Lactulose: what is it? Instructions for use and reviews of the drug

This drug belongs to the group of osmotic laxatives used in gastroenterology.

The main active ingredient is lactulose, which has the ability to be broken down in the intestines with the help of intestinal bacteria. As a result of such processes, it turns into low molecular weight organic acids.

The latter cause a decrease in acidity in the colon, increasing the volume of its contents and providing an osmotic effect. Due to the normalization of the consistency of stool, colon peristalsis is stimulated, constipation is corrected, and the physiological digestive rhythm and bowel movement rhythm are restored.

Lactulose also acts as a prebiotic, increasing the number of beneficial gut bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. This also inhibits the growth of bacteria that may be pathogenic, in particular clostridia or E. coli. Thus, the balance of intestinal microflora is normalized.

Directions for use and doses

The drug Lactulose can be taken either diluted or undiluted, in 1 or 2 doses per day. A single dose of lactulose is swallowed immediately without lingering in the mouth.

The dose and regimen of the drug should be selected according to the needs of the patient.

If the patient is prescribed the drug once a day, the dose should always be taken at the same time of day, for example, during breakfast. During laxative therapy, it is recommended to drink a sufficient amount of fluid (1.5-2 liters per day, which corresponds to 8-10 glasses).

Recommended dosages:

- adults and children over 14 years of age - initial dose - from 15 to 45 ml, maintenance dose (2-3 days after the onset of clinical effect) - from 15 to 30 ml;

- children from 14 to 7 years old - initial dose - 15 ml, maintenance dose - from 10 to 15 ml;

- children from 1 to 6 years old - initial dose - from 5 to 10 ml, maintenance dose - 5-100 ml;

- children from birth to 1 year of age - dosage of 5 ml of lactulose.

For hepatic coma or precoma, the initial dosage can reach 30 ml.

Elderly patients, as well as patients suffering from renal or hepatic insufficiency, do not require dosage adjustment.

Effect of Lactulose on intestinal function

The intestine is a unique part of the human body in its own way. In essence, it is a continuously functioning conveyor belt for processing nutrients. This grand chemical plant has extensive production facilities. The length of the entire intestine exceeds ten meters. The intestine consists of two main parts: the thin and thick sections.


The intestine consists of small and thick sections

The small intestine is specialized in breaking down nutrients and absorbing the end result of many chemical transformations into the blood. This task is made possible thanks to the large number of villi lining the intestines. They contain small, easily permeable vessels, through the walls of which simple sugars, fats and proteins penetrate into the general bloodstream.

The large intestine has an equally complex task. Its task is to extract everything useful from leftover food, including some vitamins and water. This is largely facilitated by intestinal microflora. Not all bacteria cause disease or harm the body. A whole group of microbes inhabits the intestines and does extremely useful things. Microflora protects the intestines from the penetration of pathogenic microbes, and also constantly keeps the immune system in good shape. Bacteria also play an important role in the digestion of food. In addition, microbes produce vitamins, which the body then uses in the process of hematopoiesis.


Normal intestinal microflora plays an important role in intestinal function

Lactulose is not processed by the intestines and is not absorbed into the blood. Reaching the large intestine, the drug binds water and causes softening of the stool. Taking Lactulose facilitates daily bowel movements from waste products of the body. The laxative effect of the drug is mild, which is especially important for newborns and infants. Lactulose is extremely beneficial for the daily activity of intestinal microbes. The drug has a prebiotic effect. Microbes use Lactulose as a home and food source. Thanks to this chemical, there are more friendly microbes in the intestines, and food is completely digested.


Prebiotics support the functioning of normal intestinal microflora

In addition, Lactulose not only promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, but also suppresses the activity of pathogenic microbes. The latter decompose proteins with the formation of large amounts of gas, causing flatulence. Lactulose can relieve a person from such unpleasant symptoms. In addition, the drug helps remove various toxins from the intestines, which become especially abundant when the liver functions abnormally.

Food for beneficial gut bacteria - video

Side effects

Therapy with this drug may cause adverse reactions, especially at the beginning of treatment. Among them were observed:

- flatulence;

- abdominal pain, diarrhea (if the recommended dosage is exceeded).

When using large therapeutic dosages used for a long time, electrolyte imbalance may occur (due to prolonged significant dilution of stool, diarrhea). Most often, this effect is observed in patients suffering from liver failure and encephalopathy, which should be taken into account during the treatment process.

If any unusual side effects occur, you should consult your doctor to adjust your course of treatment.

Lactulose benefits and harms

The drug is available in the form of syrup for oral administration.

Description and composition

The medicine is produced in the form of a transparent viscous liquid, which can be colorless or yellow with a brownish tint. The drug contains lactulose as an active ingredient. In addition, the medication contains citric acid and water for injection as auxiliary ingredients.

Pharmacological group

Lactulose is a laxative that has an osmotic effect. During therapy, intestinal motility is stimulated, and the absorption of phosphates and calcium improves. The drug accelerates the excretion of ammonium ions.

Lactulose, under the influence of intestinal microflora, is broken down into low-molecular organic acids, as a result of which the pH decreases and the osmotic pressure increases, which leads to an increase in the volume of feces. All this leads to stimulation of intestinal motility and a change in stool consistency. With the help of the drug it is possible to restore the physiological rhythm of colon emptying.

In hepatic encephalopathy, precoma and coma, the effect of the drug is associated with the suppression of proteolytic bacteria and an increase in the number of acidophilic bacteria, for example, lactobacilli.

