Lactulose
Treatment for constipation and hepatic encephalopathy / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lactulose is a non-absorbable sugar used in the treatment of constipation and hepatic encephalopathy.[3][4] It is administered orally for constipation, and either orally or rectally for hepatic encephalopathy.[3] It generally begins working after 8–12 hours, but may take up to 2 days to improve constipation.[1][2]
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Pronunciation | /ˈlæktjʊloʊs/ |
Trade names | Cholac, Generlac, Constulose, others |
Other names | 4-O-β-D-Galactosyl-D-fructose |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
MedlinePlus | a682338 |
Routes of administration | By mouth |
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Bioavailability | Poorly absorbed |
Metabolism | 100% in colon by enteric bacteria |
Onset of action | 8 to 48 hours[1][2] |
Elimination half-life | 1.7–2 hours |
Excretion | Fecal |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.022.752 |
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Formula | C12H22O11 |
Molar mass | 342.297 g·mol−1 |
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Common side effects include abdominal bloating and cramps.[3] A potential exists for electrolyte problems as a result of the diarrhea it produces.[3] No evidence of harm to the fetus has been found when used during pregnancy.[3] It is generally regarded as safe during breastfeeding.[5] It is classified as an osmotic laxative.[6]
Lactulose was first made in 1929, and has been used medically since the 1950s.[7][8] Lactulose is made from the milk sugar lactose, which is composed of two simple sugars, galactose and glucose.[9][3] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[10] It is available as a generic medication.[4] In 2021, it was the 265th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 1 million prescriptions.[11][12]