Duphalac Syrup Uses

Duphalac syrup is a medication primarily used for the treatment of constipation and to relieve the symptoms associated with hepatic encephalopathy, a condition that occurs when the liver is unable to effectively remove toxins from the blood. The following are some common uses of Duphalac Syrup:

1. Constipation: Duphalac syrup is commonly used to relieve and prevent constipation. It works by drawing water into the bowel, softening the stool, and promoting regular bowel movements. It is often used in cases where dietary and lifestyle changes have not provided sufficient relief.
2. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Duphalac syrup is also used in the management of hepatic encephalopathy, a condition characterized by impaired brain function due to liver dysfunction. Duphalac helps reduce the absorption of ammonia in the gut, which is a byproduct of digestion and can accumulate in the blood and affect brain function. By promoting the elimination of ammonia through the stool, Duphalac syrup helps improve the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.
3. Preoperative Bowel Preparation: Duphalac syrup may be used as part of bowel preparation before certain surgical procedures or diagnostic tests. It helps clear the bowel of stool and ensures a clean bowel for the procedure.
4. Intestinal Conditions: Duphalac syrup is sometimes used in the management of certain intestinal conditions, such as diverticulosis or diverticulitis. It can help soften the stool and ease bowel movements, reducing discomfort and preventing complications.

Off-label Uses of Duphalac Syrup

1. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): Duphalac syrup has been used off-label in the treatment of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. It can help alter the gut microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
2. Colon Health: Duphalac syrup has been used off-label to improve colon health and prevent certain conditions, such as colon cancer. It is believed to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, which can have a positive impact on overall colon health.
3. Intestinal Transit Disorders: Duphalac syrup has been used off-label in the management of certain intestinal transit disorders, such as slow transit constipation. It can help regulate bowel movements and improve stool consistency.

Duphalac Syrup is one of the leading brands of Lactulose in oral liquid form, manufactured and marketed by Abbott Laboratories, Pakistan.

The following are some alternative brands of Duphalac Syrup and their manufacturer.

• Lilac : Getz Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Laevolac : Hilton Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Floralac : Platinum Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Lactodil : Don Valley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Kolac : Asian Continental (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• B-Lact : Brookes Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
• Coslax : Cosmo Pharma, Pakistan.
• Sanlac : Novartis Pharma (Pakistan) Ltd.
• Luxave : Searle Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
• Dulac : (CCL) Consolidated Chemical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Duphalac is available in Syrup Form with the following strength.

Duphalac Syrup : 3.35g/5ml strength.

Duphalac syrup may not be suitable for everyone, and there are certain contraindications to consider before using it. Contraindications are specific situations or conditions in which the use of Duphalac is not recommended due to potential risks or adverse effects.

Known hypersensitivity or allergy: Duphalac syrup should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Duphalac or any of the ingredients present in the formulation. Allergic reactions to Duphalac can range from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions, although they are relatively rare.

Galactosemia: Duphalac syrup contains Duphalac, which is a synthetic disaccharide composed of galactose and fructose. Individuals with a rare genetic disorder called galactosemia cannot metabolize galactose properly. Therefore, Duphalac syrup is contraindicated in individuals with galactosemia.

Bowel obstruction: Duphalac syrup should not be used in individuals with a known or suspected bowel obstruction. Duphalac works by increasing the water content and volume of stools, and if there is a physical blockage in the bowel, it can worsen the condition or lead to complications.

Intestinal perforation: Duphalac syrup should be avoided in individuals with a history of intestinal perforation or those at risk of developing it. Intestinal perforation is a serious condition characterized by a hole or tear in the wall of the intestine, and the use of Duphalac syrup can potentially exacerbate this condition.

Duphalac Syrup Dose for the Treatment of Constipation:

• Adults: 15-30 ml (10-20 g) of syrup once daily.
  The dosage can be adjusted based on the individual’s response and bowel movements.
  The maximum daily dose should not exceed 45ml (30g) unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.
• Children: The dosage for children should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the child’s age and condition.
  Pediatric dosages are typically lower and can vary depending on the child’s age, weight, and response to treatment.

Duphalac Syrup Dose for the Management of Hepatic Encephalopathy:

• The dosage of lactulose syrup for hepatic encephalopathy is individualized and should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response. The goal is to achieve soft stools and reduce the levels of ammonia in the blood.

Duphalac is not digested or absorbed in the small intestine. It remains intact and undergoes fermentation by the bacteria in the colon. During fermentation, Duphalac is metabolized into various organic acids, primarily lactic acid and acetic acid. These acids lower the pH in the colon, which increases the osmotic pressure and draws water into the colon. The increased water content softens the stool, adds bulk to it, and promotes regular bowel movements. This osmotic effect helps alleviate constipation.