Due to the intake of the drug, the contents of the intestine are acidified, and ammonia turns into an ionic form, the amount of nitrogen-containing toxic substances decreases, this is due to the stimulation of bacteria that utilize ammonia for bacterial protein synthesis.

Lactulose is a prebiotic substance. It promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, and they, in turn, suppress the proliferation of potentially pathogenic bacteria: E. coli and clostridia.

The drug inhibits the growth and reproduction of Shigella and Salmonella, does not interfere with the absorption of vitamins, and is not addictive.

The therapeutic effect of the drug is observed 24-48 hours after taking it (the delay in the laxative effect of the drug is associated with its passage through the digestive tract).

The absorption of the drug is low, up to 3% of the dose taken is excreted by the kidneys. The active component reaches the colon, where it is broken down by microflora. The drug taken in a dosage of 40-75 ml is completely metabolized; in higher doses the drug is partially excreted unchanged in the bile.

for adults

The drug is prescribed:

  • for constipation, in order to regulate the physiological rhythm of colon emptying;
  • to soften stool for medical purposes in case of hemorrhoids, during the postoperative period of surgical interventions on the large intestine or in the anal area;
  • for hepatic encephalopathy for the treatment and prevention of hepatic coma and precoma.

for children

According to indications, the drug can be used in children from the first days of life. Treatment in patients under 18 years of age should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor and in exceptional cases.

for pregnant women and during lactation

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, Lactulose syrup can be used according to indications.

Contraindications

The drug is contraindicated if the patient has any of the following pathologies:

  • individual intolerance to the composition of the medication:
  • galactosemia;
  • intestinal obstruction;
  • rectal bleeding;
  • intolerance to galactose, fruit sugar, lactase deficiency, impaired absorption of disaccharides;
  • colostomy and ileostomy.

Lactulose is contraindicated in cases of suspected appendicitis and should be prescribed with caution to patients with diabetes.

Side effects

Adverse reactions that occur during therapy are usually mild and reversible, and appear when dosages are exceeded.

At the beginning of therapy, bloating may be observed, which usually disappears after 1-2 days. Due to the use of medication for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy in high dosages for a long time, as a result of loose stools, an electrolyte imbalance may develop, which is manifested by the following symptoms:

  • convulsions;
  • bloating;
  • nausea;
  • headache;
  • vertigo;
  • heart rhythm disturbance;
  • muscle pain;
  • excessive fatigue;
  • weakness.

Interaction with other drugs

When using Lactulose syrup in therapeutic dosages in combination with other medications, no drug interactions were observed, but despite this, they do not need to be taken at the same time (the minimum interval between doses should be 2 hours).

Antibacterial and antacid agents reduce the effect of the laxative drug. Lactulose alters the pH-dependent release of enteric drugs.

special instructions

If a laxative effect is not observed within 2 days of therapy or if constipation returns after taking the medication, you should consult your doctor.

Lactulose should be prescribed with caution to patients with galactose intolerance.

During therapy, it should be taken into account that the medication may contain small amounts of bound sugars, for example, lactose, galactose, epilactose.

For the treatment of hepatic coma and precoma, as a rule, the drug is used in higher dosages, which should be taken into account in patients suffering from diabetes.

Source: https://yazdorov.win/zapor/laktuloza-polza-i-vred.html

Diseases for which Lactulose is prescribed

Lactulose is prescribed by specialists in the following cases:

  • to relieve constipation. A similar problem may be associated with diseases of the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, and pancreas. In addition, constipation often occurs in children of different ages due to imperfect food digestion processes. Stool retention is an almost integral part of taking antibiotics. Lactulose is effective for relieving constipation;
  • for some diseases. Varicose veins of the rectum - hemorrhoids - are significantly aggravated by constipation. Ruptures of altered blood vessels and bleeding are serious complications of this disease. In addition, it is extremely necessary to monitor stool after operations on the intestines and other abdominal organs;
  • for liver diseases. This organ was created by nature with great tensile strength. However, viruses, alcohol and other harmful substances destroy normal liver tissue. The result is extensive scarring that forms inside the organ (liver cirrhosis). Lactulose helps remove toxins from the body that the liver is unable to neutralize.


    A liver affected by cirrhosis is unable to detoxify toxins.

Dr. Komarovsky on the role of beneficial bacteria - video

Drug price

The price of Lactulose and its analogues ranges from 200 to 480 rubles.

Do you know what lactulose is and why microflora “loves” it? Let's figure out why lactulose is contained in Prebiosweet and how it will help you be slimmer and more active.

In the 30s last century, in the process of searching for a remedy for the treatment of digestive diseases, scientists discovered a substance that received the name “bifidus factor” for its bifidogenic properties. This is the name given to lactulose, a prebiotic that stimulates the growth and development of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

The microflora of the large intestine is diverse, but it is bifidobacteria and lactobacilli that produce enzymes that activate the body's protective functions. The enzymatic activity of microflora is comparable to the work of the liver, therefore the activity of intestinal bacteria is no less important for the body than the functions of other vital organs.

Lactulose has the highest level of prebioticity among bifidogenic substances and has a pronounced positive effect on the state of microflora.


Lactulose is obtained from milk. But, unlike the milk sugar lactose, which is broken down in the stomach and processed by the body into energy, lactulose is fermented not in the stomach, but in the intestines. Simply put, lactulose is food for the good bacteria in your colon. Thanks to good nutrition, the quality and quantity of lacto- and bifidobacteria increases, which is very important for our body.

