Lactulose is a laxative taken to treat constipation (difficulty pooing).
It's also taken to help a condition caused by severe liver disease called hepatic encephalopathy.
Lactulose comes as a sweet syrup that you swallow.
It's available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies.
Key facts
- Lactulose relieves constipation by drawing water into your bowel to make poo softer.
- The most common side effects are diarrhoea, bloating and wind. These are usually mild and do not last long.
- Lactulose takes at least 2 days to work. Talk to your doctor if your constipation has not improved after 4 or 5 days.
- If you find the taste of lactulose too sweet, you can dilute it with fruit juice or water.