Dr Anjum Mujawar MBBS, MBBS , Emergency Medicine

Older people frequently suffer from constipation. The osmotic laxatives like Lactusafe find a place in their therapy, however, some of the side effects associated with these agents are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and flatulence. These side effects are present because Lactusafe is converted to carboxylic acids like acetic acid, lactic acid and formic acid by the intestinal bacteria. Further, the patients may also develop a disliking to the sweet taste of the Lactusafe. 

Dr. Gaurav MBBS , General Physician

No, it is not recommended that you use Lactusafe with other laxatives as this might lead to diarrhea and hence, severe dehydration. It is also recommended that you talk to your doctor before taking any other laxative. 

Dr. Uday Nath Sahoo MBBS , Internal Medicine

Constipation: Lactusafe is non-digestible in human beings because of which, it passes as it is into the large intestine. The resident bacteria in the intestine act on it to convert it into lactic acid, acetic acid, and formic acid, drawing fluid into the stool and thus softening it. This makes it easier to pass the stool, and thus helps in relieving constipation.

Hepatic encephalopathy: In the event of liver failure, ammonia detoxification is difficult. If the level of ammonia in the bloodstream increases, it can reach the brain and damage it. Thus it is important to get rid of the excess ammonia. Lactusafe pulls ammonia from the bloodstream and helps in discharging it via the stool, thus preventing brain damage.

Dr. Suhas Bhargav MBBS , General Physician

Lactusafe is available in the form of liquid to be taken orally. For the management of constipation, it is usually, taken once a day and for the management of a liver disease, it is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day. It is important to take the quantity exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Taking higher or the lower dose may have an adverse effect, therefore, one should always be compliant with the prescription label or doctor's recommendation.

Dr. Piyush Malav MBBS, MS , General Surgery

You might have to take Lactusafe for as long as constipation or hepatic encephalopathy lasts. For constipation, your doctor might prescribe it for a week. For hepatic encephalopathy, your doctor might prescribe it for several months. It is extremely important that you take Lactusafe for as long as it is prescribed your doctor.