Lactulose 10 g/15 ml: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Common uses: Constipation – softens hard stools and makes them easier to pass; Constipation in pregnancy, in older people and in children, on a doctor's advice.
Listed MRPs range from ₹0.57 to ₹1.28 per ml across 5 listings.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / ml | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lactulose Solution IP 10g per 15mlJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 100 ml | ₹57.00 | ₹0.57 | 19 October 2026 |
| Laxopeg | Fourrts India Laboratories Pvt Ltd | 200 ml | ₹195.94 | ₹0.98 | 19 October 2026 |
| Purelak | Puremed Biotech | 100 ml | ₹106.70 | ₹1.07 | 19 October 2026 |
| Livoluk | Panacea Biotec Pharma Ltd | 200 ml | ₹235.57 | ₹1.18 | 19 October 2026 |
| Purolac | Navil Laboratories Pvt Ltd | 60 ml | ₹77.00 | ₹1.28 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Constipation – softens hard stools and makes them easier to pass.
- Constipation in pregnancy, in older people and in children, on a doctor's advice.
- Hepatic encephalopathy – confusion caused by severe liver disease, where it lowers ammonia in the gut.
- Preventing straining after piles or anal surgery.
How to take it
Lactulose is a sweet syrup containing 10 g in 15 ml. For constipation, adults usually start with 15 ml once or twice a day and the dose is adjusted until you pass a soft stool daily; children's doses are smaller and set by a doctor. Use the measuring cup, take it at the same times each day, with or without food, and you may mix it with water or juice. Drink plenty of fluids. It takes 2 to 3 days to work, so do not expect a result the same day. If there is no improvement after 3 days of regular use, or you have stomach pain, vomiting or blood in the stool, see a doctor. Much higher doses are used for liver disease, only under medical supervision.
Side effects
Common
- Wind and bloating – usually settle after a few days.
- Stomach cramps.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhoea if the dose is too high.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Prolonged diarrhoea causing dehydration and low potassium – muscle weakness, tiredness, irregular heartbeat.
- Severe allergic reaction – swelling of the face or throat, breathing difficulty.
- Severe or persistent stomach pain or vomiting – may be a blocked bowel; stop and see a doctor.
Safety information
Alcohol
Alcohol does not interact with lactulose, but it can worsen constipation and dehydration, so keep it moderate.
Pregnancy
Lactulose is one of the safest laxatives in pregnancy and while breastfeeding because very little is absorbed. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Kidney problems
Safe in kidney disease at normal doses; avoid prolonged diarrhoea, which upsets salts in the body.
Liver problems
Lactulose is actually a treatment in severe liver disease, at higher doses set by a specialist. Do not change those doses on your own.
Children
Can be given to children and babies on a doctor's advice, with the dose set by age. Do not use for more than a few days in a child without medical advice.
Missed dose
Skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Do not double up.
Interactions
- Other laxatives (bisacodyl, isabgol, senna) – combining can cause diarrhoea and dehydration; use one at a time unless advised.
- Antacids and some antibiotics – may slightly reduce how well lactulose works in liver disease; tell your doctor.
- Water pills, steroids and amphotericin – together with lactulose diarrhoea they can drop potassium.
- Diabetes medicines – lactulose contains some sugar; high doses for liver disease can affect blood glucose.
Frequently asked questions
How long does lactulose take to work?
Usually 2 to 3 days of regular dosing. It is not an overnight laxative. If nothing has happened after 3 days, or you have pain or vomiting, see a doctor instead of increasing the dose on your own.
Lactulose vs Duphalac vs Livoluk – are they the same?
Yes. Duphalac, Livoluk, Laxopeg and other brands all contain lactulose 10 g per 15 ml. They differ only in price, taste and bottle size.
Can lactulose be given to babies and children?
Yes, it is commonly prescribed for constipation in children and infants, with the dose set by age and weight. Give it only on a doctor's or pharmacist's advice and for the shortest time needed.
Is lactulose safe in pregnancy?
Yes, lactulose is one of the preferred laxatives in pregnancy because hardly any is absorbed into the body. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
Can diabetics take lactulose?
At the usual constipation doses the sugar content is small and does not affect blood glucose much. The high doses used for liver disease can, so diabetics should tell their doctor.
Why does lactulose cause gas and bloating?
Lactulose is fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, which produces gas. This usually eases after a few days; if it is troublesome, your doctor may reduce the dose.
Can I take lactulose every day for months?
Lactulose can be used long term, for example in older people or liver disease, but daily constipation for months should be assessed by a doctor to find the cause. Also add fibre, fluids and exercise.
Can I take lactulose with isabgol?
Both soften stools. Using both together can cause bloating and loose motions; try one at a time and ask your pharmacist. Drink plenty of water with isabgol.
Sources
- NHS – Lactulose (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms