Lactulose

(lak-tyoo-lose)

Other names for this medication: Cephulac, Constulose, Enulose, Generlac, Kristalose

This medication is used to treat constipation or to reduce ammonia levels.

•Lactulose may be mixed in food or other liquids to make it easier to give, but make sure your animal takes the entire dose.

•Make sure your animal has access to plenty of fresh drinking water to prevent dehydration.

•Common side effects include excess gas, abdominal pain, and abdominal bloating or cramping. These effects usually get better with time.

•Contact your veterinarian if your animal has diarrhea or has fewer than 2 soft stools per day.

Description

•Ammonia reducer and laxative

•Available as oral solutions and crystals

Uses

This medication is not FDA approved specifically for animals, but it is approved for use in humans. At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used extra-label for:

•Decreasing ammonia levels in dogs, cats, and other species

•Treatment of constipation in dogs and cats

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use in animals:

•That are allergic to it

•With an intestinal blockage

Use with caution in animals:

•With diabetes. This medication may change insulin requirements.

•With fluid or electrolyte abnormalities

•That are not well hydrated or that are prone to dehydration

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food. Lactulose can be mixed in other liquids or food, but make sure your animal eats the entire dose.

•Make sure your animal has access to plenty of fresh drinking water to prevent dehydration.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – these side effects usually get better with time. Contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Excess gas

•Abdominal pain

•Abdominal bloating or cramping

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Diarrhea. This may mean that the dose needs to be adjusted.

•Dry nose or gums, loss of appetite, reduced energy levels, sunken eyes, or panting. These may be signs of dehydration.

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should start feeling better within 1 to 2 days.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve, or if your animal has fewer than 2 soft stools per day.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store at room temperature.

•Protect from light.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.