Lactulose

Lactulose, the active ingredient in Lactulose, is an osmotic laxative presented as an oral solution for oral use. It treats constipation and hepatic encephalopathy in adult patients, helping to soften stool and reduce blood ammonia levels.

GNH USA supplies Lactulose as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide. The company adheres to stringent quality standards and provides reliable logistics for global distribution. Customers benefit from consistent product availability, regulatory support, and dedicated technical assistance throughout the supply chain.

Lactulose is used as an osmotic laxative and ammonia‑lowering agent in the following clinical situations:

- Constipation: softens stool and promotes bowel movements in patients with functional constipation. - Hepatic encephalopathy: lowers colonic ammonia production, helping to improve mental status in patients with liver disease. - Prevention of recurrent hepatic encephalopathy: maintains low ammonia levels to reduce the risk of relapse in chronic liver disease.

Lactulose may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are related to its laxative action.

Common Side Effects: - Abdominal bloating - Flatulence - Diarrhea - Nausea - Abdominal cramps - Thirst

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hyponatremia) - Dehydration - Allergic skin reaction (rash, urticaria) - Severe abdominal pain

When prescribing lactulose, clinicians should consider the following precautions to ensure safe use.

- Assess renal function: adjust use in patients with renal impairment. - Monitor electrolytes: watch for hyponatremia or potassium shifts during prolonged therapy. - Use caution in diabetes: the metabolites may affect blood glucose. - Avoid in intestinal obstruction: risk of perforation. - Adjust dose in hepatic impairment: monitor ammonia levels. - Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Lactulose can interact with other medicines, influencing efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concurrent use with strong laxatives (e.g., senna, bisacodyl): may cause excessive fluid loss. - Combination with diuretics: increased risk of electrolyte disturbances. - Co‑administration with antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide): may reduce lactulose effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Antibiotics that alter gut flora (e.g., rifaximin): may affect lactulose metabolism. - Oral hypoglycemic agents: changes in carbohydrate absorption may modify glucose control. - Mineral supplements (e.g., calcium, magnesium): may bind acids and lessen laxative effect.