Skip to content

Lactulose

    Brands

    DEA Class; OTC

    Common Brand Names; Enulose, Kristalose, Constulose, Generlac

    • Laxatives, Osmotic; 
    • Ammonium Detoxicants

    Synthetic derivative of lactose; a disaccharide sugar containing one molecule of galactose and one molecule of fructose; used for hepatic encephalopathy and as a laxative.

    Indicated for the treatment and prevention of hepatic encephalopathy.

    For the treatment of constipation, including constipation related to barium retention.

    Galactosemia (patients require low-galactose diet)

    • Dehydration
    • Diarrhea
    • Excessive bowel activity
    • Hypernatremia
    • Hypokalemia
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Abdominal cramping
    • Abdominal distention
    • Belching
    • Flatulence

    Diabetes (preparation contains lactose and galactose)

    Monitor for electrolyte imbalance when drug is used for >6 months or in patients predisposed to electrolyte abnormalities

    Avoid using other laxatives concomitantly

    Inadequate response possible when taken concomitantly with anti-infective

    Pregnancy category: B

    Lactation: Unknown whether drug is distributed into milk; use with caution

    Specific maximum dosage information is not available. Individualize dosage depending on route, indication, and frequency of bowel movements.

    Lactulose

    oral/rectal solution

    • 10g/15mL

    packet

    • 10g
    • 20g