Lacasil 120Ml Syrup 10G/15Ml

Requires Prescription (YES/NO)

No

Generics

Lactitol Monohydrate

Used For

Constipation

How it works

Lactitol is a disaccharide derivative consisting of galactose and sorbitol which is only minimally absorbed and is not hydrolyzed by the disaccharides of the gastrointestinal tract and thus reaches the colon unchanged. In the colon it is broken down to short chain organic acids, mainly acetic, propionic and butyric acid, by the intestinal flora, in particular by the bacteroides and lactobacilli, thus acidifying the contents of the colon. The effect of this acidification reduces the absorption of ammonia. The transformation of lactitol into low molecular weight organic acids results in an increase in osmotic pressure in the colon, thereby causing an increase in the stool water content and stool volume which explains the laxative effect.

Dosage

Lactitol Monohydrate

Side Effects

At the beginning of treatment, lactitol can cause abdominal discomfort, such as flatulence and, although rarely, abdominal pain or sometimes a bloating sensation. Such effects tend to diminish or disappear after a few days of treatment with lactitol. Due to inter-individual differences, some patients, even when taking the recommended dose, may suffer from diarrhoea. A reduction in dosage will solve this problem.

Drug Interactions

Laxatives should not be taken at the same time as other medications, after taking a medication, wait at least 2 hours before taking a laxative. Lactitol can increase the potassium losses caused by other medicines (e.g., thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, carbenoxolone, amphotericin B). Lactitol can increase digitalis toxicity. Concomitant administration of lactitol with neomycin can cause an increase in neomycin’s activity. If large spectrum antibacterial agents and antacids are administered along with lactitol, it can cause a reduction in acidification effect of lactitol on intestinal microflora and consequently limiting therapeutic efficacy.

Indication

Symptomatic treatment of constipation ; Hepatic encephalopathy.

When not to Use

Hypersensitivity to the active substance ; Inflammatory colon disease (Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) ; Occlusive or subocclusive syndrome ; Digestive perforation or suspicion of perforation ; Abdominal pain syndromes of undetermined cause.

Precaution

Prolonged use in the treatment of constipation is not recommended.

Warning 1

In infants and young children, the use of lactitol is possible on medical recommendation.

Warning 2

The use of lactitol is not recommended in patients with fructose or galactose intolerance, galactosemia or glucose-galactose malabsorption syndrome or lactase deficiency.

Warning 3

Diarrhoea which may be induced by lactitol can lead to disturbances of the hydro-electrolyte balance: this medicinal product should therefore be used with caution in patients prone to presenting hydro-electrolyte disturbances.

Pregnancy category

Always consult your physician before using any medicine.

Storage (YES/NO)

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from direct light and heat.