Healthy microflora is:

  • normal digestion;
  • proper bowel function;
  • synthesis of vitamins by the body;
  • effective absorption of calcium, magnesium and other minerals by the body.

special instructions

If a laxative effect is not observed within 2 days of therapy or if constipation returns after taking the medication, you should consult your doctor.

Lactulose should be prescribed with caution to patients with galactose intolerance.

During therapy, it should be taken into account that the medication may contain small amounts of bound sugars, for example, lactose, galactose, epilactose.

For the treatment of hepatic coma and precoma, as a rule, the drug is used in higher dosages, which should be taken into account in patients suffering from diabetes.

During therapy, a disorder of the voiding reflex may occur.

During long-term treatment (more than six months), it is necessary to regularly monitor the content of potassium, chlorine and carbon dioxide in the blood plasma.

In case of gastrocardial syndrome, the dose of medication should be increased gradually to avoid increased gas formation and bloating.

The drug does not affect the speed of psychomotor reactions and the ability to drive a car.

The drug Lactulose

Lactulose


a laxative drug
obtained as a result of deep processing of milk. The drug helps to increase the number of lactobacilli in the large intestine, soften stool and increase intestinal motility.

In addition to the laxative effect, it has the property of inhibiting the growth of salmonella (causative agents of intestinal infection - salmonellosis), as well as stimulating liver function. It is practically not absorbed from the intestines into the blood. It is a white crystalline substance without a distinct odor.

Lactulose is recognized as a safe laxative, so it is allowed to be used by children (including newborns), adults, the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Indications for use

Medicine "Lactulose": what is it? This medicine is intended to normalize the functioning of the stomach and intestines. Indications for use will be the following situations:

  • dysbacteriosis of various etiologies;
  • constipation, including chronic;
  • condition after surgical manipulations in the intestinal area;
  • hemorrhoids and anal fissures (in complex therapy);
  • hepatic coma and encephalopathy.

The medicine can be used in conjunction with other medications (antibiotics, sorbents, immunomodulators, anticoagulants, etc.). Often the drug is prescribed simultaneously with a complex of beneficial bacteria.

Features of taking Lactulose

Lactulose is prescribed by specialists for the treatment of adults and children of all ages. The dose and duration of therapy are selected by the attending physician. The syrup is taken orally, during or immediately after meals. It is convenient to dose the drug using the measuring cup included in the kit. If the doctor has prescribed a single dose of medication, Lactulose must be consumed at one time immediately after the first meal. You can feel the effect of the drug after two days, which is due to the movement of the drug through the intestines. Lactulose contains several types of sugars, so this circumstance must be taken into account by patients with diabetes mellitus when calculating the dose of insulin administered. The medicine does not affect the ability to drive a car and does not cause drowsiness.

Instructions for use of lactulose syrup

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytaboutru

When taking the medication in high dosages, abdominal pain and loose stools may occur. In this case, it is necessary to reduce the dose of the drug or interrupt therapy completely.

Due to the large loss of fluid due to loose stools and vomiting, correction of water-salt imbalance may be necessary.

Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypokalemia, hypernatremia.

Treatment: symptomatic.

The dosage regimen is selected individually, depending on age and indications. Lactulose is best taken with meals, in the morning.

Standard dosages according to instructions:

  • For constipation - 15-45 ml for 3 days. Then 15 - 25 ml per day.
  • For hepatic encephalopathy - 30-50 ml, 3 times a day. The maximum daily dosage is 190 ml. For prevention, take 40 ml 3 times a day.
  • For acute intestinal infection caused by salmonella - 15 ml 3 times a day. Duration of treatment is 10 – 12 days. You need to take 2-3 courses with a break of a week. During the third course, take 30 ml 3 times a day.

To prevent the development of hepatic coma in patients with severe liver damage, the drug is prescribed 25 ml 3 times a day. If ineffective, it is advisable to use a combination of lactulose and Neomycin.

For salmonellosis - 15 ml 3 times a day for 10-12 days, after a 7-day break, the course of treatment is repeated. If necessary, a 3rd course of treatment can be carried out at a dosage of 30 ml 3 times a day.

For children, the syrup can be diluted with water or juice.

Lactulose dosages for children:

  • from 7 to 14 years - first 15 ml of syrup, then 10 ml per day;
  • up to 6 years - 5 - 10 ml per day;
  • from six months to 1 year - 5 ml per day.

Use with caution in patients with gastrocardial syndrome. In such cases, treatment should begin with low doses and increase them gradually to avoid the development of flatulence.

Should not be used for abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting without verification of the diagnosis.

Side effects

The instructions warn about the possibility of developing the following side effects when prescribing Lactulose:

  • in some cases, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia (lack of appetite) are observed.

When you first take lactulose in therapeutic doses, you may experience abdominal pain and flatulence (accumulation of gases in the intestines). These phenomena usually disappear within 48 hours after the first dose.

Contraindications

Lactulose is contraindicated in the following cases:

  • rectal bleeding;
  • hereditary diseases: lactase deficiency, lactose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, galactosemia;
  • colostomy or ileostomy;
  • intestinal obstruction;
  • suspicion of appendicitis;
  • hypersensitivity to lactulose.

Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus and gastrocardial syndrome.

Drug interactions

When used simultaneously with broad-spectrum antibiotics, the therapeutic effectiveness of lactulose may be reduced.

When used concomitantly, lactulose may interfere with the release of active substances from enteric drugs with a pH-dependent release due to the fact that it lowers the pH of the intestinal contents.

