Product Description.:
Solution , clear , unflavored
This drug is used by mouth or rectally to treat or prevent complications of liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). It does not cure the problem, but may help to improve mental status. Lactulose is a colonic acidifier that works by decreasing the amount of ammonia in the blood. It is a man-made sugar solution.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug, but may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
The form of this drug that is taken by mouth may also be used for treating constipation.
How to use Enulose Oral
If you are taking this medication by mouth for liver disease, take it usually 3-4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. To improve the taste, you may mix it into fruit juice, water, milk, or a soft dessert. The goal is to have 2-3 soft stools each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy (i.e., the number of soft stools each day).
If you are taking this medication by mouth for constipation, take it usually once daily or as directed by your doctor.
This medication can also be given rectally as an enema for liver disease. Mix the recommended amount of lactulose with 700 milliliters (24 ounces) of water or normal saline. Give the solution into the rectum and keep the liquid inside for 30-60 minutes as directed by your doctor. If you keep the enema inside for less than 30 minutes, repeat the dose unless directed otherwise.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
When this drug is given rectally for liver disease, an improvement in your mental status may occur in as little as 2 hours, but if you are taking this medication by mouth, it may take up to 24 to 48 hours. If you are using this medication for constipation, it may take up to 48 hours to have a bowel movement. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side Effects
Gas, bloating, burping, stomach rumbling/pain, nausea, and cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes, seizures.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before using lactulose, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: a low galactose diet (e.g., a diet that includes few or no milk products), certain other bowel problem (bowel obstruction).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes.
Do not take any laxative medications while using this drug. Frequent use or overuse of laxatives can cause a severe loss of body water (dehydration). This is especially likely to occur in children or the elderly. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms of dehydration: muscle weakness, muscle cramps, dizziness.
Before having surgery or other procedures (e.g., electrocautery), tell your doctor or surgeon that you are using this medication.
This medication contains different sugars. If you have diabetes, this medication may affect your blood glucose levels. Monitor your blood glucose regularly, and share the results with your doctor. Your anti-diabetic medications or diet may need to be adjusted.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
