Duphalac

Lactulose is made up of sugar molecules which are broken down by the bacteria that live in the lower part of the gut. This leads to the contents of the gut becoming more acidic. The acidification of the contents of the gut causes a reduction in the absorption of a chemical called ammonia. The presence of ammonia in the gut causes water to be drawn into the lower bowel, which causes an increase in the water content and volume of the stools, therefore relieving constipation. Lactulose is also used in higher doses to help reduce a complication associated with liver disease called hepatic encephalopathy. In this condition, there is a build up of a chemical called ammonia in the blood, as the liver is not able to convert it into a safe chemical. This leads to adverse effects on the brain. By acidifying the contents of the gut, lactulose reduces the absorption of ammonia from the gut, therefore preventing the adverse effects experienced by people with liver disease.

What is it used for?

- Constipation
- Impairment of brain function caused by liver disease

Warning!

- Drink plenty of fluid whilst taking this medicine.

Use with caution in

- Intolerance to lactose in the diet

Not to be used in

- Blockage of the gut (intestinal obstruction)
- Inherited inability to metabolise galactose in the diet (galactosaemia)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal cramps
- Excess gas in the stomach and intestines (flatulence)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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