Product Introduction

LACTIKAND Syrup contains lactulose, a synthetic sugar that is poorly absorbed in the upper digestive tract. It reaches the colon, where intestinal bacteria break it down into substances that increase the water content of the stool.

This action can help ease constipation. The effect is not always immediate and may take approximately 24 to 48 hours, or sometimes longer, depending on the individual and the treatment plan.

Uses of LACTIKAND Syrup

• Constipation: Helps soften hard stools and make bowel movements easier.
• Chronic constipation: May be recommended as part of a clinician-directed bowel management plan.
• Hepatic encephalopathy: Lactulose may be prescribed by a specialist to help reduce the absorption of ammonia in certain patients with serious liver disease.

The use for hepatic encephalopathy requires specific medical supervision and must not be self-managed. The approved indications for LACTIKAND should be confirmed from its own product information.

Benefits / Potential Benefits

• Helps soften stools by increasing water in the bowel.
• May make bowel movements more comfortable for people with constipation.
• Can support a regular bowel routine when used as directed.
• When prescribed for hepatic encephalopathy, helps reduce ammonia absorption through its effects in the colon.

Results vary from person to person. Adequate fluids, dietary fibre and physical activity may also help constipation when appropriate for the patient's health.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects of lactulose include:

• Gas or flatulence.
• Bloating and abdominal cramps.
• Nausea or stomach discomfort.
• Diarrhoea, particularly if the amount taken is excessive.
• Fluid loss and electrolyte disturbances if severe or persistent diarrhoea occurs.

How to Use LACTIKAND Syrup

• Use the medicine according to the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Measure the prescribed amount using a suitable medicine-measuring device rather than a household spoon.
• The solution may be taken as directed on the product label; follow any instructions about taking it with water or other liquids.
• Drink adequate fluids if appropriate for your condition, unless your clinician has advised fluid restriction.
• Do not repeatedly increase the amount because bowel movements have not occurred immediately.
• For hepatic encephalopathy, follow the specialist's exact instructions and monitoring plan.

The product concentration and individual dose have not been supplied, so a specific dosage schedule cannot be stated here.

How It Works

Lactulose passes through the upper digestive tract with limited absorption and reaches the colon. There, bacteria break it down into smaller organic acids.

These substances increase osmotic pressure in the bowel, drawing water into the stool and making it softer. This promotes bowel movement.

In hepatic encephalopathy, lactulose also acidifies the contents of the colon, helping convert absorbable ammonia into ammonium, which is less readily absorbed and can be eliminated in stool.

Safety Advice

• Severe abdominal symptoms: Do not self-treat unexplained severe abdominal pain, vomiting or suspected bowel obstruction; seek medical assessment.
• Diabetes: Some lactulose solutions contain small amounts of other sugars. Check the specific product information and ask your clinician or pharmacist if you have diabetes.
• Fluid and electrolyte balance: Excessive diarrhoea can cause dehydration and changes in electrolytes. Infants, older adults and medically vulnerable patients may need particular care.
• Liver disease: If prescribed for hepatic encephalopathy, use it under specialist supervision and follow the recommended monitoring plan.
• Other medicines: Tell your healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements you take, particularly if you are receiving treatment for liver disease or have electrolyte problems.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether this product is appropriate for you.
• Children: Use in infants and children only according to appropriate professional advice.

Quick Tips

• Check the product concentration before measuring each dose.
• Use a marked measuring cup, oral syringe or other suitable medicine-measuring device.
• Allow time for the medicine to work; do not take extra amounts to force an immediate bowel movement.
• Maintain a suitable bowel routine, dietary fibre intake and physical activity where appropriate.
• Contact your healthcare professional if constipation persists or repeatedly returns.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and follow the storage instructions on the label.
• Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and do not use it after its expiry date.