Lactulose Sol
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Osmotic laxative for constipation and hepatic encephalopathy in dogs, cats, and horses; reduces ammonia absorption.
Non-absorbable synthetic disaccharide laxative/ammonia trapping agent. Mechanism: colonic bacterial fermentation produces organic acids → lowers colonic pH → converts NH3 to NH4+ (non-absorbable) → reduces systemic ammonia absorption. Osmotic effect draws water into colon → cathartic effect. Not absorbed; acts locally in colon.
Key information
Laxative/ammonia-trapping agent. Store at room temperature. Titrate dose to produce 2–3 soft stools/day. May cause flatulence and GI discomfort. Long-term therapy safe.
How to Give this Medication
Oral liquid: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. May mix in water, juice, or wet food to improve palatability. Hepatic encephalopathy: titrate dose to achieve 2–3 soft stools/day. Administer via nasogastric tube; confirm tube placement before dosing. if needed. 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, abdominal bloating, cramping, diarrhea (dose-dependent). Nausea, vomiting. Electrolyte disturbances with excessive doses (hypokalemia, hypernatremia). Dehydration from osmotic diarrhea. Aspirate or inhale risk with nasogastric tube administration.
Precautions
For animals
Titrate to achieve 2–3 soft stools/day for hepatic encephalopathy. Monitor electrolytes with prolonged use. Use with caution in diabetic animals. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment.
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). Laxative — generally safe. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Sticky; rinse skin thoroughly if contact occurs.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Lactulose overdose causes profuse diarrhea and dehydration. Ensure water intake.
Lactulose Sol dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LACTULOSE SOLUTION 10GM/15ML | 10 GM | — | 1 | Commercial |
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)