Description:

Lactulose Solution USP 100ml is an osmotic laxative used to treat constipation (including chronic constipation) and to prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy (a brain disorder caused by liver disease). It works by drawing water into the bowel, softening stools and promoting bowel movements, while also reducing ammonia levels in the blood in liver disease patients. It is a safe and effective option for both adults and children.

Prescription: Over-the-counter (OTC) for constipation relief; prescription-only (Rx) when used for hepatic encephalopathy. In Ghana, it is readily available in pharmacies.

Therapeutic Category:

Osmotic laxative / Ammonia-lowering agent.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Active ingredient: Lactulose 3.335 g per 5 ml (67% w/v solution). The 100 ml bottle contains approximately 66.7 g of lactulose. Excipients: Purified water and other standard stabilizers (no added sugars in pure USP formulation).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: Standard 67% w/v oral solution in 100 ml bottle (no major sub-variants).

Consume Type:

Oral (liquid solution; can be taken directly or mixed with water, milk, or fruit juice).

Directions/Usage: For constipation:

• Adults: 15–30 ml (3–6 teaspoons) once daily, usually in the morning.
• Children (7–14 years): 10–15 ml daily.
• Children (1–6 years): 5–10 ml daily.
• Infants: 2.5–5 ml daily (under medical advice).

For hepatic encephalopathy: Higher doses (30–50 ml, 3–4 times daily) under medical supervision to achieve 2–3 soft stools per day.

Adjust dose to produce 2–3 soft stools daily. Take consistently; effects usually appear within 24–48 hours. Follow doctor/pharmacist instructions.

Common Side Effects:

• Flatulence (gas) and bloating (common initially)
• Abdominal cramps or discomfort
• Diarrhoea (if dose is too high)
• Nausea These are usually mild and improve as the body adjusts.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle of 100 ml (with measuring cup or spoon; often in a carton box).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Do not use if you have galactosemia (rare inherited disorder) or intestinal obstruction.
• Use with caution in diabetes (contains small amounts of sugars).
• Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or if you have severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
• Do not exceed recommended dose to avoid severe diarrhoea and dehydration.
• If no bowel movement occurs after 3 days or if you experience severe abdominal pain, stop use and seek medical help.
• For hepatic encephalopathy, use only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring of ammonia levels and electrolytes.

Product Substitutes: Other lactulose solutions in Ghana: Duphalac (original), Lacson, Normase, or generic lactulose 67% w/v (various importers). Consult a pharmacist for equivalents.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Indus Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd. or associated importer/distributor (Indus is an Indian company with products widely distributed in Ghana).

Country of Origin:

India.