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Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution 10 Sachets

Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution 10 Sachets

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  • ✔️ Gently softens stools without stimulating bowel contractions
  • ✔️ Relieves constipation in adults, children, and infants
  • ✔️ Works within 24 to 72 hours of first dose
  • ✔️ Pre-measured sachets for accurate, convenient dosing
  • ✔️ Suitable for use during pregnancy under medical guidance

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What Is Lactulose Oral Solution and How Can It Help?

 

Constipation is something most people experience at some point — and it can be genuinely uncomfortable. Straining, bloating, and that persistent feeling of being blocked up are no fun at all. Lactulose oral solution is a well-established, clinically trusted osmotic laxative that gently encourages your bowel to move without harsh stimulant effects. Each convenient sachet contains 10g of lactulose in 15ml of solution, making it easy to take at home or on the go. You can browse our full range of constipation treatments if you'd like to compare your options.

Available without a prescription, this product is suitable for adults, children, and infants — though dosing does vary by age. At just £4.49 for 10 sachets, it offers a practical, affordable solution for short-term constipation relief.

 

How Does Lactulose Oral Solution Work in the Gut?

 

Lactulose belongs to a class of medicines called osmotic laxatives. Unlike stimulant laxatives, it doesn't force the bowel to contract. Instead, it works by drawing water into the large intestine, which softens the stool and increases its bulk — making it much easier to pass naturally. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream, so its action is confined entirely to the gut.

  • Lactulose passes undigested into the colon.
  • Gut bacteria ferment it, producing acids that lower the pH of the colon.
  • This osmotic effect draws water into the bowel lumen.
  • Stool softens and bowel movements become easier and more regular.

Because it works gradually, you should expect results within 24 to 48 hours — sometimes up to 72 hours. Don't be tempted to double up on doses if nothing happens straight away.

 

Who Is Lactulose Oral Solution Suitable For?

 

This product is suitable for a wide range of people. It's particularly useful if you prefer a gentle, non-stimulant approach to managing constipation. It's also commonly recommended during pregnancy (under medical guidance) and for older adults who may be more sensitive to stronger laxatives.

  • Adults experiencing occasional or chronic constipation
  • Children and infants (with age-appropriate dosing)
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women (seek medical advice first)
  • Older adults who need a gentler laxative option

It is not suitable for people with galactosaemia, intestinal obstruction, or those who are lactose intolerant (as lactulose contains small amounts of galactose and lactose). If you're unsure whether this is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before use.

 

How Does Lactulose Compare to Other Constipation Treatments?

 

Feature Lactulose Oral Solution Senna (Stimulant Laxative)
Mechanism Osmotic — draws water into bowel Stimulant — triggers bowel contractions
Onset of action 24–72 hours 8–12 hours
Suitable for children Yes (with age-appropriate dose) Limited — not recommended under 2 years
Suitable in pregnancy Generally yes (seek advice) Caution — seek medical advice

 

How Should You Store Lactulose Oral Solution Sachets?

 

Proper storage keeps this medicine effective and safe. Store your sachets below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Do not freeze them — freezing can alter the consistency of the solution. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times.

Each sachet is single-use. Once opened, use the full contents immediately and do not store any leftover solution. If you're managing other digestive concerns alongside constipation, you might also find our IBS and cramps range helpful. Check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use and do not use if the sachet is damaged or the seal is broken.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution 10 Sachets specifications
Treatment category Constipation
Mechanism of action Osmotic laxative
Effective Within 24–72 hours
Suitable for Adults, children, infants
Active ingredient Lactulose 10g per 15ml
Pack sizes 10 sachets
Strengths 10g/15ml
UK classification General Sale / OTC
Drug class Osmotic laxative
Preparation Oral solution (sachet)
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution 10 Sachets

 

What Is Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution and What Is It Used For?

 

Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution is an osmotic laxative used to treat constipation. It works by softening stools and encouraging regular bowel movements without stimulating the bowel wall directly. According to the NHS, lactulose is one of the most commonly recommended laxatives for both short-term and longer-term constipation management. It is available over the counter and does not require a prescription for standard constipation use.

It may also be used under medical supervision for hepatic encephalopathy — a condition where the liver cannot adequately remove toxins from the blood — though this use requires GP oversight and is outside the scope of self-treatment.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lactulose Oral Solution?

 

Before taking this medicine, make sure none of the following apply to you. If they do, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use.

