Lactulose



Constulose®; Enulose®; Generlac; Kristalose™







Lactulose

(LAK tyoo lose)

U.S. Brand Names
Constulose®; Enulose®; Generlac; Kristalose™
Canadian Brand Names
Acilac; Apo-Lactulose®; Laxilose; PMS-Lactulose
Mexican Brand Names
Lactulax®; Regulact®
Pharmacologic Category
Ammonium Detoxicant; Laxative, Miscellaneous
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to lactulose or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you are on a low-galactose or lactose-free diet.
  • If you are taking other laxatives.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to prevent or treat changes in thinking caused by severe liver disease.
  • This medicine is used to treat constipation. It may take 1-2 days to see the full effect.
How does it work?
  • Lactulose decreases absorption of toxins into the system.
  • It softens the stool by increasing its water content.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
  • Mix with juice, milk, water, or sweet foods to improve taste.
  • Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Dilute with water first. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is given.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Many times this medicine is taken on an as needed basis.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have diabetes, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Do not take antacids with this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Belly pain or heartburn.
  • Diarrhea.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe dizziness or passing out.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature. Do not freeze.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: