Lactulose+rifaximin
About Lactulose+rifaximin
Lactulose+rifaximin is primarily used for the management of hepatic encephalopathy. Hepatic encephalopathy is a brain condition caused by liver disease. When the liver can't filter toxins from the blood, it leads to a buildup of ammonia, affecting brain function.
Lactulose+rifaximin contains Lactulose and Rifaximin. It works by decreasing the amount of toxins in the blood, reducing ammonia production by the gut bacteria, and reducing ammonia absorption into the bloodstream. Together, Lactulose+rifaximin alleviates symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.
Take Lactulose+rifaximin with or without food. In some cases, you may experience certain common side effects, such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Before using Lactulose+rifaximin, inform your doctor if you have any allergies, liver or kidney problems, or are pregnant/breastfeeding. Also, inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking and about your health condition to rule out any unpleasant side effects.
Uses of Lactulose+rifaximin
Medicinal Benefits
Lactulose+rifaximin is used to manage hepatic encephalopathy. Lactulose+rifaximin contains Lactulose and Rifaximin. Lactulose decreases the amount of toxins in the blood, whereas rifaximin reduces the production of ammonia by the gut bacteria and ammonia absorption into the blood system. Together, Lactulose+rifaximin improves cognitive function and quality of life in patients with liver disease.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Lactulose+rifaximin
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
Drug Warnings
Do not take Lactulose+rifaximin if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or if you have intestinal blockage. Inform your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions, including liver disease, diarrhoea with fever or blood, congestive heart failure, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypersensitivity, intestinal obstruction, lactose intolerance, undiagnosed rectal bleeding, if you are on a galactose-free or low-galactose diet, or if you are using any other antibiotics. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking antibiotics, anti-epileptics, blood thinner (warfarin), immunosuppressant (cyclosporine) or medicines used to treat abnormal heart rhythm.
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found or established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have gastrointestinal disorders, congestive heart failure, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, intestinal obstruction, lactose intolerance, or kidney/liver impairment.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known if alcohol affects Lactulose+rifaximin. However, it is advised to avoid alcohol consumption to prevent liver damage.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant, consult your doctor before using Lactulose+rifaximin, as there is limited information available on its safe use during pregnancy. Your doctor will prescribe it only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionConsult your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as limited information is available on its safety during lactation. Your doctor will prescribe it only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
cautionLactulose+rifaximin may cause dizziness and tiredness. If affected, exercise caution and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the dizziness or tiredness passes and you feel steady.
Liver
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have a liver impairment before taking Lactulose+rifaximin.
Kidney
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment before taking Lactulose+rifaximin.
Children
cautionLactulose+rifaximin is not recommended for children, as its safety and effectiveness is unknown.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Restrict protein and sodium intake to avoid worsening symptoms and manage fluid retention and swelling.
- Increase fibre intake from sources like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit or avoid foods high in ammonia, including red meat, high-mercury fish, eggs, high-fat dairy products, and processed meats.
- Engage in moderate-intensity exercise (e.g., walking, cycling, swimming) for at least 30 minutes per day.
- Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to aid in recovery and repair.
- Avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco products to prevent exacerbating liver damage and worsening symptoms.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Hepatic/liver encephalopathy: It is a decrease in brain function due to liver disease. The liver cannot remove toxins from the body adequately, which results in a buildup of toxins in the blood, thereby leading to brain damage. Symptoms include confusion, forgetfulness, difficulty thinking, low concentration, personality changes, and problems with small hand movements.
FAQs
Lactulose+rifaximin is used to manage hepatic encephalopathy.
Lactulose+rifaximin works by reducing the production of ammonia by the gut bacteria and ammonia absorption into the blood system. It also decreases the amount of toxins in the blood.
Do not stop taking Lactulose+rifaximin without consulting your doctor to prevent recurring symptoms. To treat your condition effectively, continue taking Lactulose+rifaximin for as long as it has been prescribed by the doctor.
Take Lactulose+rifaximin exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Take it at the same time daily, as it will help you remember taking the medication.
Lactulose+rifaximin contains Lactulose and Rifaximin, which work together to manage hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia production and absorption in the gut.
Lactulose+rifaximin is a combination medication consisting of lactulose, an osmotic laxative, and rifaximin, an antibiotic.
Lactulose+rifaximin should be stored in a cool and dry place away from sunlight. Keep Lactulose+rifaximin out of reach and sight of children.
The common side effects of Lactulose+rifaximin may include diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
