Product image of Lactulose Hexal (Lactulose) supplied by GNH India

Lactulose Hexal

Active Ingredient:
Lactulose
Origin:
EU

Lactulose Hexal (Lactulose)

Lactulose, the active ingredient in Lactulose Hexal, is an osmotic laxative presented as an oral formulation for oral use. The compound works by increasing the osmotic pressure within the intestinal lumen, drawing water into the colon to soften stools and promote bowel movements, while also converting intestinal ammonia to ammonium for excretion. It is employed to relieve constipation and to reduce ammonia absorption in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.

GNH India supplies Lactulose Hexal as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Hexal Ag

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Indications & Clinical Uses

  • Lactulose is used as an osmotic laxative to manage conditions related to bowel motility and hepatic ammonia accumulation.
  • Constipation: softens stool and increases bowel movement frequency, helping to relieve occasional or chronic constipation.
  • Hepatic encephalopathy: lowers intestinal ammonia production and absorption, supporting the management of hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver disease.

How It Works

  • Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide that is not absorbed in the small intestine. In the colon, bacterial enzymes hydrolyze it to short‑chain fatty acids, which lower colonic pH and create an osmotic gradient that draws water into the lumen, softening stools. The acidic environment also converts ammonia (NH3) to ammonium (NH4+), reducing its absorption and facilitating its excretion.

Side Effects

Lactulose may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are related to its laxative action.

Common Side Effects

  • Abdominal bloating
  • Flatulence
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Severe electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hyponatremia, hypokalemia)
  • Allergic reaction such as rash, itching or swelling
  • Intense abdominal pain or rectal bleeding

Precautions & Warnings

When prescribing lactulose, several precautionary measures should be considered to ensure safe use.

  • Assess renal function: monitor for potential accumulation in patients with severe renal impairment.
  • Monitor electrolytes: watch for imbalances due to fluid loss from diarrhea.
  • Use caution in diabetic patients: lactulose contains small amounts of sugar that may affect glucose control.
  • Avoid in intestinal obstruction: the drug can exacerbate blockage.
  • Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Lactulose can interact with other medicines, affecting their efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Concurrent use with other strong laxatives: may cause severe dehydration and electrolyte loss.
  • Broad‑spectrum antibiotics that alter gut flora: may reduce lactulose’s conversion to acids and diminish its effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Antidiabetic agents: lactulose may interfere with glucose monitoring, requiring dose adjustments.
  • Mineral supplements (e.g., magnesium, calcium): can increase osmotic load and risk of diarrhea.
  • Probiotic preparations: may modify colonic fermentation and affect lactulose activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lactulose Hexal is indicated for the relief of constipation and for the management of hepatic encephalopathy. In constipation, it softens stools and promotes regular bowel movements. In hepatic encephalopathy, it helps lower blood ammonia levels by reducing its absorption from the gut.

Lactulose is a non‑absorbable sugar that reaches the colon unchanged. Colonic bacteria ferment it into short‑chain fatty acids, which lower the pH and create an osmotic gradient that draws water into the lumen, softening stool. The acidic environment also converts ammonia to ammonium, decreasing its systemic absorption.

The dose of Lactulose Hexal is individualized by the prescribing healthcare professional based on the patient’s condition, severity, age, renal function and response. No fixed regimen is provided here; the prescriber will adjust the amount to achieve the desired clinical effect while monitoring tolerance.

Safety data for lactulose in pregnancy and lactation are limited. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies any possible risk to the fetus or infant, and the decision must be made by a qualified healthcare provider.

To place an order, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India supplies hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative, differing from stimulant laxatives such as bisacodyl, which increase intestinal motility. Osmotic agents draw water into the colon without stimulating muscle contractions, making them useful for patients who need gentle, sustained relief and for those with hepatic encephalopathy, where reducing ammonia is essential.

Lactulose Hexal should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in its original packaging. Protect the product from moisture and direct sunlight to maintain stability and potency throughout its shelf life.

Lactulose Hexal is taken orally, usually as a liquid solution. It is mixed with water or another suitable beverage and consumed according to the prescriber’s instructions, typically once or twice daily, with the dose adjusted based on clinical response.

The most serious risks include severe dehydration, electrolyte disturbances such as hyponatremia or hypokalemia, and rare allergic reactions that may present as rash, itching or swelling. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience persistent diarrhea, dizziness, or signs of an allergic response.

Lactulose Hexal should be avoided in individuals with known hypersensitivity to lactulose, in patients with intestinal obstruction or severe gastrointestinal blockage, and in those for whom the osmotic effect could exacerbate existing electrolyte imbalances without appropriate monitoring.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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