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lactulose - oral, Cephulac, Chronulac, Constilac

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GENERIC NAME: LACTULOSE - ORAL (LACK-tew-lohss)

BRAND NAME(S): Cephulac, Chronulac, Constilac, Constulose, Duphalac, Evalose

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is a laxative used to treat constipation. It may help to increase the number of bowel movements per day and the number of days you have a bowel movement. Lactulose is a colonic acidifier that works by increasing stool water content and softening the stool. It is a man-made sugar solution.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug, but may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if has been so prescribed by your health care professional.This drug is also used to treat or prevent complications of liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily for constipation, or as directed by your doctor. If you are taking the solution, to improve the taste, you may mix it into fruit juice, water, milk, or a soft dessert. If you are using the crystals in packets, dissolve the contents of the packet in half a glass of water (4 ounces or 120 milliliters), or as directed by your doctor.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.It may take up to 48 hours to have a bowel movement. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Gas, bloating, burping, stomach rumbling/pain, nausea, and cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: diarrhea, vomiting, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.