Lactulose (Duphalac) Flashcards
1
Q
Lactulose (Duphalac) is given to the pt with…
A
- Cirrhosis
- Chronic constipation
2
Q
How does Lactulose (Duphalac) treat constipation?
A
- It is poorly absorbed in the small intestine and colon and cannot be digested by intestinal enzymes.
- The osmotic action retains water, thereby softening feces
- Fecal swelling then promotes peristalsis (1-3 days)
3
Q
How is Lactulose (Duphalac) administered?
A
Via liquid or enema
4
Q
Lactulose (Duphalac) will reduce serum _____ levels.
A
Ammonia
5
Q
Lactulose (Duphalac) tx is deemed effective if a patient has…
A
2-3 stools a day
6
Q
Lactulose (Duphalac) is only used for pts that don’t respond to…
A
Other (bulk-forming) laxatives
7
Q
Why is Lactulose (Duphalac) given to pts with portal hypertension and/or hepatic encephalopathy secondary to chronic liver disease?
A
Because it lowers serum ammonia levels
8
Q
Why do we teach a pt taking Lactulose (Duphalac) to check for watery stools?
A
It may indicate toxic levels of the medication
9
Q
Lactulose (Duphalac): SFX?
A
- Cramping/Intestinal bloating
- Flatulence
- Watery stools/Dehydration
- Hypokalemia
- Hypernatremia
