Lactulose
Also sold as: Duphalac
No prescription neededConstipation (laxatives)
Comes as:Oral solutionSyrup
Usual adult dose
Usual adult dose for constipation: 15 ml twice a day, then adjusted to give soft stools; it may take 1 to 2 days to work. Higher doses for liver disease are set by your doctor. Children: dose by age — ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- wind
- bloating
- stomach cramps
- diarrhoea at high doses
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- severe diarrhoea with dizziness or weakness (dehydration
- low salts in the blood)
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Bowel blockage
- Galactosaemia (a rare inherited sugar disorder)
- Diabetes (contains some sugars — use with caution at high doses)
Interactions
No important interactions are listed in our database. Still tell your doctor or pharmacist everything you take.