Overdose

In case of overdose, diarrhea (diarrhea) may occur, which requires complete discontinuation of the drug. Diarrhea can cause significant fluid loss, so correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalances may be required.

Typically, a therapist or gastroenterologist prescribes a dose of syrup taking into account the disease, condition and age of the patient. If there are no special purposes, the application regimen is used according to medical instructions.

Contraindications

The dosage of the drug is selected individually, after consultation with a doctor.

It is best to take the medicine during meals, in the morning.

For constipation, as a rule, 15-45 ml are prescribed for 3 days. Then the patient is transferred to 15-25 ml per day.

For hepatic encephalopathy, 30-50 ml is prescribed, 3 times a day. The maximum daily dosage is 190 ml. For prevention, take 40 ml 3 times a day. Neomycin is also often used additionally.

For acute intestinal infection caused by salmonella, 15 ml is prescribed, 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is 10-12 days. You need to take 2-3 courses with a break of a week. During the third course, take 30 ml, 3 times a day.

Instructions for Lactulose syrup for children

The syrup can be diluted with water or juice.

For children from 7 to 14 years old, 15 ml of syrup is first prescribed, then 10 ml per day.

At the age of 6 years, take 5-10 ml of the product.

Syrup for newborns (from six months to 1 year) is recommended to be prescribed in a dosage of 5 ml per day.

In case of overdose, diarrhea occurs. Which goes away on its own after some time. There may also be increased side effects.

How does lactulose affect the body?


The properties of lactulose are due to its ability to heal the intestinal microflora. To combat the destructive effects of negative factors, such as poor nutrition, stress and unfavorable ecology, it is important that the intestines properly perform their functions and help the body remove waste and harmful substances. Lactulose helps to cope with this task.

Large dosages of lactulose syrup are used as a mild laxative. During the diet, it helps fight constipation, which can occur due to a reduction in the amount of food consumed and dietary fiber. Lactulose can be used by people of any age, including pregnant women and infants.

In small dosages, lactulose is added to products to give them prebiotic properties. They produce children's dairy products, dietary cereals, bran, and muesli with lactulose. Lactulose in preventive dosage is contained in Prebiosweet sugar substitutes. They help control the amount of sugar and simple carbohydrates in the diet and promote proper digestion.

Sources:

Felitsata Holding LLC, 115280, Russia, Moscow, Velozavodskaya street, 4, office 110.

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MILK SUGAR DERIVATIVES

Lactulose (production)

Special studies have established that the disaccharide lactulose (fructose-galactoside) is an active bifidogenic factor in human milk. To optimize the formulation of milk-based baby food products, lactulose must be added to cow's milk. In addition, lactulose is widely used in many countries around the world as a preventive and therapeutic agent, especially in the case of dysbiotic phenomena. Lactulose can be used in food products as a highly soluble sweetener, in alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to minimize their toxic effects, as well as feed additives and in milk replacer formulations to prevent dysbiosis in young farm animals.

Rice. 50. Scheme for isomerization of lactose into lactulose

Lactulose can be obtained from lactose by rearranging α-glucose into fructose (Fig. 50). The mechanism of rearrangement is interpreted in different ways. In a slightly alkaline environment, glucose can be transformed into fructose by the LA-transformation mechanism through the enol form, as well as by Amadori rearrangement with the formation of the intermediate product lactosylamine. The synthesis of lactulose in lactose solutions by isomerases of microbial origin is known.

In our country and abroad, developments have been made to obtain lactulose in liquid (syrups) and dry form based on lactose.

The technological process for the production of lactulose syrups according to S. A. Ryabtseva (SevKavSTU) includes the following operations: acceptance and preparation of milk sugar, reagents and auxiliary materials; dissolving milk sugar; refining and filtration of the solution; isomerization of lactose into lactulose; demineralization of the solution; single or double thickening of the solution, crystallization and separation of lactose crystals; heat treatment; filling, packaging and storage. A diagram of the lactulose syrup production line is shown in Figure 51.

Rice. 51. Scheme of the technological line for the production of lactulose syrups: 1 - reactor; 2—separator; 3—filter press; 4—pump; 5 - intermediate container; 6—electrodialysis unit; 7—ion exchange unit; 8—vacuum evaporation unit; 9 — crystallizer-cooler; 10 - centrifuge; 11 - hopper for lactose crystals Symbols: (1) - raw sugar; 2- water; (3) - lactose solution; (4)—protein mass; (5) - reagents; (6)—adsorbents; (7)—molasses; (8)—refined sugar; (9)—lactolactulose solution; (10) — demineralized solution; (11)—lactolactulose syrup; (12)—lactose crystals; (13) - lactulose syrup

Milk sugar (refined, food grade and raw) of at least the highest grade is used as the starting material for the production of lactulose. Dissolve sugar in water heated to 85...90 °C with constant stirring. Mass fraction of dry substances

20…25%, which corresponds to a density of 1055 ±5 kg/m3 at 70 °C. The milk sugar solution is kept at a temperature of 90 °C for 10...15 minutes. When using raw milk sugar, centrifugal purification of the solution is recommended to remove suspended sediment and mechanical impurities. Cleaning is carried out on a self-unloading separator of the OTS type with periodic unloading every 15...25 minutes. The resulting sediment is used for feed purposes. Dissolution of milk sugar is possible in pure condensate or an alkaline fraction of electroactivated water (ELA-water) - catholyte.

