General Drug Information and Indications

Lactulose for hepatic encephalopathy and constipation in dogs and cats; traps ammonia in colon. Synthetic disaccharide laxative (lactulose). Mechanism: non-absorbable disaccharide metabolized by colonic bacteria to lactic acid, formic acid, and CO2 → decreased colonic pH → traps ammonium (NH4+) from ammonia (NH3) → reduces systemic ammonia absorption (hepatic encephalopathy). Also osmotic laxative — draws water into colon. Not absorbed systemically. Key information Lactulose solution — see lactulose entry. Titrate dose to 2–3 soft stools/day. For hepatic encephalopathy or constipation. Store at room temperature.

How to Give this Medication

Oral: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. May dilute in water or juice for palatability. Administer via nasogastric tube; confirm tube placement before dosing. in hospitalized patients. Titrate dose to achieve 2–3 soft stools/day. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

GI: flatulence, bloating, abdominal cramping, diarrhea (dose-dependent). Nausea. Electrolyte imbalances with chronic use or excessive doses (hypokalemia, hypernatremia). Hyperglycemia potential in diabetics (lactose/galactose content).

Precautions

For animals Hepatic encephalopathy: titrate dose to produce 2–3 soft stools per day. Monitor electrolytes with prolonged use. Use with caution in diabetic animals (lactose content). Not approved for use in food-producing animals. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Lactulose — generally safe. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Sticky — rinse skin if contact occurs.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Lactulose overdose causes diarrhea and dehydration. Ensure water intake.

Enulose Sol dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
ENULOSE SOL 10GM/15ML10 GM—1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)