General 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

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
LACTULOSE SOLUTION 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)