Lactulose

Lactulose is a commonly used laxative that causes an increase in the water content in the bowel and thus results in softening of the stool.

Lactulose is a synthetic sugar that is composed of two other sugars (galactose & fructose). In the bowel lactulose is digested into other agents which cause a stimulation in bowel contraction and also an increase in the water content of the stool.

Lactulose is generally well tolerated although side effects include flatulence and abdominal pain. Sometimes patients can also experience diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

Side effects

Lactulose is generally well tolerated although side effects include flatulence and abdominal pain. Sometimes patients can also experience diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.

For a full profile of the side effects of lactulose please refer to the summary of product charcteristics.