Sandoz Lactulose Oral Solution x300ml

Sandoz Lactulose Oral Solution is a synthetic sugar solution used as an osmotic laxative. It’s designed to treat constipation and manage hepatic encephalopathy, a brain condition that occurs due to liver disease. This solution works by drawing water into the colon, softening stools and promoting bowel movements.

Uses

Sandoz Lactulose Oral Solution is primarily used for:

• Treating chronic constipation
• Managing hepatic encephalopathy
• Preventing and treating portal-systemic encephalopathy
• Bowel preparation before certain medical procedures

Benefits

• Effectively relieves chronic constipation
• Manages symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy
• Non-stimulant laxative reducing dependency risk
• Safe for long-term treatment
• Reduces blood ammonia levels in liver disease
• Generally well-tolerated with minimal absorption
• Suitable for various age groups
• Helps maintain regular bowel function
• Can be used during pregnancy when needed

How It Works

Lactulose is not digested in the small intestine but breaks down in the colon by bacterial action. This creates an osmotic effect, drawing water into intestines to soften stool and increase bowel movements. For hepatic encephalopathy, it reduces ammonia production and lowers blood ammonia levels.

Dosage

Take with water or juice. Dosage may be adjusted based on response. Always follow prescribing doctor’s instructions.

Duration of Action

Sandoz Lactulose typically produces bowel movements within 24-48 hours of initial dose. For hepatic encephalopathy, effects on ammonia levels begin within hours. Regular use maintains consistent therapeutic effects. Maximum benefits are achieved with continued daily dosing as prescribed.

Side Effects

Common side effects include bloating, gas, and mild abdominal cramps, which usually subside as the body adjusts. Some patients may experience nausea or diarrhea with higher doses. These effects are typically mild and temporary with proper dosing.

Warning

Do not use if you have galactosemia, intestinal blockage, or follow a galactose-free diet. Diabetic patients should use with caution as it may affect blood sugar levels. Severe diarrhea may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance requiring medical attention.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Sandoz Lactulose is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider before use to ensure appropriateness for your specific situation and to determine proper dosing.

Interaction

• May interact with oral medications, affecting their absorption
• Could enhance effects of other laxatives
• May affect blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
• Possible interaction with aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids
• May reduce effectiveness of some antibiotics if taken simultaneously

Precaution

Use cautiously in patients with diabetes, electrolyte disorders, or inflammatory bowel conditions. Maintain adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Monitor elderly patients for excessive fluid loss. Discontinue if severe abdominal pain or rectal bleeding occurs. Shake well before each use.

Important Information

Sandoz Lactulose should be used as directed by healthcare professionals. Store at room temperature and protect from freezing. If constipation persists beyond one week or worsens, consult your doctor immediately. Ensure adequate fluid intake while using this medication to prevent dehydration. The solution may be mixed with water, juice, or milk to improve taste.