Chronulac
Generic Name: lactulose (LACK too lohss)
Brand Names: Cephulac, Chronulac, Constulose, Duphalac, Enulose
What is Chronulac (lactulose)?
Lactulose is a type of sugar. It is broken down into mild acids in the colon (the end part of the
intestinal tract). These acids draw water into the colon and thereby soften the stool.
Lactulose is used to treat constipation.
Although not approved by the FDA for this purpose, lactulose is also used to improve
mental alertness of patients with severe liver disease.
Lactulose may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Chronulac (lactulose)?
Notify your doctor if you develop excessive diarrhea.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Chronulac (lactulose)?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you
You may not be able to take lactulose, or you may require a lower dose or
special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Lactulose is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely to harm an
unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether lactulose passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication
without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Chronulac (lactulose)?
Take lactulose exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions,
ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.
To ensure that you get the correct dosage, measure lactulose with a dose-measuring spoon
or cup, not a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist
where you can get one.
Lactulose can be mixed with fruit juice, water, or milk to improve the taste.
It may be 24 to 48 hours before the effects of lactulose are seen.
Lactulose may darken slightly in color. This change is harmless. However, if lactulose becomes
very dark or uneven in consistency, do not use it.
Store lactulose at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the dose you missed and only take your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double
dose of this medication unless otherwise directed.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of a lactulose overdose are not known, but diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and
possible complications of dehydration from excessive diarrhea would be expected.
What should I avoid while taking Chronulac (lactulose)?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are taking lactulose unless
your doctor directs otherwise.
Chronulac (lactulose) side effects
Stop taking lactulose and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic
reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; hives; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; rash;
or fainting).
Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take lactulose and
notify your doctor if you experience
-
flatulence,
-
abdominal cramps,
-
diarrhea, or
-
nausea or vomiting.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Chronulac (lactulose)?
Antacids may decrease the effects of lactulose. Talk to your doctor before taking any
prescription or over-the-counter medications for heartburn or sour stomach.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with lactulose. Talk to your doctor and
pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Where can I get more information?
-
Your pharmacist has additional information about lactulose written for health professionals that
you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Lactulose is available with a prescription generically and under several brand names. Ask your
pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
-
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your
medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
- Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is
accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be
time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the
United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless
specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend
therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners
in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for,
the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or
drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or
appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare
administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover
all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have
questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.06. Revision Date: 8/24/04 1:56:12 PM.
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