Lactulose is a synthetic, non-digestible sugar used in the treatment of chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy, a complication of liver disease. It is a disaccharide (double-sugar) formed from one molecule each of the simple sugars (monosaccharides) fructose and galactose. Lactulose is not normally present in raw milk, but is a product due to the heat-processes: the more the heat, the more the presence of this substance (from 3.5 mg/l in low temperature pastorized milk to 744 mg/l in in-container sterilized milk).It is produced commercially by isomerization of lactose.
It is broadly classified as an osmotic laxative. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, a list of the most important medication needed in a basic health system.
1. Constipation
Lactulose is used in the treatment of chronic constipation in patients of all ages as a long-term treatment.
2. Hyperammonemia
Lactulose is useful in treating high blood ammonia, which can lead to hepatic encephalopathy.
3.Small intestine bacterial overgrowth
Lactulose is used as a test of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
4.Pregnancy
No evidence of harm to the baby has been found when used during pregnancy. It is generally regarded as safe during breastfeeding.