Lactulose Solution

What is Lactulose?

Lactulose is used to treat constipation by softening stools and making bowel movements easier. Lactulose is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the bowel to soften the stools and make them easier to pass.
It can taken to treat constipation by:

1. Pregnant women
2. Children
3. Adults
4. Elderly

It comes in a solution that can be taken as is, or mixed with water or juice making it easy to take by anyone.

What can cause constipation?

Constipation is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and can be caused by a lifestyle factors such as a lack of fiber in the diet, dehydration, or a sedentary lifestyle. Other causes of constipation include certain medical conditions and medications such as opioids. When left untreated, constipation can lead to discomfort, bloating.

How does Lactulose solution work?

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative and works by drawing water into the bowel to soften the stools and make them easier to pass. The active ingredient Lactulose, is not absorbed into the body and remains in the bowel to increase the water content of the stools. This results in an easier bowel movement and relief from constipation.

The dose of Lactulose Solution

While lactulose is safe for anyone over the age of 1, it should only be taken by anyone under the age of 14 under the supervision of a doctor. The usual doses of lactulose are:

1. Anyone over 14+: Starting dose of 15-45ml and then maintain with 15-30ml a day.
2. 7 - 14 years old: Starting dose of 15ml and then maintain with 10-15ml a day.
3. Children 1 - 6 years old: 5-10 ml a day.
4. Babies under 1 year: 5ml a day.

Lactulose time to work

While some poeple see effects within a few hours, normal lactulose takes up to 48 hours for it to start having an effect. It is important to try this medicine for at least this length of time as well as drinking plenty of fluids before trying something else.

Who cannot take Lactulose?

Lactulose solution is generally safe for anyone over the age of 1. However they may be unsuitable if you:

1. Have ever experienced an allergic reaction to Lactulose or any other ingredient in Lactulose solution.
2. If you are diabetic and are needing to use high doses for a long period of time, it may not suitable as it can affect your blood sugar levels.
3. Have a rare health problem where the body cannot process a sugar called galactose (galactosaemia).
4. Have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as it can increase gas in the stomach and make your IBS worse.

Lactulose solution ingredients

Lactulose, lactose and galactose.

Side effects

You are unlikely to experience any side effects while using Lactulose solution, however like all medications, some people may experience side effects. Common side effects may include:

1. Abdominal discomfort
2. Nausea (feel sick)
3. Vomiting
4. Diarrhoea

However, these side effects are usually mild and should improve as the body adjusts to the medication. More serious side effects include:

1. Severe diarrhoea or vomiting
2. Feeling more tired than usual
3. Shortness of breath
4. Swollen ankles, feet or legs (oedema)
5. Muscle weakness
6. Irregular heartbeat

If you experience any of the above, contact 111 or your docotr for advice

Lactulose and Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea can be a common side effect of Lactulose, if you experience diarrhoea while taking this medication it is important you stay hydrated. You may need to lower your dose if your diarrhoea persists.