Duphalac is a highly effective treatment for constipation and helps with the management of hepatic encephalopathy. It is well-tolerated by most patients, though some may experience mild digestive side effects.
Duphalac is a brand of lactulose, a synthetic sugar used as a laxative. It is primarily used to treat constipation and to help lower blood ammonia levels in people with liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy). The 667mg/ml concentration refers to the amount of lactulose per milliliter in the syrup.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects: Abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. These are typically mild and subside once the body adjusts to the medication.
Serious Side Effects: Severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, or rectal bleeding. If these occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Precautions:
Diabetes: Lactulose can increase blood sugar levels, so caution is advised for diabetic patients.
Hydration: It’s essential to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration from diarrhea, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
Liver Disease: In people with liver disease, Duphalac is used under medical supervision to control ammonia levels in the blood.
Uses:
Relieves constipation by softening the stool and promoting bowel movements.
Used to treat hepatic encephalopathy, a complication of liver disease that can cause confusion and other mental changes due to high blood ammonia levels.
Benefits:
Effective for long-term management of constipation.
Helps reduce the risk of liver-related complications in patients with cirrhosis or other liver diseases by lowering blood ammonia levels.
Adults: The typical starting dose for constipation is 15 to 45 ml per day, which can be adjusted based on response. For hepatic encephalopathy, the initial dose may be higher (20 to 30 ml per day) and adjusted based on ammonia levels.
Children: Dosage will be determined by age and weight and should be managed by a healthcare provider.