Drug Name

Duphalac (lactulose)

Drug Uses

Duphalac is used to treat chronic constipation.

How to use

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

The liquid form of lactulose may become slightly darken in color, but this is a harmless effect. However, do not use the medicine if it becomes very dark, or if it gets thicker or thinner in texture.

Lactulose powder should be mixed with at least 4 ounces of water. You may also use fruit juice or milk to make the medication better.

It may take up to 48 hours before you have a bowel movement after taking lactulose.

If you use lactulose over a long period of time, your doctor may want you to have occasional blood tests. Do not miss any scheduled appointments. Store lactulose at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Lactulose is a type of sugar. It is broken down in the large intestine into mild acids that draw water into the colon, which helps soften the stools.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Duphalac and you are using it regularly, use it as soon as possible. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store at the room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Warnings/Precautions

You should not use this medication if you are on a special diet low in galactose (milk sugar).

Before taking lactulose, tell your doctor if you have diabetes or if you need to have any type of intestinal test using a scope (such as a colonoscopy).

It may take up to 48 hours before you have a bowel movement after taking lactulose

. Stop using lactulose and call your doctor at once if you have severe or ongoing diarrhea.

The liquid form of lactulose may become slightly darken in color, but this is a harmless effect. However, do not use the medicine if it becomes very dark, or if it gets thicker or thinner in texture.

If you use lactulose over a long period of time, your doctor may want you to have occasional blood tests. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

You should not use this medication if you are on a special diet low in galactose (milk sugar).
Before taking lactulose, tell your doctor if you have:

• diabetes; or
• if you need to have any type of intestinal test using a scope (such as a colonoscopy).

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take lactulose.
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether lactulose passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Possible Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using lactulose and call your doctor at once if you have severe or ongoing diarrhea.

Less serious side effects may include:

• bloating, gas;
• stomach pain;
• diarrhea; or
• nausea, vomiting.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

More Information

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach pain, hot and dry skin, confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, and muscle weakness or limp feeling.