Composition
Each 100 ml contains: 67g Lactulose.
Properties
Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide which is used in the treatment of constipation and to reduce blood ammonia levels in portal-systemic encephalopathy. When taken by mouth Lactulose is not affected by disaccharidase in the small intestine and therefore not absorbed.
In the colon Lactulose is broken down by saccharolytic bacteria into acetic, formic and lactic acids. The acids result in an increase in osmotic pressure and slight acidification of the colonic contents. This in turn causes an increase in stool water content, softens the stool and stimulates bowel movements.
When larger doses are given, the pH in the colon is reduced sufficiently to cause a decrease in absorption of ammonium ions and other toxic nitrogenous compounds, so that the blood ammonia concentration falls in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
Indications
Dosage
Expressed in terms of the syrup containing Lactulose 3.35 g/5 ml (dose may be mixed with milk or fruit juice to improve flavour).
Constipation
Adults
Initially 15 ml (one tablespoonful) twice daily gradually reduced according to patient’s needs.
Children
Hepatic encephalopathy
30 To 50 ml 3 times daily, subsequently adjusted to produce 2 To 3 soft stools daily.
Contraindications
Galactosaemia and intestinal obstruction.
Side effects
Lactulose may produce gaseous distention with flatulence and abdominal discomfort, such as cramping in about 20% of patients. Excessive dosage may produce diarrhoea. Nausea and vomiting have been reported infrequently.
Precautions
As the syrup contains also small quantities of galactose and lactose, it should be used with caution in diabetics and patients on galactose-free diet (galactosaemia).
Storage
Presentation
Bottles of 120 ml, 200 ml & 300 ml.
For Arabic information: لاكسولاك للإمساك و للوقاية من الغيبوبة الكبدية
لاكسولاك شراب BY PHARMACIA1
