Lactulose

Lactulose (Generlac®, Cholac®, Constilac®, Enulose®, Acilac®) is a synthetic sugar used in the treatment of constipation and liver disease. It consists of the monosaccharides fructose and galactose. more...

Constipation

In the treatment of chronic constipation, its metabolites draw water into the bowel, causing a cathartic effect through osmotic action.

Hepatic encephalopathy

In treating hepatic encephalopathy, lactulose helps "draw out" ammonia (NH₃) from the body. The effectiveness of lactulose is somewhat controversial, and whether or not its effects are through ammonia is also controversial as well. Lactulose is metabolized in the colon by bacterial flora to short chain fatty acids, acidifying the colonic contents. This favors the formation of the nonabsorbable NH₄⁺ from NH₃, trapping NH₃ in the colon and effectively reducing plasma NH₃ concentrations.

Bowel Withholding

Lactulose can be used to treat children that withhold their bowel movements out of fear. The usual dosage is 1 tsp. for each year of the child's age, up to 30 ml. Mixed with juice, it is undetectable and works within four hours.

Side effects

Side effects include diarrhea and resultant dehydration and high sodium levels. In rare cases or with excess amounts can cause stomach pain, gas, vomiting, or diarrhea.

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