Do not use lactulose if you:

  • Have galactosaemia (a rare inherited condition affecting galactose metabolism)
  • Have a known or suspected intestinal obstruction (blockage)
  • Are allergic to lactulose or any of the other ingredients
  • Have lactose intolerance (lactulose contains small amounts of lactose and galactose)

Take care and speak to a pharmacist or GP if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have diabetes (lactulose contains sugars that may affect blood glucose)
  • Have inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Have not had a bowel movement for more than a week

Known drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant interactions are documented at standard OTC doses
  • If you are taking mesalazine or other bowel medicines, seek pharmacist advice

 

How Should You Use Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution?

 

Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist. The solution can be taken directly from the sachet or mixed with a small amount of water or juice if preferred.

  1. Tear open the sachet along the marked edge.
  2. Squeeze the full contents into a glass or directly into your mouth.
  3. If preferred, mix with a small amount of water or fruit juice.
  4. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day (at least 6–8 glasses) to support the laxative effect.
  5. Use at the same time each day to help establish a routine.
Age Group Dose Frequency
Adults and children over 14 15ml (1 sachet) Twice daily
Children 5–14 years 10ml Twice daily
Children 1–5 years 5ml Twice daily
Infants under 1 year 2.5ml Twice daily (seek medical advice)

Doses may be adjusted based on individual response. If you are giving this to a young child or infant, always consult your pharmacist or GP first. You might also find it useful to explore our baby and toddler range for additional products suitable for younger children.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lactulose Oral Solution?

 

Like all medicines, lactulose can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and tend to improve after the first few days of treatment as your body adjusts.

Common side effects:

  • Flatulence (wind)
  • Bloating or abdominal discomfort
  • Nausea, particularly when first starting treatment
  • Abdominal cramps

Less common side effects:

  • Diarrhoea (usually if the dose is too high — reduce the dose if this occurs)
  • Electrolyte imbalance with prolonged high-dose use (seek medical advice)
  • Vomiting (rare)

If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhoea, or any signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing), stop taking the medicine and seek medical attention immediately. For related digestive concerns, our diarrhoea range may also be of interest if loose stools become a concern.

 

How Should You Store Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Use each sachet immediately after opening — do not store opened sachets
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not use if the sachet is damaged or the seal has been broken

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy lactulose oral solution online in the UK?

You can buy Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.49 for 10 sachets. No prescription is required as it is available over the counter. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door.

How does lactulose oral solution work in the body?

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the large intestine, softening the stool and making it easier to pass. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream, so it acts entirely within the gut. Gut bacteria ferment it in the colon, which further supports its laxative effect.

How long does lactulose take to work?

Lactulose typically takes between 24 and 48 hours to produce a bowel movement, though in some cases it may take up to 72 hours. Do not take additional doses if you don't see an immediate result — patience is key with osmotic laxatives. If there is no effect after 72 hours, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

How do I use lactulose sachets step by step?

Tear open the sachet along the marked edge and squeeze the full contents into a glass or directly into your mouth. You can mix it with a small amount of water or juice if you prefer. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day — at least 6 to 8 glasses — to help the medicine work effectively.

What is the correct dose of lactulose for adults?

The standard adult dose is 15ml (one sachet) taken twice daily, which can be adjusted based on your individual response. It is best to start at the recommended dose and only increase if advised by a pharmacist or GP. Do not exceed the stated dose without medical guidance.

Can children take lactulose oral solution?

Yes, lactulose is suitable for children and infants, but the dose varies significantly by age — from 2.5ml for infants under one year up to 10ml for children aged 5 to 14. Always consult a pharmacist or GP before giving lactulose to a young child. You can also explore our baby and toddler range for other age-appropriate health products.

What is the best time to take lactulose oral solution?

There is no single "best" time, but taking lactulose at the same time each day helps establish a consistent routine and makes it easier to remember. Many people find taking it with breakfast and an evening meal works well. Consistency is more important than the specific time of day.

What are the common side effects of lactulose and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are flatulence, bloating, and mild abdominal cramps, which usually settle within the first few days as your body adjusts. If you experience diarrhoea, this is usually a sign the dose is too high — reduce it and the symptoms should resolve. Staying well hydrated can also help minimise discomfort.

Can I take lactulose if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Lactulose is generally considered safe during pregnancy because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream and does not cross the placenta in meaningful amounts. However, you should always speak to your midwife, GP, or pharmacist before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can confirm it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Who should not take lactulose oral solution?

