Lactihep Syp 200ml

LACTIHEP SYP 200ML

Lactihep Syrup is a laxative medication manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., primarily used to manage constipation and prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Lactihep Syrup
  • Common Name: Lactitol (main active ingredient)

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredients: Lactitol Monohydrate (typically 10 g per 15 ml or 66.67% w/v)
  • Other Ingredient: Benzoic Acid (acts as a preservative, typically 0.0225 g per 15 ml)

• Uses:

  • Constipation: It is prescribed for the treatment of infrequent bowel movements, and dry, painful, or hard-to-pass stools. Lactihep works as an osmotic laxative by drawing water into the intestine, which softens the stool and increases its volume, making it easier to pass.
  • Hepatic Encephalopathy: It is also used to prevent and treat hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where brain function decreases due to liver disease. Lactitol lowers the colon pH, which helps to suppress the absorption of ammonia and other toxins, and enhances their excretion through feces.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Lactihep Syrup should be taken as advised by a doctor.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • The prescribed dose should be measured using the provided measuring cup.
  • It can be mixed with water or fruit juice.
  • For constipation, it is often recommended to take it at bedtime as it may take 6 to 8 hours to show effect.
  • Typical adult dosage for constipation ranges from 15 ml to 30 ml once daily.
  • For hepatic encephalopathy, the dosage may be higher and is usually prescribed by a doctor.
  • Do not exceed the recommended dose and do not take it for more than a week without consulting a doctor for constipation, as it might cause dependency.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Abdominal distension, cramps, flatulence (gas), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These usually resolve over time.
  • Serious Side Effects (less common): Severe stomach pain, severe diarrhea, mood changes, and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
  • Other: Electrolyte imbalance (can cause changes in potassium and sodium levels).

• Precautions:

  • Contraindications: Do not take if allergic to lactitol or other ingredients, if suffering from intestinal obstruction, or if diagnosed with galactosaemia.
  • Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have diabetes (lactitol may slightly increase blood glucose levels), or if you need to undergo a colonoscopy.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor. It may be unsafe during pregnancy; a doctor will weigh benefits against risks. Limited studies are available for breastfeeding.
  • Interactions: It may reduce the absorption of other medicines; take other medications at least two hours before or after Lactihep. It can also increase potassium loss when taken with certain diuretics, steroids, or amphotericin B.
  • Monitoring: Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes, blood lactose, and blood glucose levels may be advised, especially with prolonged use.
  • Consult a doctor if there is no bowel movement, rectal bleeding, or if constipation persists after three days.

• Storage:

  • Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
  • Do not freeze the syrup.
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children.

What is Lactihep Syrup used for?

Lactihep Syrup is primarily used to treat constipation, providing relief from infrequent bowel movements and hardened stools. It is also used to prevent and manage hepatic encephalopathy, a serious complication of liver disease that can affect brain function.

How does Lactihep Syrup work?

Lactihep Syrup contains lactitol, which acts as an osmotic laxative. It works by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and makes it easier to pass. In cases of hepatic encephalopathy, lactitol helps by lowering the colon pH, which reduces the absorption of harmful toxins like ammonia from the gut and promotes their excretion through feces. Benzoic acid is also present as a preservative.

What is the usual dosage of Lactihep Syrup?

The dosage of Lactihep Syrup should be taken as advised by your doctor, as it can vary based on the condition being treated and individual response. For constipation, it is generally recommended to take it once a day, typically at bedtime, as it may take 6 to 8 hours to show effect. You can mix the syrup with water or fruit juice if preferred. It's crucial not to exceed the prescribed dosage without consulting a doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Lactihep Syrup?

Common side effects of Lactihep Syrup may include abdominal discomfort, flatulence (gas), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Diarrhea and abdominal pain can occur with high doses, and the dose should be reduced in such cases. Rarely, it might lead to electrolyte imbalances. If you experience serious side effects like severe stomach pain, severe diarrhea, mood changes, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention.

Is Lactihep Syrup safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when taking Lactihep Syrup during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is generally recommended to consult your doctor before using this medicine in these situations to discuss the potential risks and benefits, as definite evidence of risk to the developing baby has been noted by some sources.

Can Lactihep Syrup be taken with other medications?

Lactihep Syrup can interact with certain medications. It may reduce the absorption of other medicines if taken concomitantly, so it's advised to take other medications at least two hours before or after Lactihep Syrup. It may also interact with antibiotics, cardiac glycosides (like digoxin), and diuretics, potentially altering their effects or increasing the risk of electrolyte imbalances. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Lactihep Syrup?

Before taking Lactihep Syrup, inform your doctor if you have diabetes, intestinal obstruction, or galactosemia (a genetic disorder related to sugar metabolism), as the medicine contains lactitol. Diabetic patients may need closer monitoring of blood sugar levels. Prolonged use of Lactihep Syrup for more than a week is generally not recommended for constipation without consulting a doctor, to prevent dependency. Adequate fluid intake is also advisable during treatment. Lactihep Syrup is not recommended for children under 14 years of age unless prescribed by a doctor.

What happens if a dose of Lactihep Syrup is missed?

If you miss a dose of Lactihep Syrup, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Lactihep Syrup be stored?

Lactihep Syrup should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C. Keep it away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to maintain its effectiveness. It should not be frozen and must be kept out of reach of children.