Lactifiber Granules 120gm

LACTIFIBER GRANULES 120GM

Name

• Common Name: Lactifiber Granules
• Brand Name: LACTIFIBER GRANULES 120GM by SUN PHARMA-SYGNUS DIV

Composition

Lactifiber Granules 120GM contains a combination of two active ingredients:

• Ispaghula Husk: 3.5 gm
• Lactitol Monohydrate: 10 gm

Ispaghula acts as a bulk-forming laxative by absorbing water and increasing stool volume, making it softer and easier to pass. Lactitol is an osmotic laxative that draws water into the intestine, further softening the stool and promoting bowel movements.

Uses

Lactifiber Granules are primarily prescribed for the management and treatment of constipation. It is also used for:

• Managing chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults.
• Relieving symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.
• Addressing constipation associated with conditions like fissures and hemorrhoids.
• Some sources also mention its use for hepatic encephalopathy.

Dosage and Administration

Lactifiber Granules should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Preparation: Empty the prescribed amount of granules into a glass of water or milk (approximately 150 ml), stir thoroughly, and consume immediately to prevent the granules from settling.
• Timing: It is often recommended to take it with food, preferably at bedtime, as it may take 6 to 8 hours to show its effect.
• Fluid Intake: Drink plenty of fluids (at least 6-8 glasses) daily while taking this medicine to prevent dehydration.
• Other Medications: Take Lactifiber Granules at least 1-2 hours before or after other medications to avoid interference with their absorption. Do not take it dry to prevent throat obstruction.

Side Effects

Common side effects are generally temporary and tend to resolve over time. Consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Flatulence (gas)
  • Abdominal pain/cramps
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Abdominal bloating
  • Loose stools (diarrhea)
  • Cough (less common)
• Overdose: An overdose may lead to nausea, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, or excessive bloating. Consult a doctor immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if you are allergic to Ispaghula, Lactitol, or any other components of the granules.
• Medical Conditions: Avoid if you have conditions such as ileostomy, colostomy, galactosemia (galactose indigestion disorder), intestinal obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain, or rectal bleeding.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; it will be prescribed only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Children: Not recommended for use in children below 12 or 18 years of age due to a lack of established safety and effectiveness.
• Duration of Use: Do not take Lactifiber Granules for more than a week without consulting a doctor, as it might lead to dependency for bowel movements.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes, blood lactose, and blood glucose levels may be advised.
• When to Contact Doctor: Inform your doctor if there is no bowel movement or if you notice rectal bleeding after taking the medicine.
• Dietary Restrictions: Exercise caution if you have diabetes or are on a low-lactose diet.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine in its original container, tightly closed.
• Ensure it is kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
• Store below 30°C.

LACTIFIBER GRANULES, manufactured by SUN PHARMA-SYGNUS DIV, is a combination medicine primarily used to treat constipation. It contains Ispaghula (also known as psyllium husk) and Lactitol monohydrate as its active ingredients.

What is Lactifiber Granules used for?

Lactifiber Granules are used for the treatment of constipation. They work by softening stools and making them easier to pass, which helps relieve the pain and discomfort associated with constipation and can improve overall quality of life. This medication can also help manage the recurrence of constipation and may be used in the management of fissures and hemorrhoids.

How does Lactifiber Granules work?

Lactifiber Granules contain two main ingredients: Ispaghula and Lactitol. Ispaghula is a bulk-forming laxative that works by absorbing water and increasing stool volume, making the stool softer and easier to pass. Lactitol is a disaccharide sugar that draws water into the colon, increasing the water content and volume of stools, and stimulating bowel movements.

What is the usual dosage for Lactifiber Granules?

The dosage of Lactifiber Granules is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. It should be taken with food, at the dose and for the duration recommended by your doctor. For best results, it is often recommended to take it at bedtime as it may take 6 to 8 hours to show effect. Typically, a scoop of granules (15g) is mixed into a glass of water (about 150 ml), stirred well, and consumed immediately.

What are the possible side effects of Lactifiber Granules?

Common side effects of Lactifiber Granules include flatulence (gas), bloating, stomach cramps, abdominal discomfort, and occasionally loose stools or diarrhea. These side effects are usually temporary and tend to resolve as your body adjusts to the medicine. If any side effects persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

Is Lactifiber Granules safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before using Lactifiber Granules. While some sources suggest it is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, others state that information is not available or that it is not recommended unless necessary due to lack of safety and efficacy studies in pregnant women. Your doctor will assess the benefits versus risks before prescribing.

Can Lactifiber Granules be taken with other medications?

Lactifiber Granules may interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects. It is recommended to take Lactifiber Granules at least 30 minutes to one hour before or after other medications to avoid interference with absorption. Specifically, a 4-hour gap is advised for thyroid hormones (levothyroxine), and at least a 2-hour gap for antibiotics (like doxycycline and minocycline) and calcium or iron supplements. Always inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken with Lactifiber Granules?

Do not take Lactifiber Granules if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or if you have conditions like intestinal obstruction, unexplained abdominal pain, or bleeding. It should not be taken dry, as this increases the risk of throat obstruction and choking. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 6-8 glasses) while taking this medicine. Use with caution if you have liver or kidney conditions, or inflammatory bowel disease. Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes, blood lactose, and blood glucose levels may be necessary. Lactifiber Granules are generally not recommended for children below 18 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Lactifiber Granules, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Lactifiber Granules be stored?

Lactifiber Granules should be kept in the container it came in, tightly closed. Store it in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, moisture, and heat, ideally below 30°C. Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Dispose of any unused medicine properly.