Advice to patients (4) Lactulose solution
- This is a laxative. It works by keeping water in the bowel and that helps to soften the stools.
- It can take up to three days to work and is best taken regularly, not "when required".
- Lactulose may cause abdominal "fullness" or bloating and an increase in flatulence (wind) for the first few days after starting treatment, but this usually clears if treatment is continued.
- Some people find lactulose unpleasant to take. If necessary, it may be mixed with water, fruit juice or squash.
- Lactulose will help relieve constipation, but other things are important as well. You need to eat plenty of fibre (fresh fruit, vegetables, bran) and to drink plenty of fluid.
This series of "advice tips" on commonly used drugs is written by
pharmacists from the Sussex Pharmacy Academic Practice Unit. It is intended
as a reminder of points to be made by pharmacists as they hand out dispensed
medicines. The list is not intended to be comprehensive but to cover some important
points.
By Carina and Duncan Livingstone
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