Duphalac Enema 300ml

DUPHALAC ENEMA 300ML by ABBOTT

Duphalac Enema 300ml is a laxative solution manufactured by Abbott, primarily used for the treatment of chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy.

• Composition: The active ingredient in Duphalac Enema 300ml is Lactulose, typically at a concentration of 3.335 gm/5ml or 3.35 gm/5ml. It may also contain small amounts of other sugars like galactose, lactose, epilactose, tagatose, and fructose.

• Uses:

  • Chronic Constipation: Duphalac Enema works by drawing water into the bowel, which softens the stool and promotes easier and more regular bowel movements.
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE): This medication is also prescribed for hepatic encephalopathy, a liver condition that leads to the accumulation of toxic substances, particularly ammonia, in the blood, affecting brain function. Lactulose helps reduce ammonia levels by drawing it into the colon for elimination.
  • It may also be used for intestinal preparation before certain medical procedures or where a soft stool is medically beneficial (e.g., hemorrhoids, anal surgery).

• Dosage and Administration: For use as a retention enema, 300 mL of Duphalac can be mixed with 700 mL of water or normal saline. This enema is typically retained for 30-60 minutes and can be repeated every 4-6 hours until oral medication can be taken. Oral dosages for constipation and HE vary and should be adjusted to individual needs as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It may take 24-48 hours for effects to be noticeable.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. These are usually mild and may subside after a few days.
  • Serious: Diarrhea (especially at high doses), which can lead to electrolyte imbalance (e.g., decreased serum potassium levels), bed-soiling, and peri-anal irritation.

• Precautions:

  • Contraindicated in patients with galactosaemia, gastrointestinal obstruction, digestive perforation, or risk of digestive perforation.
  • Use with caution in diabetics as it contains sugars (galactose, lactose) and may elevate blood glucose, particularly with prolonged use.
  • Patients with lactose intolerance should also use it with care.
  • Evaluate painful abdominal symptoms of undetermined cause before treatment.
  • A theoretical hazard exists for patients undergoing electrocautery during proctoscopy or colonoscopy due to potential hydrogen gas production.
  • Ensure adequate fluid intake (6-8 glasses daily) during treatment.

• Storage: Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze. It is typically stored at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC, or sometimes between 2-8°C.

Frequently Asked Questions about DUPHALAC ENEMA 300ML by ABBOTT

DUPHALAC ENEMA 300ML by Abbott is a medication containing lactulose, primarily used as a laxative. Here are some frequently asked questions about this medicine:

What is DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution used for?

DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution is mainly used to treat constipation, helping to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. Additionally, it is prescribed for a severe liver condition called hepatic encephalopathy, which can cause symptoms like confusion, tremors, and decreased consciousness due to the buildup of toxins in the blood. It may also be used for intestinal preparation before certain medical procedures.

How does DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution work?

The active ingredient, lactulose, is a synthetic sugar that works by drawing water from the body into the bowel. This action softens the stool, making it easier to pass and relieving constipation. In cases of hepatic encephalopathy, lactulose helps reduce ammonia levels in the blood by drawing ammonia into the colon, facilitating the elimination of toxins from the body.

What is the usual dosage of DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution?

For acute cases of hepatic encephalopathy (impending coma or coma stage), Duphalac Enema Solution may be administered rectally. A typical regimen involves mixing 300 ml of Duphalac with 700 ml of water or normal saline, to be retained for 30-60 minutes, and repeated every 4-6 hours until oral medication can be taken. For constipation or other uses, the dosage will be determined by your healthcare provider based on individual needs, age, and medical history. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions for the correct dosage and administration.

What are the possible side effects of DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution?

Common side effects include flatulence (wind), abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These are usually mild and may subside within a few days as your body adjusts. More severe, though less common, side effects can include profound diarrhea and electrolyte imbalances (like decreased potassium levels). If severe or persistent side effects occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Is DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects on the developing baby, and systemic exposure to lactulose in breastfeeding women is negligible. However, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before using any medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution be taken with other medications?

While specific drug-drug interactions may not always be extensively documented, it's important to inform your doctor about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, nutritional supplements, and herbal products, to avoid potential interactions. Certain medications might interact with lactulose, for example, it may decrease the therapeutic effect of glutamine or increase potassium loss when taken with thiazides, steroids, and amphotericin B.

What precautions should be taken when using DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution?

You should not use DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution if you are allergic to lactulose or any of its components, or if you have galactosemia, intestinal blockage, or gastrointestinal perforation. Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, are lactose intolerant, or have conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Adequate fluid intake (6-8 glasses of fluid daily) is important during treatment. Long-term use of unadjusted doses may lead to diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance.

What happens if a dose of DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 compensate for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution be stored?

DUPHALAC ENEMA Solution should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. It is generally recommended to store it at room temperature, between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC, and protect it from light and heat. Do not freeze the medicine. Keep it out of reach and sight of children.