Isomerization of lactose into lactulose is carried out in an alkaline environment at pH 11... 12 by introducing 0.27 ± 0.02% sodium hydroxide in the form of a 40% solution for food syrups or 0.40 ± 0.05%

calcium hydroxide in the form of freshly prepared lime milk for feed additives. Optimal isomerization mode: temperature 85...95 °C, holding time 5...7 minutes with rapid (sharp) cooling to 15...25°C, which eliminates autocatalytic decomposition of carbohydrates and an increase in the color of the solution. If rapid cooling is not possible, the solution must be acidified to pH 7.0...8.0 with citric or lactic acid for food syrups, acid whey for feed additives. During the isomerization process, up to 30% of lactose is transformed into lactulose. The result is a lactolactulose solution containing about 7% lactulose and 15% unreacted lactose, as well as ballast substances - mineral salts (0.7%), nitrogenous compounds (0.3% nitrogen) and coloring compounds, mainly melanoidins.

Demineralization is carried out for food syrups at a temperature of 18...22 °C to a desalting level of 70...75% in electrodialysis units according to the production modes of demineralized whey. Deeper desalting, for example for baby food at a level of 90%, can be carried out by ion exchange treatment on KU-2-8 and EDE-10P resins, as in the production of milk sugar.

Refining is carried out at 20...30 °C by adding active carbon (1.5%), ground diatomite (0.15%) and sodium hydrosulfite (0.01%). The dose of reagents is calculated in relation to lactose. The solution is kept with stirring

10... 15 minutes and filtered through a “belting” cloth with a washed layer of ground diatomite. The lactolactulose filtrate is concentrated in a vacuum apparatus at a temperature of 55...65 °C to a mass fraction of dry substances of 55...60%, which corresponds to a density of 1245 ± 5 kg/m3. The condensed syrup is heated to 70 °C and sent for crystallization.

Lactose crystallization is carried out to increase the proportion of lactulose in the finished product according to the following regime: cooling with constant slow stirring of the mass at a speed of 2...3 °C per 1 hour to a temperature of 8...10 °C and then holding at this temperature for 10...12 h.

The released lactose crystals are separated by centrifugation in filter-type devices and washed with a small amount of cold water. The crystalline precipitate of milk sugar is used for dissolution in a closed cycle for the production of lactulose syrups.

If necessary (depending on consumer requirements for the quality of lactulose syrups), repeated demineralization (for baby food and pharmaceuticals), thickening (food products and drinks) with crystallization and separation of crystals is carried out. Repeated thickening is carried out to a mass fraction of dry substances of 65...70%, which corresponds to a density of 1280 ± 10 kg/m3. To intensify the crystallization process, a seed of fine-crystalline lactose is added in an amount of 0.3...0.5% of the syrup weight. The final cooling temperature is 5 °C, followed by holding for up to 10 hours, which prevents precipitation during storage of lactulose syrups.

Heat treatment of lactulose syrups is carried out at a temperature of 70...75 °C for 10...15 minutes to guarantee microbiological purity, safety and long-term storage.

The syrup is packed hot into consumer containers (flasks, jars, bottles).

The duration of storage of lactulose syrups is determined by the type of packaging: in an unsealed container at a temperature of 4...8 ° C, the composition and properties of the product do not change for 12 months, in a sealed container - up to 5 years. Lactulose syrup has the following composition and properties:

Lactulose syrups are used to produce medications, baby and dietary nutrition, food and beverages, and feed additives.

Received special con and Alcosoft. Isomerization of lactose into lactulose in the production of "Lactusan" is carried out in an aqueous solution of lactose, in the production of "Alcosoft" - directly in whey.

The technological process for the production of dry lactulose includes the following operations: acceptance of lactulose concentrate with determination of its quality indicators, preparation of the concentrate, heating of the solution, drying, cooling of dry lactulose, packaging of the product. After determining its quality, lactulose syrup is diluted with clean water to a mass fraction of dry substances of 20...45% and, if necessary, deoxidized. The solution is heated to 80...85 °C and fed into a spray dryer. Drying mode: air temperature at the inlet 100...150 °C, at the outlet 50...70 °C. Considering the high hygroscopicity of dry lactulose powders (the hygroscopicity index is 22.8%, and, for example, for dry skim milk - 10.5%), it is cooled with dried air and packaged in airtight and moisture-proof containers. Based on dry lactulose and lysozyme, the technology of the original drug “Lael” has been developed.

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Contraindications

– Hypersensitivity to the active substance.

  • Gastrointestinal obstruction.
  • Perforation of the digestive tract or risk of perforation of the digestive tract.
  • Galactose or fructose intolerance, lactase deficiency, glucose-galactose malabsorption syndrome.
  • Interaction with other drugs and other types of interactions.

    No interaction studies have been conducted.

    Lactulose may increase potassium loss induced by other drugs (eg thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids and amphotericin B). Potassium deficiency may enhance the effect of cardiac glycosides.

    Use of Lactulose during pregnancy and childhood

    Babies in their first year of life often suffer from constipation. The reasons usually lie in a lack of enzymes and beneficial bacteria in the intestines. During pregnancy, digestion suffers from the displacement of organs by the uterus with the growing fetus inside. The drug Lactulose is approved for use in children from the first days of life. In addition, the medicine is successfully used during pregnancy, since it does not affect the body of the mother and fetus. Lactulose is also prescribed to nursing mothers, since the active substance is not absorbed into the blood and does not penetrate into breast milk.

    pharmachologic effect

    The substance produces a laxative effect and improves the functioning of the digestive tract. It is used for constipation of varying levels of complexity. It has a mild stimulating effect on the intestines, which increases its peristalsis.

