Uses of Duphalac

This is an automatically translated article.

Duphalac medicine is a liquid form with the active ingredient lactulose used mainly in the treatment of constipation by increasing the volume of the substance in the colonic lumen. The drug is also used to prevent and treat hepatic encephalopathy in adults.

1. Uses of duphalac


Duphalac comes in the form of an inner sachet containing a viscous, clear liquid, a colorless to yellow-brown solution and is administered orally. The active ingredient of duphalac is lactulose and this solution is almost devoid of any other excipients. Uses of this drug include:
1.1. Treatment of constipation When you take this medicine, because there is no enzyme in the upper digestive tract, lactulose will be converted to the colon intact. In the colon, lactulose is broken down by bacteria in the colon into many low-molecular-weight organic acids. These organic acids lower the pH in the colonic lumen and have an osmotic effect leading to an increase in the volume of the contents of the colon. When the colonic lumen volume increases and the pH decreases, it stimulates peristalsis of the colon and restores stool firmness. Thereby helping to regulate constipation and restore the physiological rhythm of the colon.
1.2. Treatment and prevention support in hepatic encephalopathy In hepatic encephalopathy, cases with neuropsychiatric signs due to liver failure to metabolize endogenous toxins, in which increased NH3 is thought to be a major cause. . This drug inhibits proteolytic bacteria by increasing acidophilic bacteria and by stimulating the bacteria to use ammonia to synthesize bacterial proteins. From there, both reduce the source of NH3 (ammonia) and stimulate bacteria to use NH3.
1.3. Gastrointestinal Support Lactulose is considered a pro-biotic that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. From there, it leads to a favorable balance for the intestinal microflora, limiting diseases related to digestive disorders.

Thuốc duphalac là một dạng dịch có thành phần hoạt chất là lactulose
Thuốc duphalac là một dạng dịch có thành phần hoạt chất là lactulose

2. Indications and contraindications of the drug duphalac


Duphalac package is indicated for use in the following cases:
Treatment of constipation to help regulate physiological peristalsis of the colon. Post-operative anal, rectal and hemorrhoid treatment: In this case, softer stools are beneficial for the patient, reducing the risk of bleeding. Treatment of hepatic encephalopathy: Treatment and prevention of the risk of hepatic coma or hepatic pre-coma. Some contraindications should not be used for patients include:
Have a hypersensitivity reaction to lactose or to any other ingredient of the drug. When there is a disorder of blood glucose metabolism. In case of gastrointestinal obstruction, gastrointestinal perforation or at risk of gastrointestinal perforation. Precautions for use: In cases of unexplained abdominal pain, which does not improve after a few days of treatment, patients with a history of lactose intolerance should use Duphalac oral solution with caution.

3. How to use and dose duphalac


3.1 How to use duphalac medicine can be used directly or diluted drug solution. If diluted, the drug can be mixed with water or juice. When treatment for the best effect, drink plenty of water, from 1.5 to 2 liters of water, equivalent to about 6-8 glasses throughout the day. After making the solution, it should be taken immediately and do not hold the solution in the mouth because the sugar content of the medicine can lead to tooth decay, especially if used for a long time. In the case of a single daily dose, it should be taken at the same time of day. It may take about 2 to 3 days for the drug to take effect, so don't worry if you don't see the effect right away. 3.2 Dosage Used to treat constipation
Adults and adolescents: 15 to 45ml or 1 to 3 sachets daily. After that, it can be adjusted to 15-30ml or 1-2 packs per day. Children 7-14 years old: The starting dose is 15ml or duphalac sachet for 1 sachet per day. After that, it can be adjusted to 10 to 15ml or 1 pack per day. Children 1 - 6 years old: The usual dose is 5-10ml/day. For children under 1 year old: usually use about 5ml/day. The cases of elderly patients or patients with liver failure, kidney failure do not have special attention. Hepatic encephalopathy for adults only: The usual starting dose is 3 to 4 times/day, equivalent to 30-45ml or 2-3 sachets per day.

Khi dùng thuốc duphalac có thể gây ra một số tác dụng phụ như rối loạn tiêu hoá
Khi dùng thuốc duphalac có thể gây ra một số tác dụng phụ như rối loạn tiêu hoá

4. Notes when using duphalac drug


When taking the drug can cause some side effects such as digestive disorders (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea), may cause electrolyte imbalance. When seeing side effects, the drug should be stopped and monitored. Children only take medicine when absolutely necessary and need to monitor its use. For pregnant and lactating women, no adverse effects on the fetus or nursing infant have been reported. So it can be used, but to be safe, you should always consult your doctor before use. Be careful with patients with diabetes, because high doses can cause hyperglycemia. Hopefully, through the article, you know the use of duphalac and the notes when using it. If you have any questions while using it, you should consult your pharmacist or doctor directly.

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