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| Pronunciation |
|
 (LAK
tyoo
lose) |
|
|
| Brand Names |
|
| Cholac®; Constilac®;
Constulose®; Enulose®; Generlac;
Kristalose™ |
|
|
| Therapeutic
Categories |
|
|
Ammonium Detoxicant; Laxative, Miscellaneous |
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|
| Reasons not to take this
medicine |
|
|
If you have an allergy to lactulose or any other part of this
medicine.
Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make
sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling
about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of
face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
If you are on a low-galactose or lactose-free diet.
If you are taking other laxatives. |
|
|
| What is this medicine used
for? |
|
|
This medicine is used to prevent or treat changes in thinking caused
by severe liver disease.
This medicine is used to treat constipation. It may take 1-2 days to
see the full effect. |
|
|
| How does it work? |
|
|
Lactulose decreases absorption of toxins into the system.
It softens the stool by increasing its water
content. |
|
|
| How is it best taken? |
|
|
Take this medicine with or without food. Take with food if it causes
an upset stomach.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
Mix with juice, milk, water, or sweet foods to improve taste.
Those who have feeding tubes can also use the liquid. Dilute with
water first. Flush the feeding tube before and after medicine is
given. |
|
|
| What do I do if I miss a
dose? |
|
|
Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
return to your regular schedule.
Many times this medicine is taken on an as needed
basis. |
|
|
| What are the precautions when
taking this
medicine? |
|
|
If you have diabetes, talk with healthcare provider.
Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix
well with other medicines.
Do not take antacids with this medicine.
Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting
pregnant.
Tell healthcare provider if you are
breast-feeding. |
|
|
| What are the common side effects
of this
medicine? |
|
|
Belly pain or heartburn.
Diarrhea. |
|
|
| What should I monitor? |
|
|
Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the
same?
Follow up with healthcare provider. |
|
|
| Reasons to call healthcare
provider
immediately |
|
|
If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center
immediately or dial 911.
Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest
tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of
face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Severe dizziness or passing out.
Severe diarrhea.
Any rash.
No improvement in condition or feeling
worse. |
|
|
| How should I store this
medicine? |
|
|
Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. |
|
|
| General statements |
|
|
Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's
medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products,
supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare
provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine,
including over-the-counter, natural products, or
vitamins. |
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