Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Constulose, Cephulac, Chronulac, Enulose, Generlac, Kristalose
Lactulose is an osmotic laxative used to treat constipation. It is a synthetic disaccharide sugar that is not absorbed in the small intestine. In the colon, bacteria break down lactulose into products that draw water into the colon, softening the stool and increasing bowel movements. It is also used to reduce blood ammonia levels in patients with hepatic encephalopathy, a condition caused by liver disease. It belongs to the class of drugs known as laxatives and cathartics.
For constipation and hepatic encephalopathy.
Outcome:
Increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
Mechanism:
Additive effects on fluid loss
Outcome:
Reduced effectiveness of lactulose
Mechanism:
Altered pH in the gut
Outcome:
Increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
Mechanism:
Additive effects on bowel movements
Most likely new formulation: Modified-release lactulose for improved overnight efficacy (2026, 70% confidence)
Based on consistent usage and safety profile, the likelihood of lactulose remaining an approved OTC medication is high (95%).
Laxative, Ammonia Reducer
Disaccharide