Lactulone is an osmotic laxative with active substance Lactulose, a substance capable of making the stool more softened by retaining water in the large intestine and is indicated to treat constipation.
This medicine is available in the form of syrup and its effects are usually obtained after use for a few days in a row, since its function is to restore the regular functioning of the intestine by intensifying the accumulation of water in the faecal cake.
Lactulona is produced by Daiichi Sankyo Brasil Pharmaceuticals, being found in the main pharmacies, being also available in its generic form or similar from other brands, such as Lactuliv. Its price is between 30 to 50 reais per bottle, which is variable according to the place where it is sold.
What is it for
Lactulone is indicated for those who suffer from constipation, because in addition to increasing the number of bowel movements decreases abdominal pain and other discomforts caused by this problem.
In addition, this medication is indicated for the prevention of liver encephalopathy (including the stages of pre-coma or hepatic coma) due to improved bowel functioning.
How to take
Lactulione can be taken preferably in a single dose in the morning or at night, alone or mixed in water or food, such as fruit juice, milk, yogurt, for example, always following medical advice.
The dose used is indicated as follows:
Adults
- Chronic constipation : Administer 15 to 30 ml of lactulone daily.
- Encephalopathy of the liver : Initiate the treatment with 60 ml per day, reaching in severe cases up to 150 ml daily.
Children
Constipation :
- 1 to 5 years of age : Administer 5 to 10 ml of Lactulone daily.
- 6 to 12 years of age : Administer 10 to 15 ml of Lactulone daily.
- Over 12 years of age : Administer 15 to 30 ml of Lactulone daily.
Lactulose can be used for long-term treatment for people with no contraindications, and is safer to use than bowel-stimulating laxatives such as Bisacodyl, for example. Understand the dangers of using laxatives.
Possible side effects
Some of the major side effects of Lactulona include abdominal cramps, gas, belching, diarrhea, bloating of the belly, nausea.
Who should not use
Lactulone is contraindicated in cases of:
- Alergic to the active principle or any component of the formula;
- Intolerance to sugars such as lactose, galactose and fructose, since they may be present in the formula;
- Gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, appendicitis, bleeding or intestinal obstruction or diverticulitis, for example;
- During the intestinal preparation of people who will undergo proctological exams with the use of electrocautery.
In addition, it should be avoided or used only under medical indication in cases of pregnancy, breastfeeding and people with diabetes.