Lactulose

Question 1

Lactulose

Answer 1

Pharmacologic Class: Disaccharide
Therapeutic Class: Colonic Acidifier

Question 2

Action

Answer 2

Arrives unchanged into the colon, where it breaks down into lactic acid.

Increases osmotic pressure in the colon.

Makes intestinal contents more acidic than blood.

Prevents ammonia diffusion from intestines into blood.

Question 3

Use

Answer 3

Constipation: It’s commonly used to treat chronic constipation.

Hepatic Encephalopathy: Helps reduce the risk of complications by lowering blood ammonia levels.

Question 4

Complications

Answer 4

Hyperglycemia
Abdominal cramps, distention, diarrhea, flatulence (farting)

Question 5

Contraindications / Precautions

Answer 5

Hypersensitive to lactulose or its components.

Low-galactose diet.

Question 6

Interactions

Answer 6

Antacids

Other Laxatives

Question 7

Client Education

Answer 7

Take diluted with juice, milk, or water.
BM may not occur for 24-48hrs
Do not use other laxatives
Report abdominal distention or severe diarrhea
Increase fluid intake
Increase fiber intake and exercise

Question 8

Dose

Answer 8

Initial: 10-20g/day
MAX: 40g/day