DRUG, DOSAG E& ROUTE

Lactulos e 30 cc syrup OD HS 8pm Laxative, Ammoni a reductio n drug

MECHANI SM OF ACTION
The drug passes unchanged into the colon where bacteria break it down to organic acids that increase the osmotic pressure in the colon and slightly acidify the colonic contents, resulting in an increase in stool water content, stool softening, laxative action. This also results in migration of blood ammonia into the

INDICATIO NS
Treatment of constipation. Prevention and treatment of portalsystemic encephalopat hy.

CONTRAINDICATION S
Contraindicated with allergy to lactulose, lowgalactose diet. Use cautiously with diabetes, pregnancy, and lactation.

SIDE EFFECTS
Abdominal fullness, flatulence, belching.

ADVERSE REACTIONS
GI Transient flatulence, distention, intestinal cramps, belching, diarrhea, nausea. Other Acid-base imbalances

DRUG INTERACTI ONS

DRUGDRUG Do not administer other laxatives with lactulose. DRUGFOOD May be taken with fruit juice or milk to increase palatability.

NURSING RESPONSIBIL ITIES

History Allergy to lactulose, lowgalactose diet. diabetes, pregnancy, and lactation. Physical Abdominal examination, bowel sounds, serum electrolytes, serum ammonia levels. Do not freeze laxative form. Ask patient to report diarrhea, severe belching, abdominal fullness.

REMARKS

colon contents with subsequent trapping and expulsion of feces.