Lactulose 3.3g/5ml Oral Solution – 500ml

Description

Lactulose 3.3g/5ml Oral Solution – 500ml

Lactulose Oral Solution is a laxative used to relieve constipation. It is also used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where the liver is unable to remove toxins from the blood properly.

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How It Works

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative. It works by drawing water into the bowel, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. It also encourages natural bowel movements. It may take 48 hours (2 days) before you notice an improvement in your symptoms.

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Directions for Use

Lactulose can be taken on its own or mixed with water or fruit juice. The usual doses are as follows:

Adults and children over 14 years: 15ml twice daily, adjusted to produce one or two soft stools per day.
Children aged 7–14 years: 10ml twice daily.
Children aged 1–6 years: 5ml twice daily.
Children under 1 year: 2.5ml twice daily.

For hepatic encephalopathy in adults, higher doses may be prescribed by a doctor — always follow medical guidance in this case. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

• Lactulose 3.3g per 5ml

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Possible Side Effects

• Flatulence (wind) and bloating, particularly in the first few days of treatment
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps or discomfort
• Diarrhoea (if the dose is too high)
• Vomiting
• Electrolyte imbalance with long-term high doses (e.g. low potassium or sodium levels)

If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• People who are allergic to lactulose or any of the other ingredients
• People with galactosaemia (a rare inherited condition affecting how the body processes galactose)
• People with a blocked or perforated bowel (intestinal obstruction)
• People who are intolerant to lactose or galactose

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Interactions

Lactulose is not widely known to interact significantly with most medicines. However, if you are taking certain antibiotics (such as neomycin), they may reduce the effectiveness of lactulose when used to treat hepatic encephalopathy. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Lactulose is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as very little is absorbed into the bloodstream. However, it is always best to seek advice before starting any new medicine during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

There is no known significant interaction between lactulose and alcohol. However, alcohol can contribute to dehydration, which may worsen constipation, so it is advisable to drink plenty of water and limit alcohol intake whilst being treated for constipation.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Lactulose is not known to cause drowsiness or affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. You should be safe to carry out these activities as normal whilst taking this medicine.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Weight	405 kg
Brand	Generic
Class	OTC