Product Category:

LACTULOSE SOLUTION USP

Composition:

Each 15 mL contains: Lactulose Concentrate USP equivalent to Lactulose 10 gm, Palatable Base q.s.

Therapeutic Category:

Laxative

Mechanism of Action:

Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide derivative of lactose that consists of one molecule of galactose and one molecule of fructose. Saccharolytic bacteria present in the large intestine subsequently break lactulose down into organic acids like lactic acid and small amounts of formic and acetic acids. Such resultant volatile fatty acid metabolites, in combination with hydrogen and methane that is also generated consequently enhance intraluminal gas formation, peristaltic gut motility, and elicit an osmotic effect that facilitates an increase in the water content of stool as well as associated stool softening. All of these actions ultimately assist in facilitating and increasing the frequency of bowel movements in patients experiencing constipation. At the same time, the formation of such acids via the metabolism of lactulose by colonic bacteria also acidifies the contents of the colon, thereby contributing to the treatment of portal-systemic encephalopathy (PSE), also known as hepatic encephalopathy. One of the principal features of PSE involves the accumulation of nitrogenous waste products like ammonia in the systemic circulation. If colonic contents become more acidic than blood due to breakdown of lactulose, it allows ammonia in the circulation to diffuse into the colon. Furthermore, ammonia that diffuses into the acidic colon is ionized to ammonium ions that are incapable of being absorbed back into the blood. These effects, combined with the laxative action of lactulose facilitates the excretion of excess ammonia.

Indications:

Lactulose is indicated for use as a laxative in the treatment of chronic constipation in adults and geriatric patients. Additionally, lactulose is also employed as an adjunct to protein restriction and supportive therapy for the prevention and treatment of portal-systemic encephalopathy (PSE), including both the hepatic pre-coma and coma variations.

Dosage:

For Constipation: 1 month to 1 year: 2.5 mL twice daily, 1 year to 5 year: 5 mL twice daily, 5 year to 10 year : 10 mL twice daily, Above 10 year: 15 mL twice daily, For Hepatic Encephalopathy: Above 18 year: 30 to 50 mL thrice daily Or as directed by registered healthcare professional.

Pack Size:

Available in 100 mL amber coloured PET Bottle.