Duphalac (Lactulose) – Quick Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Buying Tips
If you’ve been told to take Duphalac, you’re probably dealing with constipation or a liver condition called hepatic encephalopathy. Duphalac is just a brand name for lactulose, a sugar‑derived medicine that pulls water into the colon to soften stools and helps remove toxic ammonia from the blood. Below we break down the basics you need to know, step by step.
How Duphalac Works and When It’s Used
Duphalac is a synthetic sugar that isn’t absorbed in the small intestine. When it reaches the colon, gut bacteria break it down into acids that trap water. The extra fluid softens stool and makes it easier to pass. That’s why doctors prescribe it for chronic constipation, especially when other laxatives haven’t helped.
For people with liver disease, lactulose does something extra: it lowers ammonia levels. The same acids created by gut bacteria turn ammonia into a form the body can’t absorb, so it gets expelled in the stool. This can improve mental clarity and reduce the risk of hepatic encephalopathy flare‑ups.
Dosage, Side Effects, and Safe Buying
Typical adult doses start at 15‑30 ml (about 1‑2 tablespoons) once a day, taken with water or juice. Your doctor may increase the amount until you have two soft bowel movements a day. Kids get a lower dose based on weight, so always follow the pediatric instructions.
Common side effects are mild and include:
- Gas or bloating
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea if the dose is too high
If you notice severe diarrhea, vomiting, or electrolyte imbalance (feeling dizzy, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat), stop the medicine and call your doctor right away. Those signs mean the dose may be too strong or you need a different treatment.
When you’re ready to buy Duphalac, keep a few safety tips in mind:
- Only purchase from licensed pharmacies—online or brick‑and‑mortar. Look for a valid pharmacy license and a pharmacist’s contact info.
- Check the label for “lactulose” and the correct concentration (usually 10 g/100 ml).
- Never use a product that looks tampered with or is missing a batch number.
- If you’re in Australia or another country with strict regulations, you may need a prescription. Ask your doctor for a copy you can present to the pharmacy.
Storing Duphalac is simple: keep it at room temperature, away from direct heat. The syrup stays good for a year if the bottle stays sealed. Once opened, treat it like any other liquid medication—don’t use it after the expiration date.
In summary, Duphalac is a reliable option for constipation and liver‑related ammonia buildup. Start with a low dose, watch for side effects, and buy only from reputable sources. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure about the right amount or have any lingering questions. With the right approach, Duphalac can smooth things out and help you feel better fast.