Does Lactulose Interact with Laxatives?
Lactulose and Laxatives have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Other laxatives should not be used concomitantly, especially during initial therapy for portal-systemic encephalopathy, as loose stools may falsely suggest adequate dosage. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Lactulose Class
- Osmotic Laxative
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Lactulose and your doctor is considering prescribing Laxatives (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider