Lactulose Solution

What is Lactulose?

Lactulose solution is a type of laxative known as osmotic, which helps to ease constipation by stimulating bowel movements and by drawing water into hard, dry stools making them softer and easier to pass.

Lactulose Solution is made up of sugars and comes pre-prepared as a very sweet syrup which can be diluted with water if needed. It is not absorbed by the body, working solely in the gut.

This product is suitable for children and adults over the age of 14 years to treat long-term or recurring episodes of constipation. It can also be used in children, infants and babies under the age of 14 years under advice from a doctor.

Lactulose for constipation

This product can be bought from The Independent Pharmacy to help soften hard stools and stimulate sluggish bowels to help ease and treat constipation.

Constipation is a relatively common condition and can affect people of all ages. It can be caused by several different factors such as medications, lack of exercise, change in diet or illness. Taking Lactulose alongside eating high-fibre foods, drinking plenty of fluid and getting regular exercise can all help get your bowels moving, easing discomfort.

How does Lactulose work?

Like other osmotic laxatives, Lactulose draws water from other parts of the body into the gut, which is absorbed by hard, dry stools. This process makes the stool larger and softer making it easier and less painful to pass.

Because Lactulose draws water from the body, it is important while using this medicine that you continue to drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated.

How long does lactulose take to work?

Most people will see a noticeable improvement in their bowel movements, feeling more comfortable and less bloated within 2-3 days of using Lactulose. Some people, however, will start to feel the effects of this product within 8-12 hours.

Lactulose not working?

If you have been using Lactulose for 2-3 days alongside lifestyle changes such as eating high fibre food, drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluid, at least 6-8 glasses a day, and exercising and have not seen any improvements to your constipation you should speak to a doctor for advice.

Lactulose is just one type of laxative and you may find that you get on better with a product that works in a slightly different way. For more information why not take a look at our Constipation treatments & advice page.

Taking Lactulose at night

Lactulose usually takes 2-3 days to take a noticeable effect at relieving constipation so it does not need to be taken at bedtime.

Another form of laxative known as a stimulant laxative is recommended to take at night because they work much more quickly, often producing results by the next morning or within 24 hours of taking them.

Lactulose for babies and children

Lactulose is not absorbed by the body so can be taken by babies and children under 14 years old but only under direction from a doctor. Taking laxatives under the age of 14 years should be done so with caution as this can result in children developing difficulties forming the reflexes to pass stool independently if used regularly.

Sources

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/laxatives/
• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
• https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lactulose/
• Lactulose Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5525/pil

Lactulose warnings

Before taking Lactulose, please take the time to read the Patient Information Leaflet thoroughly.

• Do not take Lactulose if you have a blockage that is not caused by constipation or are at risk of bowel perforation.
• Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using lactulose if you have unexplained tummy pain, you are lactose, fructose or galactose intolerant or have diabetes.
• If you are currently taking or have recently stopped taking any other prescribed or non-prescribed medication, speak to a doctor before taking lactulose.

Lactulose in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Lactulose can be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding if it is necessary but you should always discuss starting any new medication with a doctor at this time.

Lactulose dose

Lactulose Solution is for oral use only and should only be taken by children and adults over the age of 14 years unless advised to do so by a doctor.

Adults and children over 14 years old: The starting dose is 15-45ml once a day. Once the desired effect is achieved the dose can be adjusted to 15-30ml once per day.

Children between 7 - 14 years old: The starting dose is 15 ml once a day. Once the desired effect has been achieved the dose can be adjusted to 10-15ml once a day.

Children 1 - 6 years old: The dose is 5-10 ml once a day.

Babies under 1 year: Up to 5 ml once a day.

For full details on how to take Lactulose Solution please read the Patient Information Leaflet.

Lactulose overdose

If you take over the recommended dose of Lactulose it is unlikely to do any harm, however, you may experience diarrhoea and stomach pain that should ease within 48 hours.

If you are worried you should always speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Lactulose ingredients

Active Ingredients: 5 ml of Lactulose oral solution contains 3.3 g Lactulose.

Lactulose side effects

The most common side effect when taking Lactulose is diarrhoea. This is especially common when taking a high dose. In this circumstance, you should reduce the dose until it improves.

Other side effects that have been reported whilst using Lactulose are:

• Bloating
• Excess wind
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain

Side effects are usually fairly mild when taking Lactulose and will usually resolve within a few days. If you become concerned you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.

In the rare case that you experience an allergic reaction that causes difficulty breathing and facial swelling, you should seek immediate medical help.

For full details regarding side effects please read the Patient Information Leaflet.