![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 124px 36px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 22px 22px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 24px 24px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Lactulose
INFORMATION ABOUT LACTULOSE
Lactulose Uses
Lactulose is used in constipation, intestine preparation before any surgery and hepatic encephalopathy. It may also be used to treat and prevent complications of liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy).
How Lactulose works
Lactulose works by drawing water into the intestine through osmosis, which makes the stool soft and easier to pass.
Common side effects of Lactulose
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Nausea, Flatulence, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Vomiting
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)
![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 50px 50px"%3E%3C/svg%3E)
We provide you with authentic, trustworthy and revelant information
Read our editorial policy
Medicine brands for Lactulose
Expert advice for Lactulose
- Lactulose should preferably be taken at bedtime as it requires 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
- It is usually taken once a day as needed for up to 2 weeks. Take it exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
- Some healthy tips to prevent constipation from happening:
- Eat more fiber in your diet. Recommended daily intake is 20-35g
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day
- Exercise regularly at least 3 times per week
- Do not hold in stool as that can worsen bowel issues
- Take it atleast 2 hours after taking other medicines, as it may interfere with the absorption of other medicines.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of stomach disorders such as appendicitis or a blockage in your bowel.
Frequently asked questions for Lactulose
It takes about 2-3 days to see the benefits of the treatment. Talk to your doctor if you feel constipated even after 3 days of taking Lactulose.
Lactulose is used to treat constipation which is presented as infrequent bowel movements, hard and dry stools. It is also used in patients with hepatic encephalopathy which is a serious liver problem causing confusion, tremors and decreased level of consciousness.
Yes, Lactulose is a laxative which softens the stools by pulling in water from the body to the large intestine. It is also used to reduce the amount of ammonia in the blood of patients with liver disease.
Lactulose very commonly causes diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Diarrhea and abdominal pain occur due to a high dose. In such cases, the dose should be reduced. Flatulence may occur during the first few days of treatment and may disappear after sometime. This medicine may also cause electrolyte imbalance. However, this is an uncommon side effect.
You should take Lactulose for as long as advised by your doctor. You may also take it for as long as constipation lasts, which may be up to a week. For hepatic encephalopathy, the treatment may be longer, even several months.
Lactulose should not be given to patients who are allergic to it or are intolerant to lactose (cannot process lactose). It should also be avoided in patients having galactosemia, a rare health problem where the body cannot process galactose.
Usually, one laxative is sufficient to relieve constipation. In case you need more, your doctor may advise you to take one more laxative along with Lactulose. The risk of side effects is more with two laxatives.
Taking more than the recommended dose of Lactulose may cause abdominal pain, electrolyte imbalance and diarrhea, which may last for a couple of days.