Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml

Description

Indications

• Chronic Constipation: For managing chronic constipation, the first line of treatment should include a fiber-rich diet (such as vegetables, fruits, and salads), sufficient hydration, and regular physical activity. Avolac should only be used if these lifestyle changes are insufficient.

• Intestinal Flora Disturbances: Avolac is useful when there is damage to the intestinal flora, such as after prolonged antibiotic therapy.

• Gallbladder Diseases

• Intestinal Conditions: Avolac may be beneficial in treating conditions like colitis, diverticulosis, and megacolon.

• Elevated Blood Ammonia Levels: Avolac is also used to manage hyperammonemia in hepatopathy and portal-systemic encephalopathy.

• Important Note: Use this medication only as advised by a registered physician.

Description

Avolac is an osmotic laxative that helps effectively relieve constipation. It is a non-absorbable disaccharide that works by drawing water into the intestines, causing fluid accumulation and bowel distention. This process promotes softer stools and accelerates bowel movements.

Pharmacology

Lactulose, the active ingredient in Avolac, is a synthetic disaccharide that is metabolized by saccharolytic bacteria in the colon. This metabolism produces low-molecular-weight organic acids, mainly lactic acid, which lowers the pH of the colon contents. This pH reduction facilitates water retention through osmotic effects and stimulates peristalsis. Since lactulose is minimally absorbed, the pharmacokinetics of the absorbed substance do not influence its primary therapeutic action.

Dosage & Administration

• For Chronic Constipation:

  • Adults: Start with 3–6 teaspoons daily. For long-term use, 1½–6 teaspoons daily.
  • Children (up to 14 years): Start with 3 teaspoons daily. For long-term use, 1–2 teaspoons daily.
  • Infants and Toddlers: Start with 1–2 teaspoons daily. For long-term use, 1 teaspoon daily.

• For Intestinal Flora Disturbances:

  • Adults: 1–2 teaspoons daily.
  • Children: 1 teaspoon daily.

• For Reducing Blood Ammonia Levels:

  • Hyperammonemia in Hepatopathy: 18–30 teaspoons daily.
  • Portal-Systemic Encephalopathy: To induce rapid laxation, 6–9 teaspoons of Lactulose solution may be administered hourly. Once laxation is achieved, the dose can be reduced.

Important Note: Follow the dosage instructions as prescribed by your physician.

Interaction

Avolac does not show significant interactions with other drugs. However, the potassium-depleting effects of Avolac may enhance the action of cardiac glycosides in the case of potassium deficiency.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to galactose and/or lactose
• Individuals on a galactose-free diet
• Gastro-cardiac symptom complex
• Suspected intestinal obstruction

Side Effects

• Early treatment with Avolac may cause mild side effects like flatulence, cramps, and abdominal discomfort, which generally subside by reducing the dose.
• An overdose may lead to diarrhea. Prolonged misuse can cause electrolyte loss, particularly of potassium.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Lactulose is classified under FDA Category B for pregnancy, which means it has not shown any harmful effects during pregnancy. However, decisions regarding its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be made by a registered physician.

Precautions & Warnings

Avolac should be used with caution in patients who are intolerant to it. When used for treating pre-coma hepaticum, higher doses are often required and should be considered for diabetic patients.

Overdose Effects

While no cases of accidental overdose have been reported, symptoms of an overdose may include diarrhea and abdominal cramps.

Therapeutic Class

Osmotic Laxatives

Storage Conditions

Store in a dry place, away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical Structure

• Molecular Formula: C12H22O11
• Chemical Structure: Lactulose (Chemical Structure)

Frequently Asked Questions about Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Oral Solution

• What is the use of Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution? Avolac is a synthetic sugar used to treat constipation by softening stools and reducing blood ammonia levels in liver disease patients.

• How often should I use Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution? For constipation, take it once a day. For liver disease, take it three to four times daily.

• How long does it take for Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution to work? You should begin to notice the effects in 2–3 days. If constipation persists after 3 days, consult your doctor.

• Is Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution a laxative? Yes, Avolac is a laxative that works by drawing water into the large intestine to soften stools.

• What are the side effects of taking Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution? Side effects may include diarrhea, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, especially at higher doses.

• Can I take Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution every day? You should take it as long as recommended by your doctor or until constipation resolves, typically up to one week.

• Who should not take Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution? People allergic to Avolac or intolerant to lactose should avoid this medication.

• What if I take more than the recommended dose of Avolac 3.35 gm/5 ml Solution? Taking more than the recommended dose may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and an electrolyte imbalance, potentially lasting a few days.