Therapeutic Action
Osmotic laxative
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Drug reference
Osmotic laxative
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Prevention of constipation in patients taking opioid analgesics (e.g. codeine, morphine)
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Do not administer to patients with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, intestinal obstruction, undiagnosed abdominal pain. May cause: abdominal discomfort, flatulence and diarrhoea. In the event of diarrhoea, exclude a faecal impaction and intestinal obstruction; reduce the dose. Pregnancy: no contra-indication Breast-feeding: no contra-indication
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10 g/15 ml oral solution, to be administered using a measuring device (oral syringe, measuring spoon, or cup with graduations)
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Child under 1 year: 5 ml daily (3.3 g daily) Child from 1 to 6 years: 5 to 10 ml daily (3.3 to 6.7 g daily) Child from 7 to 14 years: 10 to 15 ml daily (6.7 to 10 g daily) Child over 14 years and adult: 15 to 45 ml daily (10 to 30 g daily) Start lactulose when analgesic treatment continues more than 48 hours. Lactulose must be taken daily, until the end of the opioid treatment. Regular follow up (frequency/consistency of stools) is essential in order to adjust dosage correctly.
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It may take up to 48 hours, or even longer, before the treatment is effective. Lactulose is not indicated in acute constipation where a rapid result is needed. If necessary, lactulose may be given in combination with a stimulant laxative (e.g. bisacodyl, senna). The oral solution may be taken undiluted, or diluted in water. The treatment should be accompanied by dietary measures (fluids and fibre).
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Below 25 °C. Do not store in a refrigerator (cristallisation).
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5 ml daily (3.3 g daily)
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5 to 10 ml daily (3.3 to 6.7 g daily)
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10 to 15 ml daily (6.7 to 10 g daily)
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15 to 45 ml daily (10 to 30 g daily)
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