Just a few questions from our Pharmacist before you checkout to make sure this medicine is safe for you.
What is Lactulose solution?
Lactulose solution is a remedy for constipation that can also be used to treat a liver disease called hepatic encephalopathy. It’s easy to take, simply mix it with water or another cool drink and drink the solution once a day and it will get to work to ease your constipation. This product is perfect for those who find that their stools are dry or hard, making them difficult to pass.
How can Lactulose help to ease my constipation?
Lactulose helps to ease constipation by working as a stool softener. This means that it draws water into your bowel, softening hardened stools and making it easier for them to pass through your system. This is different from some other laxatives, which work by stimulating your bowel, using muscular contractions to move your stools through your system.
Why do I have constipation?
Constipation is a common problem that many people suffer with at some point in their life. If you haven’t had a poo at least 3 times in one week or find that your poo is drier, lumpier, larger, or harder to push out than usual, then you probably have constipation. Some of the most common causes of constipation include:
- Not including enough fibre in your diet, e.g. fruits, vegetables, cereals
- Not drinking enough
- Not being active enough
- Frequently ignoring the urge to go to the toilet
- Your mental health, e.g. anxiety, depression, stress
- Some medications, e.g. codeine-based medications
Can I use this product if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Lactulose can be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, you should speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking any medication at this time, so you can be sure that this product is the safest choice for both you and your baby.
Can I use this product if I’m taking other medication?
If you’re taking any other medication, including those you obtained without a prescription, you should speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product. Some medications can interact when used together, causing unwanted side effects of making your medication less effective, but a medical professional can help you to avoid this.
How much Lactulose should I take?
The amount of Lactulose you should take with every dose will differ depending on your age:
- Adults and children over the age of 14: Take 15 – 45ml of Lactulose a day to begin with. You can reduce the dosage to 15 – 30ml over time.
- Children aged 7 – 14: Take 15ml of Lactulose a day, to begin with. You can reduce to dosage to 10 – 15ml over time
- Children aged – 1 – 6: Take 5 – 10ml of Lactulose a day
- Children under the age of 1: Take up to 5ml of Lactulose a day
You can take this solution with or without food and can mix it in with fruit juice or water if that makes it easier for you to take. Remember to always drink around 2 litres of water every day while taking this product.
How long should I use this product for?
Lactulose can take 2 – 3 days to start working, so make sure to take this product for at least a few days. If you think you’ll need to take this product for a longer amount of time, speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist to make sure that this is safe for you to do.
When should this product not be used?
Lactulose solution should not be given to children under the age of 14 unless specifically told to by your doctor and under proper medical supervision. Do not use this product if you are allergic to lactulose or any of the other listed ingredients. Do not take this product if you have:
- Galactosaemia
- You have a blockage in your gastrointestinal tract that is caused by anything other than constipation
- A galactose or fructose intolerance
- A Lapp lactase deficiency
- Glucose-galactose malabsorption
You should speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you suffer from any medical conditions or illnesses, such as:
- Unexplained tummy ache
- Being unable to digest milk sugar, also known as lactose intolerance
- Diabetes
- You have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars
Does this product have any side effects?
Like all medications, Lactulose solution can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. These include:
- Diarrhoea
- Passing wind (flatulence)
- Feeling sick
- Being sick
- Abdominal pain
- Electrolyte imbalance due to diarrhoea
If you experience these or any other side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist right away. For more information, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.
How to store this product
Store in a cool, dry place which is below 25 degrees C. Do not refrigerate or freeze this solution. Do not use this product if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Keep out of sight and reach of children.
Important Information
This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk
If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.
Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.
Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.
Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.
Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction
For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.
If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:
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