    Pharmacodynamics

    The action of the substance Lactulose is aimed at increasing beneficial lactic acids in the body, thereby increasing the level of intestinal functioning. The active component helps to liquefy and increase stool.

    The drug has a mild effect without disturbing the mucous membranes of the digestive organs. The action of Lactulose reduces the development of harmful microorganisms and blocks the fermentation process, this effect helps to improve the microflora in the digestive organs.

    Pharmacokinetics

    After using Lactulose, almost its entire volume remains in the digestive organs and does not spread throughout the body through the bloodstream.

    The drug begins its action in the colon, and part of the drug is excreted from the body unchanged.

    The use of a medicinal substance does not wash away beneficial compounds from the body, while blocking the growth and development of parasites.

    The effect of the substance begins 12–24 hours after application.

    Contraindications to the use of lactulose

    The use of lactulose is contraindicated in case of galactosemia, intestinal obstruction and allergy to milk sugar (any dairy products).

    In diabetes mellitus, the use of lactulose is justified only if there is a significant benefit and only under the supervision of a doctor.

    The use of lactulose in its pure form or as part of human-made products requires strict adherence to dosages.

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    general characteristics

    White powder, highly soluble in water, molecular weight - 322.3.

    Lactulose is a prebiotic consisting of fructose and galactose molecules. The monosaccharide reaches the large intestine unchanged, where it is broken down into lactic, acetic and butyric acids, providing a breeding ground for lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

    When lactose (disaccharide) is processed in the body, lactulose is formed

    If the body does not have enzymes that break down lactose, milk intolerance occurs. Lactulose is well tolerated by everyone and has no negative effects on the body.

    In medicine, lactulose occupies the niche of laxatives with a mild effect.

    Available in the form of tablets or syrup. Suitable for use by newborns, pregnant women and the elderly. It has the appearance of a white crystalline substance, soluble in water without a distinct odor, obtained through deep processing of milk.

    Composition and release form of the drug

    Lactulose (Latin name Lactulose) is available in the form of syrup for oral administration. The main component of the drug is lactulose, a sugar that is not digested in the intestines. To obtain a complete syrup, the manufacturer adds excipients to the recipe. Thanks to them, the medicine can be stored without changing its beneficial properties.


    Lactulose is available in syrup form

    Composition and release form of the drug Lactulose - table

    Active ingredient: Lactulose syrupAuxiliary components of Lactulose syrup
    Lactulose
    • lemon acid;
    • purified water.

    Lactulose

    Lactulose. What it is? The first thing that comes to mind when you hear this name is milk. So what does lactulose have to do with dairy products and does this connection exist at all? In fact, the product name does not deceive and directly points to the original source.

    Lactulose is a product of deep processing of milk. More precisely, the raw material for this substance is lactose (milk sugar).

    According to physical characteristics, lactulose is a white powder in crystals, without a pronounced odor, which easily dissolves in water.

    A person needs it as a component that activates the digestive tract. All the substances without which it is difficult for modern man to imagine life were once unknown to anyone. Lactulose entered our lives relatively recently - in 1929.

    More precisely, then it entered the lives of researchers who developed and described a new substance obtained after exposing milk to heat and alkali.

    How did it appear?

    Two decades later, scientists found a substance in human milk that caused bifidobacteria to grow at an incredible rate. It was lactulose.

    But the first use of the drug in medical practice dates back to 1951. Then the milk remedy was used as a medicine against enteritis. But all these years, lactulose lived without a name.

    Only in 1957 did the substance receive its official name.

    Properties of lactulose

    As a result of almost a century of research, scientists have discovered that lactulose has a range of beneficial properties for humans:

    1. Activates bifidobacteria.

    Japanese researchers have determined that 3 grams of lactulose consumed daily for 14 days can increase the number of bifidobacteria several times. During two weeks of the experiment, Eastern scientists recorded an increase from 8.3 percent (of the total number of bacteria) to 47.4%. Along with the growth of beneficial microflora, the number of harmful bacteria has decreased.

    1. Improves the absorption of minerals.

    Taking lactulose promotes more active calcium absorption. Scientists made these conclusions after observing rats with osteoporosis. By consuming lactulose, they recovered faster from bone fractures.

    1. Activates liver function.

    Improper functioning of the intestines is fraught with the accumulation of ammonia in the body, and it, in fact, “paralyzes” the liver, which loses its ability to eliminate toxins. Lactulose neutralizes part of the ammonia (from 25 to 50 percent) and makes the liver feel better. As a result, it again performs the functions of cleansing the body.

    1. Fights carcinogens and toxins.

    Experiments with animals have proven the antibacterial and immunological properties of lactulose.

    The substance helps eliminate carcinogens and toxic metabolites from the body, improves the general condition of the body in case of liver cirrhosis by strengthening the immune system.

    This effect is achieved due to the activation of bifidobacteria, which require lactulose for growth. There is speculation that this prebiotic may serve as an effective preventative against colon cancer.

    Lactulose has many properties that result in the prevention of constipation. By binding water, reducing intestinal acidity and stimulating peristalsis, lactulose plays the role of a gentle laxative (effective for 1-2 days). These abilities of the substance allowed pharmacists to actively use it in many drugs for constipation.

    1. Affects the formation of bile acids.

    In healthy people consuming lactulose, there is a decrease in the production of secondary bile acids in the intestines.

