Indications

Constipation (Chronic Constipation): In every case of chronic constipation, initial treatment should consist of a diet rich in fiber (vegetables, salads, fruits etc.) a generous amount of liquids and much physical exercise. Regulose is only to be taken when these measures prove insufficient.

Intestinal flora disturbances:
  • In damaged to intestinal flora (e.g. following long-term antibiotic treatment)
  • Gall bladder diseases
  • Intestinal diseases (Colitis, Diverticulosis, Megacolon)
Increased blood ammonia levels (hyper ammoniemia in hepatopathy, portal-systemic encephalopathy)

Description

Regulose is a hyperosmolar laxative which is used as an effective treatment approach for constipation. It is a non-absorbable disaccharide which draws water into the bowel; causes distention through fluid accumulation, thus promotes soft stool and accelerates bowel motion.

Pharmacology

Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide. Lactulose is metabolized in the colon by the saccharolytic bacteria, producing low molecular weight organic acids (mainly lactic acid), which lowers the pH of the colon contents, promote the retention of water by an osmotic effect; thus increasing peristaltic activity. Lactulose is minimally absorbed; therefore, the pharmacokinetics of the absorbed material are not relevant to the principal therapeutic action.

Dosage & Administration

In constipation ( chronic constipation):
  • Adults: Initially 3-6 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1½-6 tea-spoons daily
  • Children up to 14 years: Initially 3 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1-2 tea-spoons daily
  • Infants and toddlers: Initially 1-2 tea-spoons daily, In long-term therapy 1 tea-spoon daily
In damaged intestinal flora:
  • Adults: 1-2 tea-spoons daily
  • Children: 1 tea-spoon daily
For reduction of blood ammonia level:
  • Hyper-ammoniemia in hepatopathy: a maximum of 18-30 tea-spoons daily.
  • In portal systemic encephalopathy: hourly doses of 6-9 tea-spoons of Lactulose solution may be used to induce the rapid laxation. When the laxative effect has been achieved, the dose may then be reduced.

Interaction

There is no significant drug interactions with Regulose. The glycosidic effect of cardiac glycosides can be intensified by potassium deficiency in abuse.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to either galactose and or lactose; galactose-free diet, gastro-cardial symptom complex, suspected intestinal obstruction.

Side Effects

Occasionally flatulence, cramp and abdominal discomfort can occur at the beginning of treatment; this is rapidly eliminated by reducing the dose. Overdose can result in diarrhoea. In abuse, loss of electrolytes (primarily potassium).

Pregnancy & Lactation

US FDA Pregnancy Category of Lactulose is B. Studies show that Lactulose has no adverse effects. Decisions regarding use during pregnancy and lactation must be made by registered physician.

Precautions & Warnings

Regulose should be administered with care to patients who are intolerant to Regulose. The dose used in the treatment of (pre) coma hepaticum is usually much higher and may need to be taken into consideration for diabetics.

Overdose Effects

There have been no reports of accidental overdosage. In the event of acute overdosage it is expected that diarrhoea and abdominal cramps would be the major symptoms.

Therapeutic Class

Osmotic purgatives

Storage Conditions

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Chemical Structure

Molecular Formula : C12H22O11
Chemical Structure : Chemical Structure of Lactulose

Common Questions about Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Oral Solution

What is the use of Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution?

Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution is a synthetic sugar that is used to treat constipation. This water helps in softening stools and reduces the amount of ammonia in the blood of patients with liver disease.

At what frequency do I need to use Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution?

Consume once a day for treatment of constipation and three or four times a day for liver disease.

How long does it take for Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution to work?

It takes about 2-3 days to see the benefits of the treatment. Consult your doctor if you feel constipated even after 3 days of taking Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution.

What is Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution used for?

Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution is used to treat constipation which is presented as infrequent bowel movements, hard and dry stools.

Is Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution a laxative?

Yes, Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution is a laxative which softens the stools by pulling in water from the body to the large intestine.

What are the side effects of taking Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution?

Side effects include diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Diarrhea and abdominal pain occur due to a high dose.

Is it okay to take Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution every day?

You should take Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution for as long as advised by your doctor. You may also take it for as long as constipation lasts, which may be up to a week.

Who should not be given Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution?

Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution should not be given to patients who are allergic to it or are intolerant to lactose (cannot process lactose).

What if I take more than the recommended dose of Regulose 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution?

Taking more than the recommended dose of this medication may cause abdominal pain, electrolyte imbalance and diarrhea, which may last for a couple of days.
Pack Image of Regulose 3.35 gm Oral Solution Pack Image: Regulose 3.35 gm Oral Solution