LACTULOSE

Drug Name: LACTULOSE

LACTULOSE DESCRIPTION:
LACTULOSE - ORAL (LACK-tew-lohss)

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

LACTULOSE SIDE EFFECTS:
LACTULOSE may cause gas, belching or stomach cramps. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop diarrhea, nausea or vomiting while taking LACTULOSE. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE LACTULOSE:
LACTULOSE: LACTULOSE is taken by mouth. To improve the taste, the dose may be mixed in a glass of fruit juice, water or milk. Take LACTULOSE as prescribed.

LACTULOSE USES:
LACTULOSE is a laxative used to treat constipation.

LACTULOSE PRECAUTIONS:
LACTULOSE must be used cautiously in children and the elderly. If diarrhea results, notify your doctor. A dosage adjustment may be necessary. Do not take any other laxative medications while taking this drug. Frequent or excessive use of laxatives can cause dehydration. Symptoms include muscle weakness, muscle cramps and dizziness. LACTULOSE must be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if LACTULOSE appears in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding. LACTULOSE contains galactose and lactose. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have diabetes.

LACTULOSE DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of antibiotics (e.g., neomycin), antacids and other laxatives. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

LACTULOSE OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach cramps and diarrhea.

MISSED LACTULOSE DOSE:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

LACTULOSE STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Avoid freezing.