Lactitol

Laxative · Osmotic laxative

Indications

Treatment of constipation and prevention of hepatic encephalopathy.

Dosage

SYRUP: Constipation: The laxative action may not begin until the 2nd or 3rd day after the initial dose. Patients should maintain an adequate daily fluid intake. The dosage is taken once daily, in the morning or evening, at meal times. Adults: 15 to 30 mL per day, Children: 2 to 6 yr: 10 mL per day. Above 6 yr: 10-15 mL per day. Infants: 5 mL per day. Hepatic encephalopathy: Adults: 30 mL once daily in the evening. For the treatment of acute phases: 45 to 90 mL in 3 divided doses along with main meals. SACHET: Constipation: The laxative action may not begin until the 2nd or 3rd day after the initial dose. Patients should maintain an adequate daily fluid intake. The dosage is taken once daily, in the morning or evening, at mealtimes. Adults: Two sachets (20 gm) taken in a single dose with the morning or evening meal and subsequently adjusted to produce 1 soft stool daily (dose of 10 gm…

Adverse Effects

Abdominal distension, cramp and flatulence. Abdominal discomfort, nausea, dyspepsia, epigastric pain, urgency or anal pruritus and vomiting. Diarrhoea.

Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)

Pregnancy: Risk cannot be ruled out. Lactation: Caution advised or effect undetermined. Contraindications: Appendicitis. Intestinal obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain or bleeding. Galactosaemia. Precautions: Can potentially result in acid-base disturbances, diarrhoea, hypokalaemia and hypernatraemia. Potassium deficiency may increase the risk of toxic effects of glycosides. Monitor serum electrolytes, blood glucose and blood lactate.

Interactions

Increase the potassium losses caused by other medicines (e.g. thiazide, diuretics, corticosteroids, carbenoxolone, amphotericin B). Digitalis therapy, neomycin.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimally absorbed in the small intestine, partially absorbed as unchanged Lactitol. 64% of the dose absorbed in GIT as volatile fatty acids. Excretion: Faeces (6.5%). Urine (<2%).

Brands with this active ingredient

• Lacasil
• Lactisol
• Laxitol

Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.