    Lactulose for children

    Pediatricians in Austria realized that lactulose could be beneficial for children back in the late 1940s. One of the doctors observed infants being bottle-fed.

    He noticed that in such babies, dysbacteriosis occurs several times more often than in children on mother's milk.

    After a series of experiments, it turned out that human milk contains lactulose, and this, in turn, provides healthy intestinal microflora.

    Chemists have learned to produce this substance from lactose. And pharmacists introduce it into syrups that improve the microflora of children's intestines. This syrup can be given to children of all ages. The instructions for use describe in detail the dosages for each age group.

    For adults, lactulose is available in the form of dietary supplements, laxative tablets, and other pharmaceutical forms. At the same time, the effect on the body is the same.

    Food sources

    The list of foods rich in lactulose does not only include dairy products. Although, of course, there are more substances in this category.

    So, to enrich the body with a useful prebiotic, it is important to pay attention to breast milk, natural yoghurts, cottage cheese, bananas and rye bran.

    Cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, corn, beans and even onions or garlic can be used as sources of this beneficial substance. Sweet lovers can replenish their prebiotic reserves from dried apricots and black currants.

    Lactulose can increase the concentration of beneficial bifidobacteria in the body by more than 10 times, and reduce the number of harmful microorganisms by almost a hundred times. But for this you need to consume foods or dietary supplements containing a prebiotic every day. As a result of the experiments, it was determined that 3-4 g of the substance is enough for adults to achieve the effect.

    People with:

    • chronic constipation;
    • disruptions in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
    • pathogenic intestinal microflora;
    • liver dysfunction;
    • high cholesterol;
    • improper metabolism.

    Diabetes, high acidity in the stomach and low acidity in the intestines are good reasons not to abuse fermented milk products and other foods containing lactulose in high concentrations.

    How does it affect other nutrients?

    Lactulose belongs to substances that combine optimally with most minerals. In particular, the absorption of calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium in combination with a prebiotic is faster and more efficient. This substance can also reduce cholesterol levels and optimize the production of bile acids in the body.

    Deficiency Symptoms

    You can understand that the body does not have enough lactulose by looking at several of the most common symptoms. The most common and most important symptom is regular constipation. It is enough to treat the body with a prebiotic for a few days and the problem will go away. Other symptoms of dysbiosis (which is most often a consequence of lactulose deficiency) may include:

    • nausea;
    • vomiting;
    • weight loss;
    • stomach ache.

    Well, in total, all these disorders lead to disruption of metabolic processes and improper functioning of the digestive organs.

    Symptoms of excess

    Although the consequences of excessive consumption of lactulose are not so sad for the body, they are also not pleasant. Excessive consumption of milk or dietary supplements enriched with prebiotics leads to chronic diarrhea, bloating and rapid weight gain. In addition, inflammation in the organs of the urinary system is possible.

    What determines the level of lactulose in the body?

    Lactulose is not a substance that the body can synthesize on its own. Therefore, the only source of prebiotics for humans is food and bioactive supplements.

    If we are not talking about the treatment of advanced chronic diseases, then to maintain a stable level of lactulose, a balanced, proper diet, with the consumption of foods rich in microelements, vitamins and other beneficial substances, is sufficient.

    In more complex cases, medications containing high concentrations of lactulose come to the rescue. But you shouldn't be afraid of these drugs. They cause virtually no side effects and are allowed even for infants.

    Lactulose for weight loss

    Perhaps half of overweight people dream of a miracle diet that will help them lose 5 or even 10 extra pounds in a week. Nutritionists, hearing this, say: “Nonsense! This cannot be! But advertising promises something else.

    Most drugs that quickly get rid of excess weight work on the principle of a laxative. For this reason, lactulose is sometimes also used inappropriately.

    By consuming drugs based on this substance, obese people want to achieve a laxative effect and then see weight loss.

    But a laxative, even the strongest one, has no effect on fat deposits. And false weight loss occurs only due to loss of moisture. Continuing this “weight loss” for several days, the only result that can be achieved for sure is dehydration and leaching of nutrients from the body. And even the beneficial properties of lactulose will not save the situation.

    But there are options when lactulose can actually be taken for weight loss. More precisely - as an auxiliary tool. When following a diet, especially if there are few foods rich in fiber in the diet, constipation often occurs.

    This is where lactulose comes to the rescue - it will help quickly remove waste products from the body, cleanse the intestines and take care of the correct microflora. As a result, this will affect your overall well-being, increase your tone and strengthen your immune system.

    This means you will have the strength to exercise, without which there will definitely be no effective weight loss.

    Use of lactulose

    Modern food and pharmaceutical industries actively use the beneficial properties of lactulose.

    In medicine, for example, this substance is used as a treatment for:

    • intestinal dysbiosis;
    • chronic constipation;
    • encephalopathy;
    • enteritis;
    • putrefactive dyspepsia syndrome;
    • hyperammonemia;
    • salmonellosis.

    On supermarket shelves you can increasingly see dairy products fortified with lactulose. In the CIS, this is still a new practice, but in Japan, for example, they have been consuming improved milk for more than 30 years. Typically, the prebiotic is added to milk, sour cream, kefir, fermented baked milk and other dairy products.

    Other uses of lactulose:

    • in cosmetology (component of anti-skin dysbiosis products);
    • as a feed additive.

