Devolac

Oral. Can be taken with water or fruit juice. Dosage for constipation usually once daily, for hepatic encephalopathy divided doses.

Lactulose is a non-absorbable disaccharide that passes through the stomach and small intestine largely unchanged. In the colon, it is metabolized by colonic bacteria into low molecular weight organic acids (lactic acid, acetic acid). This leads to an osmotic effect, drawing water into the colon, which softens the stool and increases its bulk, stimulating peristalsis. In hepatic encephalopathy, the acidification of the colon by these organic acids converts ammonia (NH3) to ammonium ion (NH4+), which is not absorbed and is expelled in the feces, thus reducing blood ammonia levels.

• Galactosemia
• Acute abdominal pain (e.g., appendicitis, intestinal obstruction) without diagnosis
• Known hypersensitivity to lactulose or any component

Store below 30°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Symptoms: Diarrhea, abdominal pain, electrolyte disturbances (especially hypokalemia, hyponatremia). Management: Discontinue lactulose, correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Symptomatic and supportive treatment.

Considered safe during pregnancy and lactation as it is minimally absorbed.