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Lactulose
What is lactulose?
Lactulose (brand names Cephulac®, Kristalose®, Generlac®, Constulose®, Enulose®) is a disaccharide (sugar) laxative and ammonia reducer. It is used off label (extra label) in cats, dogs, birds, and reptiles to reduce blood ammonia levels during liver dysfunction, to soften the stool, and to treat constipation.
Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is lactulose given?
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days, and improvements in clinical signs should follow.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Lactulose may cause the following side effects, which usually resolve over time:
At higher doses, side effects may include:
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours.
Lactulose should NOT BE USED in pets that:
Lactulose should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets that:
The following medications should be used with caution when given with lactulose:
It is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Sep 27, 2024.
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