Lactolax

Generic Name : ( Lactulose )

Therapeutic Group : Laxative & Purgative

Overview:

Lactolax is a type of sugar. It is broken down in the large intestine into mild acids that draw water into the colon, which helps soften the stools. Lactolax is used to treat chronic constipation. Lactolax is sometimes used to treat or prevent certain conditions of the brain that are caused by liver failure, which can lead to confusion, problems with memory or thinking, behavior changes, tremors, feeling irritable, sleep problems, loss of coordination, and loss of consciousness.

Presentation

Oral solution : 3.35 g / 5 ml

Preparation:

Each 5ml Lactolax concentrated oral solution contains Lactulose USP 3.35gm.

Description:

Lactulose, which is not broken down in the stomach and small intestine, begins its action in the large intestine where it is broken down primarily by intestinal bacteria. In this degradation process, lactic acid is produced, this in turn supports the growth of intestinal bacteria important for humans and hinders the growth of putrefactive bacteria. Thus normalization of intestinal flora (eubiosis) results. In addition, the increase in metabolic degradation products in the blood which cannot be sufficiently detoxified by the liver is reduced.
Lactulose improves the transfer of calcium Salts and Phosphates from the intestines, stimulates intestinal peristalsis and leads to a softening of the stool. It also leads to healing and improvement in gum disease through normalization of metabolic processes in the periodontal region.
Even long-term use of Lactolax does not lead to habituation and thus there is no loss of efficacy.

Indications:

1. Constipation (chronic constipation):
In every case of chronic constipation, initial treatment should consist of a diet rich in fiber (vegetables, salads, fruits, supplements of linseeds, wheat germ, etc.) a generous amount of liquids and much physical exercise. Lactolax is only to be taken when these measures prove insufficient.
2. Intestinal flora disturbances: In
- damage to intestinal flora, following therapy with broad spectrum antibiotics
- infants
- gall bladder diseases
- intestinal diseases (colitis, diverticulosis, megacolon)
3. Increased blood ammonia levels (hyperammoniemia in hepatopathy, portal systemic encephalopathy, precoma, coma)
4. Diseases of the gums and the parodontic apparatus (paradontosis, bleeding from the gums, inflammation, dystrophy).

Dosage & Administrations:

Dosage should be followed accurately unless otherwise specified.
1. In constipation (chronic constipation): due to the fact that every organism responds differently to Lactolax, each patient must determine his/her own optimal dose in the course of time.
Adults: Initially, 3 to 6 tea-spoons daily; In long-term therapy, 1.5 to 6 tea-spoons daily.
Children up to 14 years: Initially, 3 tea-spoons daily; In long-term therapy, 1-2 tea-spoons daily.
Infants and toddlers: Initially, 1-2 tea –spoons daily; In long-term therapy, 1 tea – spoon daily.

With Lactolax a prompt laxative effect may be achieved by drinking a mixture of 3-9 tea-spoons in 1/8-1/4 liter water, coffee, tea, fruit juice, or milk on an empty stomach after getting up in the morning. Normally, defecation takes place approximately 2 hours later in the form of a fluid pulpy mass (increased defecation reflex).

2. In damaged intestinal flora (e.g. following long-term antibiotic treatment):
Adults: 1-2 tea-spoons daily
Children: 1 tea-spoon daily

3. For reduction of blood ammonia level (in hepatopathy):
A maximum of 60-100 g Lactulose daily, that is, 18-30 tea-spoons daily

4. In precoma: A maximum of 100 g Lactulose daily, that is 30 tea-spoons Lactolax spread over the course of the day.

5. Diseases of the gums and the parodontic apparatus (paradontopathy).
Adults: 3-6 tea-spoons Lactolax daily.

Warning & Precautions:

Consult a doctor in case of pregnancy or side effects. Lactolax contains a maximum of 11% galactose and a maximum of 2 % tagatose. This is to be taken into account in patients requiring a galactose-free diet. Diabetics may also be use Lactolax taking bread units into account (15 tea-spoons Lactolax equal 1/4 bread unit, diarrhoea may occur in case of overdoses in such a case, Lactolax use should be discontinued and care should be taken that the patient has an adequate supply of water and mineral while undergoing therapy with Lactolax, foods that cause flatulence and excessive intake of carbonated drinks should be avoided).
In treating dysbacteria (disturbances in intestinal flora), a periodic course of treatment with Lactolax (6-8 weeks) is generally recommended. Only after this period of time can be desired change in the intestinal environment be achieved. If Lactolax is taken with or after meals, the laxative effect is reduced and the dose must be increased. The stool regulating effects of Lactolax may last for several days in some patients. Thus Lactolax need only be taken every 2nd and 3rd day in such cases. The action of Lactolax takes place without the aid of a special diet: nevertheless, a diet rich in vitamins and fiber the action of Lactolax in obstinate constipation and parodontosis.

Side Effects:

Life threatening: None expected
Common: Increased thirst, cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, flatulence
Infrequent: Irregular heart beat, muscle cramps
Rare: Dizziness, confusion, fatigue, weakness.

Drug Interactions:

The glycosidic effect of cardiac glycosides can be intensified by potassium deficiency in abuse. Habit forming effects: None known.

Use in Special Groups:

Studies show that Lactulose has no adverse effects. Decisions regarding use during pregnancy and lactation must be made by a registered physician.

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to either galactose and or lactose, galactose-free diet. Gastro-cardial symptom complex (heart problems stemming from the gastrointestinal tract), suspected intestinal obstruction.

Storage Conditions:

Store between 15-30°c.

Commercial Pack:

Lactolax oral solution: Box containing amber glass bottle contains 100ml Lactulose oral concentrated solution, which is equivalent to Lactulose USP 3.35g / 5ml.