Lactulose is not suitable for people with galactosaemia, intestinal obstruction, or a known allergy to lactulose or its ingredients. People with lactose intolerance should also exercise caution, as lactulose contains small amounts of lactose and galactose. If you have diabetes, speak to your GP or pharmacist first, as lactulose contains sugars that may affect blood glucose levels.

What happens if I miss a dose of lactulose?

If you miss a dose, simply take it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Keeping to a regular schedule helps the medicine work most effectively.

How long can you take lactulose for?

For occasional constipation, lactulose is typically used short-term until bowel movements normalise. For chronic constipation or conditions such as hepatic encephalopathy, it may be used longer-term under medical supervision. If your constipation does not improve within a few days of starting treatment, speak to your GP rather than continuing indefinitely without review.

What are the alternatives to lactulose for constipation?

Alternatives include other osmotic laxatives such as macrogol (e.g. Movicol), stimulant laxatives such as senna or bisacodyl, and bulk-forming laxatives such as ispaghula husk (e.g. Fybogel). The right choice depends on your individual circumstances, so it is worth speaking to a pharmacist. You can also browse our full constipation range to compare available options.

Does lactulose interact with any other medicines?

At standard over-the-counter doses, lactulose has no clinically significant interactions with most common medicines. However, if you are taking medicines for inflammatory bowel disease, or any other bowel-related treatments, it is always worth checking with your pharmacist. They can review your full medication list and advise accordingly.

What does the latest research say about lactulose for constipation?

Lactulose has been used clinically for decades and remains a well-supported first-line option for constipation, particularly in children and older adults, according to NHS guidance. Research continues to support its safety profile and tolerability compared to stimulant laxatives. It is also being studied for its role in gut microbiome modulation, though this remains an emerging area of research.

How Should You Use Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution?

Using lactulose correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Each sachet contains a pre-measured 15ml dose, which makes it straightforward to use at home without needing to measure anything out. You can take it directly from the sachet or mix it into a small glass of water or fruit juice if you find the taste easier that way.

What Is the Correct Dose of Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution?

The dose varies depending on age. Always start with the recommended dose and only adjust if advised by a pharmacist or GP. Do not give more than the stated dose to children without medical guidance.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution?

There is no single correct time of day to take lactulose, but consistency matters. Taking it at the same times each day — for example with breakfast and your evening meal — helps establish a routine and makes it easier to remember. Because lactulose takes 24 to 72 hours to work, timing individual doses to coincide with meals also helps with tolerability and reduces the chance of nausea.

How Long Can You Use Lactulose 10g/15ml Oral Solution For?

For occasional constipation, lactulose is typically used short-term — just until your bowel movements return to normal. Most people find relief within two to three days. If you are using it for a longer-term condition under medical supervision, your GP or pharmacist will advise on the appropriate duration and whether any dose adjustments are needed. Do not use lactulose continuously for more than a few days without speaking to a healthcare professional, as persistent constipation may indicate an underlying condition that needs assessment.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Lactulose Oral Solution?

Most people who take lactulose experience only mild side effects, particularly in the first few days of treatment. These tend to settle on their own as your body gets used to the medicine. The most frequently reported effects are related to the fermentation of lactulose by gut bacteria in the colon.

  • Flatulence (wind) — very common, especially in the first few days
  • Bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
  • Mild abdominal cramps or discomfort
  • Nausea, particularly when starting treatment

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lactulose Oral Solution?

Less commonly, some people may experience more noticeable digestive effects. These are usually dose-related and can often be managed by reducing the amount you take.

  • Diarrhoea — usually a sign the dose is too high; reduce the dose if this occurs
  • Vomiting — rare, but possible particularly in children
  • Electrolyte imbalance — only a concern with prolonged high-dose use; seek medical advice if you feel unusually weak or fatigued

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lactulose Oral Solution?

Serious side effects from lactulose are rare when it is used at the recommended dose for constipation. However, you should stop taking it and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction — rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • Bloody stools or a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than a few days

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lactulose?

If you experience mild side effects such as wind or bloating, these usually resolve within a few days without any action needed. Staying well hydrated and taking lactulose with food can help reduce discomfort. If side effects are troublesome or do not improve, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest adjusting your dose or switching to an alternative laxative. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Lactulose Oral Solution Interact With Other Medicines?

At standard over-the-counter doses, lactulose has no clinically significant interactions with most commonly used medicines. However, if you are taking medicines for inflammatory bowel disease, or any other treatments that affect the gut, it is always sensible to check with your pharmacist before starting lactulose. People with diabetes should also be aware that lactulose contains small amounts of sugars, which may have a minor effect on blood glucose levels at higher doses.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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