Chemical Name: LACTULOSE (LAK-too-lose)
This medicine is a hyperosmotic laxative used to treat constipation. It may also be used to treat encephalopathy by reducing blood ammonia levels.
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have acute appendicitis or a history of gastrointestinal conditions. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. THIS MEDICINE MAY BE MIXED with food, fruit juice, water, or milk. This medicine may also be taken dry from a spoon and washed down with water, juice, or milk. Drink one or more 8-ounce glasses of liquid with each dose. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL DAYS for this medicine to work. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes antacids and laxatives. IF YOU ARE A DIABETIC and are using this medicine, contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar (excessive thirst or urination, nausea, vomiting, or "fruity" breath) after taking this medicine. FOR WOMEN: IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include gas, belching, or abdominal cramps. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience severe diarrhea. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhea and stomach cramping.
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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