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Lactulose

This form:

Pronounced

"LACK-tew-lohss"

Common brand names:

Comalose

Uses

This medication is a laxative used to treat constipation. It may help to increase the number of bowel movements per day and the number of days you have a bowel movement. Lactulose is a colonic acidifier that works by increasing stool water content and softening the stool. It is a man-made sugar solution.

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug, but may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug is also used for complications of liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy).

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily for constipation. If you are taking the solution, to improve the taste, you may mix it into fruit juice, water, milk, or a soft dessert. If you are using the crystals in packets, dissolve the contents of the packet in half a glass of water (4 ounces or 120 milliliters), or as directed by your doctor.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

It may take up to 48 hours to have a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.