    Humanity has been using the beneficial properties of lactulose for almost half a century. It has found its use in the food industry and in medicines to improve digestion. Dysbacteriosis, liver dysfunction, constipation or salmonellosis... Today it is difficult to imagine treating these disorders without lactulose.

    Sources

    1. Ivashchenko V.D. – Experimental substantiation of the use of lactulose for intestinal infections. – 2010
    2. Ryabtseva S. A. – Lactulose technology. – 2003, 232 p.

    Izvozchikova Nina Vladislavovna

    Specialty: infectious disease specialist, gastroenterologist, pulmonologist.

    Total experience: 35 years.

    Education: 1975-1982, 1st MMI, San-Gig, highest qualification, infectious disease doctor.

    Scientific degree: doctor of the highest category, candidate of medical sciences.

    Training:

    1. Infectious diseases.
    2. Parasitic diseases.
    3. Emergency conditions.
    4. HIV.

    Source: //FoodandHealth.ru/komponenty-pitaniya/laktuloza/

    Products rich in lactulose:

    Lactulose is a prebiotic necessary for the full functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Lactulose is a white, odorless powder, highly soluble in water. Lactulose was first obtained in 1929 by Hudson and Montgomery by heat treating lactose with an alkaline solution.

    And in 1948, an Austrian pediatrician, concerned about the frequent cases of dysbiosis in “artificial” infants, made a discovery. He discovered a substance in human milk that promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora. This substance turned out to be lactulose.

    The lactulose molecule contains galactose and fructose. Lactulose is obtained artificially from milk sugar. This is a rather labor-intensive process - deep processing of milk. Today, lactulose is quite often used for the production of dietary supplements, as well as in pharmacology as part of laxatives and agents that improve intestinal microflora.

    Daily requirement for lactulose

    Numerous experiments have established the following: the optimal intake of lactulose is 3-4 g daily. As a result, the number of unusually beneficial bifidobacteria in the intestines increases by 5 times, while the number of E. coli decreases by 100 times. Lactulose significantly improves intestinal microflora and increases the body's defenses.

    The need for lactulose increases:

    • for various intestinal disorders (for example, chronic constipation);
    • when the intestinal microflora is “contaminated”;
    • for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
    • to stimulate and improve the work and functions of the liver;
    • with high cholesterol levels;
    • with metabolic disorders.

    The need for lactulose decreases with:

    • increased acidity of gastric juice;
    • low intestinal pH level;
    • diabetes

    Lactulose digestibility

    The absorption of this substance is quite good. Lactulose is broken down by the action of enzymes to form simple organic acids: lactic, acetic, butyric and others.

    Perhaps the main advantage and main property of lactulose is the ability to suppress harmful bacteria. An undeniable property, confirmed by experts, is the ability of lactulose to rid the body of toxic substances and harmful enzymes, such as ammonia, skatole, nitroreductase. Often used as a laxative.

    Thanks to lactulose, calcium is better absorbed, which significantly increases bone strength.

    Reducing disorders and disorders of the intestines is one of the important conditions for human health. A sufficient content of lactulose in the human body contributes to the full functioning of the intestines by improving the microflora.

    Another useful property of lactulose is its anti-carcinogenic effect. Lactulose has proven itself well as a preventative against colon cancer. Lactulose is necessary to stimulate the growth of healthy microflora.

    Interaction with other elements

    Lactulose interacts in the body with microelements - calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron. Interacts with cholesterol and bile acids.

    At the same time, cholesterol levels in the blood are normalized, and the synthesis of bile acids is also optimized. In addition, the absorption of magnesium, zinc, calcium and iron improves.

    Signs of lack of lactulose in the body

    • sudden weight loss;
    • frequent constipation;
    • aching pain in the abdominal area;
    • colicky sharp pain in the navel area;
    • nausea;
    • vomit;
    • metabolic disease;
    • disruption of the digestive system.

    Signs of excess lactulose in the body

    • flatulence;
    • diarrhea;
    • sudden weight gain;
    • infectious diseases of the urinary system.

    Lactulose is not produced in our body and comes to us with food. To maintain normal levels of lactulose in the body, a complete, balanced diet and nutrition that includes foods containing it is sufficient.

    In addition, today there is a huge selection of medications containing lactulose. Most often, such drugs have a minimal number of contraindications and are approved for use from birth.

    Lactulose for beauty and health

    This substance is included in the list of food additives that increase human immunity and improve metabolic processes in the body. Lactulose promotes rapid absorption of calcium. As you know, calcium promotes proper and healthy growth of hair, nails, and teeth. Accordingly, consuming products containing lactulose has an excellent effect on appearance and internal sensations.

    When consuming at least 3 mg of lactulose per day, the gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, joints and skin are completely healed. All this allows you to look healthy and feel much better.

    Today, lactulose is also used in the cosmetics industry, which helps rejuvenate and restore the condition of the skin. The smallest newborns receive lactulose from their mother's milk, which guarantees proper growth and healthy functioning of the digestive organs of infants.

    Editor of the “Nutrients” section Lyudmila Malakhova, © Food+

    Source: //edaplus.info/food-components/lactulose.html

    Type of medication and possible analogues

    "Lactulose": what is it? This drug contains the active substance of the same name. In addition to it, there are other medications that contain the component. The most popular trade names of such products are “Dufalak”, “Poslabin”, “Livolyuk”, “Normese” and “Lactusan”.

    Most medications have additional components. The composition of the drug "Lactulose" is as follows: lactulose, purified water and citric acid. The medicine is also available in powder form for preparing a solution.

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