use in patients with intestinal obstruction, in patients on low galactose diet. It is relatively contraindicated prior to surgery, especially if the procedure requires the electroquatery during colonoscopy and procto-scopy. The drug should only be used during pregnancy and lactation when clearly needed.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Soln

3.35 g/5ml

Susp

3.35 g/5ml

Syrup

3.35 g 3.35 g/5ml 3.35 gm

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Syrup

3.35 g 3.35 gm

Syrup

3.35 g/5ml

Storage Conditions

Lactulose should be stored Oral Syrup, Rectal Soln.

Drug Classification

1.17.6 — Laxatives