Laevolac is a medication belonging to the gastrointestinal drug group, primarily used for:
- Treating constipation
- Regulating colonic motility
- Managing hepatic encephalopathy (a condition related to portal vein disorders)
Continue reading to learn more about Laevolac’s uses, dosage, and safety precautions.
1. What is Laevolac?
Laevolac belongs to the gastrointestinal drug group and is used for:
- Constipation treatment
- Regulating normal colonic motility
- Managing hepatic encephalopathy
Laevolac in Vietnam
- Registration number: VN – 19613 – 16
- Manufacturer: Fresenius Kabi Austria GmbH (Austria)
- Dosage form: Oral solution, available in packs of 20 sachets (15ml per sachet).Lactulose (10g per sachet)
Lactulose is a synthetic disaccharide derived from fructose and D-galactose. In the colon, bacteria ferment lactulose into short-chain organic acids, which:
- Lower colonic pH
- Increase osmotic pressure, leading to water retention
- Stimulate bowel movements, soften stool, and relieve constipation
How Does Laevolac Work for Hepatic Encephalopathy?
- In high doses, Laevolac reduces ammonia (NH3) levels in the blood.
- Acidification of the colon decreases NH3 absorption into the bloodstream.
- NH3 is converted into NH4+, which cannot be absorbed and is excreted.
- Studies show lactulose reduces blood NH3 levels by 25-50% in patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
2. What Is Laevolac Used For?
Laevolac is a laxative used in the following cases:
- Constipation treatment
- Caused by intestinal motility disorders, low-fiber diets, lack of exercise, or insufficient water intake.
- Prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, including pre-coma and coma states.
3. How to Use and Dosage Guidelines
How to Take Laevolac: Laevolac comes in liquid form and should be taken orally.
Dosage for Constipation:
- Infants (28 days – 23 months): 5ml per day (1 teaspoon)
- Children (2 – 6 years): 5 – 10ml per day (1 – 2 teaspoons)
- Children (6 – 14 years): 15ml per day (1 sachet)
- Children >14 years & Adults: 1 – 3 sachets per day (depending on severity)
Take the daily dose in the morning or as prescribed by a doctor.
Dosage for Hepatic Encephalopathy:
- Children: 3 – 9ml per day, divided into multiple doses
- Adults: Start with 1 sachet (15ml), 3 – 4 times per day. Increase to 2 – 3 sachets, 3 – 4 times per day
If diarrhea occurs during treatment, reduce the dose or stop taking the medication.
Emergency Use in Hepatic Coma:
For patients in pre-coma or coma states, Laevolac can be administered rectally:
- Mix 300ml Laevolac with 700ml water or 0.9% saline solution.
- Hold the solution for 30 – 60 minutes.
- Repeat every 4 – 6 hours as needed.
- Treatment duration depends on the patient’s condition.
4. Contraindications: When Not to Use Laevolac?
Do NOT use Laevolac in the following cases:
- Allergy to lactulose or any component of the medication
- Fructose intolerance or Fructose/Galactose malabsorption syndrome
- Lactase enzyme deficiency or Galactosemia
- Intestinal obstruction (bowel blockage)
- Gastrocardiac syndrome (stomach-related heart issues)
5. Missed Dose or Overdose Management
Missed Dose:
- Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
- If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose.
- Do NOT double the dose to compensate.
Overdose Symptoms: Taking excessive Laevolac can cause severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance (especially potassium loss). If combined with potassium-lowering medications, symptoms may worsen, including:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Muscle pain & weakness
- Irregular heart rhythms
Overdose Management:
- If administered rectally, perform immediate enema evacuation.
- For oral overdose, there is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic.
- Rehydrate and restore electrolyte balance as needed.
6. Side Effects of Laevolac
Using Laevolac laxative can cause some side effects such as:
- Common side effects: Bloating & abdominal pain
- Less common: Electrolyte imbalances, digestive disorders
- Rare but serious: Metabolic disorders (e.g., hypernatremia – high sodium levels in the blood)
If any of these symptoms occur, consult a doctor or pharmacist immediately.
7. Additional Precautions
- Pregnant & breastfeeding women can safely use Laevolac.
- Does not cause drowsiness, so it is safe for drivers and machine operators.
- Store below 30°C, in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Do not use expired medication.
Laevolac is a safe and effective treatment for constipation and hepatic encephalopathy when used correctly. However:
- Read the instructions carefully before use.
- Consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking the medication.
- Do not self-medicate, as misuse may cause unwanted side effects.
For any concerns or abnormal symptoms, seek medical advice immediately!
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