Constipation is a problem that many people have, but are a little reluctant to talk about. Sometimes, only the person who suffers from it knows the discomfort that comes with not having a bowel movement for days. So, when you go to a doctor for this, a medicine that is often prescribed, and many people know, is the sweet syrup called Lactulose. Today, let's talk about what Lactulose is, how it works in our body, how to use it, and what things to be careful about.
What does this medicine called Lactulose actually do?
Simply put, Lactulose is a laxative. But it is not as harsh as some other laxatives. Lactulose is an artificially made sugar. When we drink it, our body cannot absorb this sugar.
So what happens? This Lactulose syrup goes straight to our large intestine. There, it acts like a sponge. That is, it draws in the water around it and takes it inside. When it draws in water in this way, that water is added to the stool that has been stuck in our intestines for days, like a stone.
Just like adding water to dry soil softens it, Lactulose adds water to the stools in our intestines and softens them. When the stools are soft, they can be easily and painlessly passed out of the body.
In addition, this process also slightly increases the pressure inside the intestine, stimulating the intestinal muscles and aiding in the process of defecation.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Lactulose, it is very important to inform you of some facts about your health condition, as this will ensure your safety.
| Situation you need to report | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you are prescribed a galactose-free diet | Lactulose is a type of sugar, so it's essential to tell your doctor if you're on a special diet like this. |
| In the futureIf you are going to have surgery | It is important to keep the intestines clean before some surgeries, and the use of lactulose may affect this. |
| If you have allergies to lactulose, other sugars, medications, foods, or preservatives | Informing your doctor about any allergies can help prevent severe allergic reactions. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Any medication should be taken only under medical advice during pregnancy. Although lactulose is generally safe, it is important to inform your doctor . |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Inform your doctor to be sure whether the medication is affecting the baby through breast milk. |
How to use Lactulose syrup
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
- Correct dosage: Always take the correct amount, at the correct time, as prescribed by your doctor. Never increase or decrease the dose arbitrarily.
- Measuring cup: Use only the measuring cup or special spoon that comes with the medicine bottle. Do not measure with teaspoons or tablespoons that you have at home, as their measurements are not accurate.
- Drink water: Drink a full glass of water every time you take lactulose. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is another way to help soften your stools.
- If you miss a dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed dose.
- Overdose: If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Can it interact with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with Lactulose. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, especially:
- Antacids - These are medicines used to treat stomach inflammation and gastritis.
- Neomycin is an antibiotic.
- Other laxatives (Other laxatives ).
This list may not be comprehensive, so be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbs, and supplements you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Lactulose can cause minor side effects. But don't worry, most of these are not serious.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Severe allergic reactions | Skin rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. If this happens, go to a hospital immediately. |
| Things that usually come and go, but should be discussed with your doctor if they persist | |
| Gas | The first few days after starting to use the medicine may feel like your stomach is being filled. |
| Stomach cramping/pain | You may get a slight stomach ache. |
| Nausea and vomiting | Some people may experience nausea or vomiting. |
| Diarrhea | If the dose of medicine is a little too high, you may experience stomach upset. If that happens, tell your doctor. He or she will adjust the dose. |
How to store medicine and other things
- Time to see results: You won't see results right away after taking this medicine. It may take about 24 to 48 hours (a day or two). So don't worry, be patient.
- Storage: Store the medicine bottle at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets. Never freeze.
- Color change: Since this is a sugar solution, it may turn a little brown when it is used. This is normal and does not affect the quality of the medicine. However, if the syrup has turned a very dark color, ask your doctor before using it.
- Expiration: If the expiration date on the bottle has passed, discard the medicine without using it.
Take-Home Message
- Lactulose is a medicine given for constipation. It draws water into the intestines, softening the stool and making it easier to pass.
- Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dosage at your own discretion.
- It may take 24-48 hours to see results after taking the medicine, so be patient.
- It is very important to drink plenty of water while taking the medication and throughout the day.
- Stomach aches, nausea, and bloating are normal at first. However, if you experience allergic symptoms such as skin rashes or difficulty breathing, see a doctor immediately.
- Don't forget to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking and any allergies you may have.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 Lactulose (Lactulose / Enulose) syrup is a medicine given for which disease?
This liquid medicine is used for two main purposes. 1. It is commonly taken as a laxative for 'severe constipation' from pharmacies. 2. The other is that it is the main medicine given by hospitals to patients with cirrhosis of the liver and causes psychosis (Hepatic Encephalopathy).
💬 How does this honey (Lactulose) cleanse the intestines when you have constipation?
In a wonderful way! It has an osmotic action like battery acid/salt. When you drink this liquid (artificial sugar), it is not absorbed into the intestines. Instead, this lactulose acts like a sponge by 'drawing all the water in the body into the intestines'. Then all the feces that were stuck in the form of stones and tin cans are dissolved in that water, loosened and slide out very easily.
💬 How does this help bring back consciousness in liver problems (Hepatic Encephalopathy)?
When the liver is damaged, the 'ammonia poison' produced by the bacteria in the intestines cannot be removed by the liver. That ammonia poison goes to the brain and the patient loses consciousness/goes crazy. When this sugar (Lactulose) goes to the intestines, it makes the intestines acidic. Then, since all that ammonia poison is passed out with the feces (like diarrhea), the poison going to the brain stops and the patient regains consciousness (which is why the stomach can become full/gassy).
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