Laevolac

Lactulose, the active ingredient in Laevolac, is an osmotic laxative presented as an oral solution for oral use. It is employed to relieve constipation and to prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver disease. The solution is formulated to be palatable and is approved for distribution across the European Union, where it is commonly prescribed for gastrointestinal and hepatic indications.

GNH USA supplies Laevolac as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies, transplant centres and oncology centres worldwide, ensuring quality and regulatory compliance for global markets.

Laevolac (lactulose) acts as an osmotic laxative and ammonia‑lowering agent, addressing conditions related to bowel motility and hepatic ammonia accumulation.

- Constipation: softens stool and increases bowel movements, providing relief from infrequent or difficult defecation. - Hepatic encephalopathy: reduces blood ammonia levels, helping to prevent or improve neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with liver disease. - Hyperammonemia in liver disease: lowers systemic ammonia, supporting metabolic control in chronic liver conditions.

Lactulose may cause gastrointestinal and metabolic reactions, ranging from mild to serious.

Common Side Effects: - Flatulence: increased intestinal gas. - Abdominal cramps: intermittent stomach pain. - Diarrhea: loose stools, especially at higher doses.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Electrolyte imbalance: notably low potassium. - Severe dehydration: from excessive fluid loss. - Allergic reaction: rash, itching, or swelling.

When prescribing Laevolac, clinicians should consider several safety measures to minimise risks.

- Assess renal function: impaired kidneys may reduce lactulose clearance. - Monitor electrolytes: especially potassium, during prolonged therapy. - Use caution in diabetics: lactulose contains sugars that may affect glucose control. - Avoid in galactosemia: patients lack the ability to metabolise certain sugars. - Adjust dose in hepatic failure: severe liver dysfunction may require careful titration. - Store at room temperature: keep below 25°C in the original container, protect from moisture.

Lactulose can influence the activity of other medicines, requiring attention to potential interactions.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide): may counteract lactulose’s laxative effect. - Broad‑spectrum antibiotics: can alter colonic flora, reducing lactulose metabolism. - Oral phosphate binders: may bind lactulose, decreasing its efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Metformin: combined use may increase gastrointestinal discomfort. - Sucralfate: may decrease lactulose absorption if taken simultaneously. - Iron supplements: can reduce lactulose’s osmotic activity when co‑administered.