| name | Lactulose |
| classification | Osmotic Laxative |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Not absorbed systemically. Metabolized in the colon by colonic bacteria to lactic acid and acetic acid. | | metabolism | Metabolized in the colon to lactic acid and acetic acid. | | excretion | Excreted in the feces. |
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| suggested dosage | | adult | 15-40 mL orally, 1-3 times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. | | pediatric | Dosage varies depending on age and condition; consult a physician. | | weight specific | No specific weight-based dosage is available. The dosage should be adjusted based on individual needs and response. |
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| indications | | 1 | Treatment of constipation | | 2 | Prevention of constipation in patients with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or taking medications that may cause constipation. | | 3 | Treatment of hepatic encephalopathy (high ammonia levels in the blood). |
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| safety in pregnancy | Limited data. Use with caution during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare professional before use. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Limited data. Use with caution. Consult a healthcare professional before use. |
| side effects | | 1 | Bloating | | 2 | Flatulence | | 3 | Cramps | | 4 | Nausea | | 5 | Diarrhea (may be severe) | | 6 | Dehydration (if not enough fluids are consumed) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to lactulose or any of its components | | 2 | Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance | | 3 | Intestinal obstruction | | 4 | Recent abdominal surgery. |
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| interactions | | 1 | May increase the effect of other laxatives, increasing the risk of diarrhea. | | 2 | May interfere with absorption of certain medications. Consult with a physician. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, especially in individuals with underlying kidney disease or other conditions that affect fluid and electrolyte balance. | | 2 | Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function. Dose adjustments may be necessary. | | 3 | May cause temporary changes in bowel habits. | | 4 | Do not use if there is any suspicion of bowel obstruction or perforation. |
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| additional information | | 1 | Available as a liquid solution or syrup. | | 2 | Administer with plenty of fluids to help prevent dehydration. | | 3 | The effect of lactulose on bowel function may take several hours or days to become apparent. | | 4 | If symptoms worsen or do not improve, consult a healthcare professional. |
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| patient specific considerations | | age | No specific dosage or precautions based solely on a patient's age (25). | | weight | No specific dosage or precautions based solely on a patient's weight (70 kg). | | gender | No specific dosage or precautions based solely on a patient's gender. |
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