Lactulose; a Derivative of Lactose Used To Treat or Prevent Hepatic Encephalopathy and Constipation

 

Lactulose

Lactulose is a synthetic, non-absorbable sugar used in the treatment or prevention of hepatic encephalopathy (a nervous system disorder caused by severe liver disease) and constipation. It is broken down in the large intestine into mild acids that draw water into the colon, which helps soften the stools. Lactulose, also known as 1,4 beta galactoside-fructose, is made up of fructose and galactose. It is a colonic acidifier which works in the blood by reducing the amount of ammonia. In short, lactulose is a remedy made from man-made sugar.

It is also used to maintain insulin level and blood glucose level. Lactulose comes as a sweet syrup and is available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies. It is an oral solution for the treatment of constipation. Thus, there is an increasing demand for lactulose worldwide. This is attributed to modern lifestyle, improper eating habits among population, and consumption of processed foods and fast foods, whose adverse effect on health are apparent. Constipation is common among all ages and populations in the United States. But it is a common complaint and challenge for older adults.

Thus, with the increasing geriatric population, the demand for lactulose is also increasing with a rapid pace. For example, according to U.S. Census Bureau, the United States will experience considerable growth in its older population. The US population aged 65 and over is expected to reach 83.7 million by 2050. Lactulose, lactitol, and macrogol are the most commonly and safest compounds used in the elderly Lactulose is a prescription medicine used by mouth or rectally to treat or prevent constipation.

It is a colonic acidifier that works by reducing the amount of ammonia in the blood. Lactulose relieves constipation by drawing water into the bowel to soften the stool. The side effects are usually mild and short-lived. Lactulose takes at least 48 hours to work. Moreover, long-term use of lactulose is very safe.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Game Engines; Used To Enhance And Streamline The Creation Of Video Games

Fruit Picking Robots: The Future of Agriculture

Fluoropolymer Films Are High-Performance Polymer Films Composed Of Fluorine And Carbon Molecules