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Chronic Care Diarrhea Constulose
Chronic Care Diarrhea Constulose

Constulose (lactulose) prescription available online

If you are suffering from constipation, Constulose (lactulose) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Constulose today from a board-certified doctor online.*

Helps relieve constipation and discomfort Same-day appointments to evaluate constipation symptoms Save up to 66.33% on Constulose with RX discount card*
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*Prescriptions are provided at the primary care doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of constipation. If that is the case, our doctors will guide you toward resources and referrals for in-person and specialist care to receive diagnosis and treatment safely.

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About Constulose (lactulose)

Constulose is considered a laxative, which helps increase the number of normal bowel movements per day and the number of days you have a bowel movement.

 

Constulose is used to treat chronic constipation. In critical care settings like hospitals, it can also be started to help treat or prevent brain dysfunction caused by liver disease. Constulose is available only by prescription and is available in a generic formulation called lactulose.

 

Constulose may be prescribed as an oral solution. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

 

If you're prescribed Constulose, be sure to complete the full course of the laxative unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the laxative may not fully treat your chronic constipation.

Constulose uses

There are several FDA-approved uses for Constulose, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor.

Chronic constipation

Constulose is FDA-approved to treat chronic constipation. Lactulose solution helps increase the number of bowel movements per day and the number of days that you have a normal bowel movement. It is generally considered an option only for severe constipation, as there may be other options that are better suited for long-term use.

Hepatic encephalopathy

Constulose is FDA-approved to treat hepatic encephalopathy, a condition where the liver does not remove toxins from the body. Lactulose may help decrease toxins in the blood, which helps reduce symptoms. This condition will be diagnosed & treated in a hospital setting.

What are the pros and cons?

Pros

One Two Three

Cons

  • One
  • Two

Constulose side effects

The side effects associated with taking Constulose are typically mild. Most Constulose side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Constulose has some common side effects. They may include:
Stomach pain, bloating, or gas
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea

Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

Irregular heartbeat
Electrolyte imbalance
Seizures
Persistent and severe diarrhea

You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Lactulose solution shouldn't be given to children under 14 years of age unless your doctor recommends it.

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How to take Constulose

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Constulose prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

 

Constulose can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The starting dose of lactulose is typically 15 mL orally taken once daily for acute or chronic constipation. For hepatic encephalopathy, the starting dose is typically 30 mL orally taken three times a day.

 

If the initial dose produces diarrhea, tell your doctor. Your doctor may need to decrease your oral dosage.

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What to avoid while taking Constulose

Constulose has many possible drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

Possible drug interactions with lactulose include:

  • Cymbalta (duloxetine)

  • Lasix (furosemide)

  • Lipitor (atorvastatin)

  • Tylenol (acetaminophen)

  • Synthroid (levothyroxine)


Ask your doctor for medical advice before drinking alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to an increased risk of persistent and severe diarrhea.

 

 

What to avoid

Medication alternatives to Constulose

If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest another laxative in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Chronic constipation

Dulcolax (bisacodyl)
Lubiprostone (Amitiza)
Plecanatide (Trulance)

Hepatic encephalopathy

Xifaxan (rifaximin)
Neomycin
Constilac (lactulose)

Constulose prescription FAQs

How much does Constulose cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, brand name Constulose oral solution (10 g/15 mL) costs around $15 for 237 mL without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as lactulose, offer an affordable alternative.

How can I refill my Constulose prescription?

To refill your Constulose prescription, book a virtual appointment with one of our top-rated board-certified doctors. After reviewing your symptoms and ensuring you qualify, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.

How long does it take Constulose to work?

It may take up to 48 hours to have a normal bowel movement after your oral dose.

Who should not take Constulose?

To make sure lactulose is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • Diabetes

  • If you're on a special low-galactose diet

  • If you need intestinal tests using a scope, such as a colonoscopy

 

Diabetes mellitus patients should ask their doctor for medical advice before taking lactulose. Lactulose may be high in fat and carbs, and you'll need to work with your doctor to find an adequate lactulose dosage.

Should you drink water after taking Constulose?

Yes, you should drink plenty of water after taking Constulose oral doses to prevent dehydration.

How many hours does Constulose take effect?

After taking an oral dose, Constulose takes between 24 and 48 hours to take effect.

What happens if I miss a dose of Constulose?

If you miss a dose of Constulose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much Constulose?

If you've taken too much Constulose, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

3 simple steps to request your Constulose prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a Constulose prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Constulose prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your Constulose prescription, if provided.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
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How to talk to your doctor about Constulose (lactulose)

At Plushcare, our priority is making sure you receive the information and advice you need when making decisions about your health and wellness. Our board-certified doctors are here to help you every step of the way, focusing on genuine patient connection to help you feel confident and secure in your treatment journey.

 

The following are some questions to ask your doctor about Constulose and constipation treatments:

 

  • When should I become concerned about my constipation?

  • Are there any changes to my diet that I should make while on Constulose?

  • What should I do if I experience unwanted side effects?

  • If this medication doesn’t work for me, what other treatment options can we try?

  • Are there other fiber supplements or probiotics that might help with my symptoms?

  • Will any of my current medications negatively interact with Constulose?

  • How will we track my treatment for chronic constipation or Hepatic encephalopathy?

  • When should I schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss treatment results?

Constulose prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Constulose prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

+

Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Constulose prescription resources

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.