Introduction
Duphalac Syrup goes by the generic name Lactulose, which is a synthetic disaccharide that primary function is to act as a laxative. It is commonly used in chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy indications. Since its introduction, it has practically assumed a position of ‘relevance’ owing to its effectiveness and, purportedly, fewer side effects than some of the other drugs in its class. This article focuses at the evidence of using Duphalac Syrup and the impacts it triggers in the body system of man including the benefits it has and everything ill that can be associated with it in regards to medicine.
Mechanism of Action
Duphalac Syrup has lactulose as its active ingredient which is a synthetic saccharide derived from galactose and fructose. Lactulose when is taken internally is not absorbed in the small intestine but rather gets into the colon where it is fermented into lactic acid, acetic acid, and minor formic and butyric acids by colonic bacteria. This process makes the composition of the colon acidic decreasing the water content and the size of the stools encouraging peristalsis and defecation. Also, it suppresses the growth of ammonia producing bacteria this can be advantageous in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy through ammonia control in the blood.
Benefits of Duphalac Syrup
1. Treatment of Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation is one of the common conditions which can be treated with the help of Duphalac Syrup. Constipation is an ailment of the gastro intestinal system that is described by irregular, painful and infrequent passage of stool, and hard, dry feces. Duphalac is of great aid in managing these symptoms because it aids in easing the passage of stool. Another advantage of this type of laxatives is that the action is soothing compared to stimulant laxatives that require long-term use, and the body becomes dependent on.
2. Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Hepatic encephalopathy is a clinical syndrome that presents with a decrease in the patient’s mental status resulting from the inflammation of the liver and accumulation of toxins such as ammonia in the body. The use of Duphalac Syrup helps the intake of sodium benzoate for the elimination of blood ammonia by encouraging growth of friendly bacteria that convert this ammonia to ammonium which is passed in stool. This in turn, aids in managing the neurological manifestations of HE including changes in mental state, level of consciousness and coma in the most severe form of the disease.
3. Prebiotic Effects
The active component of Duphalac acts as a prebiotics, which in turn, enhances the growth of the healthy bacteria in the gut like lactobacilli as well as bifidobacteria. These bacteria are vital in many areas that include the improvement of the gut and the immune system, hindering the growth of other undesirable bacteria. It could therefore be argued that consistent intake of Duphalac is beneficial to the gut flora constitution, which is vital for vitality and wellness.
4. Safety in Special Populations
Overall, it has been established that Duphalac Syrup is safe for use in the different groups of the population such as; children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as the elderly. Hence, it has the desirable characteristics of a gentle action and minimal resorption into the systemic circulation, making it the first-line of treatment for constipation in these populations. It is appropriate for use by pregnant women since it does not have adverse effects on the fetus unlike other laxatives, and it treats constipation admirably.
Possible unwanted side effects of Duphalac Syrup
About the tolerance of Duphalac itself, it can be stated that it is relatively safe and noncomplicated but the fact is that there could be some side effects. These may differ according to the patient or the amount administered into the body. Potential adverse effects are herniated on the gastro-intestinal tract and they are normally minor and temporary.
1. Gastrointestinal Disturbances
Some of the side effects that are associated with Duphalac Syrup are as follows; The uncommon side effects are as follows; These include:
Flatulence: Enhanced flatus production or flatulence is also a frequent occurrence and it often observed early in the therapy. This is due to the bacterial fermentation of lactulose which is a non-absorbable sugar that reaches the colon. This side effect is often mild, and flatulence should decrease as the body gets used to the medication.
Abdominal Pain and Cramps: Some people may feel bloated or have gas or have some bowel movement problems because of the stimulating of peristaltism. These side effects are generally insignificant and subside when the patient has continued with the required dosage of the drug.
Diarrhea: The side effects associated with consumption of large amount of Duphalac are diarrhoea which causes dehydration as well as imbalance of electrolyte in the body. This means that one has to ensure that they take the medications in the recommended quantities to counter this side effect.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances
The side effects of the prolonged administration of Duphalac and its high intake include hypokalemia – low potassium in the body and hypernatremia- high sodium level in the body. These imbalances can lead to muscle weakness as well as fatigue, and in severe outbreaks, cardiac dysrhythmias. It is advised that patients treated with Duphalac for a long term need to have their electrolyte balance checked from time to time.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
It should also be noted that some people could develop cases of nausea and vomiting especially when they have been consuming the syrup in large quantities. Thus, if one insists on using ranitidine, it is recommended to do so together with food, preferably with water or juice, and in divided, rather than larger, doses to lessen these side effects.
4. Allergic Reactions
However, it is quite uncommon to have an allergic reaction to Duphalac Syrup in some rightful users. Side effects of skin are rash and itching while reaction of cardiovascular system are swelling of face, tongue or throat; severe dizziness and difficulty in breathing. These are some of the essential facts that a person experiencing such symptoms needs to know: The chest pain, whether it is pressure, squeezing, or fullness, heartburn, and cold sweats among others necessitate an urgent visit to the doctor.
Contraindications and Precautions
Duphalac Syrup is contraindicated in individuals with:Duphalac Syrup is contraindicated in individuals with:
Galactosemia: A type of metabolic disease which relates to the inability of the human body to properly metabolize galactose, one of the ingredients in lactulose.
Bowel Obstruction: Duphalac should not be taken by patients with a suspected or confirmed case of bowel obstruction due to the worsening of the condition.