freelac (LACTULOSE)

What is Freelac?

Freelac is a medicine that helps with constipation. It helps you poop more often by making your bowel movements softer. The medicine stays in your intestines and doesn't enter your bloodstream.

What is the usual dose of Freelac?

The typical dose for adults is 15-30 mL daily, containing 10-20 g of Freelac. The dose may be increased to 60 mL daily if necessary. For children, specific dosage guidance is not detailed.

How do I take Freelac?

• Dosage: Follow the dose prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once or twice daily.
• With or Without Food: Freelac can be taken with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with meals.
• Food Restrictions: Generally, no specific food restrictions are required. However, maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to aid its effects.
• Other Tips: Avoid overuse as it may cause diarrhea. Contact a doctor if you experience severe side effects.

For how long do I take Freelac?

Use Freelac as directed by your physician. It may be used long-term for chronic constipation, but periodic monitoring is advised for prolonged use.

What is Freelac used for?

Constipation:

• Used to treat chronic or occasional constipation by softening stools and improving bowel movements.

Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE):

• Helps reduce ammonia levels in patients with liver disease to prevent or treat confusion, drowsiness, or coma caused by HE.

Other Possible Uses (off-label):

• Certain bowel disorders requiring stool softening, as determined by a doctor.

How long does it take for Freelac to start working?

Freelac typically takes 24 to 48 hours to produce a bowel movement when used for constipation. For hepatic encephalopathy, its effects may begin within 24 hours but may take longer to fully regulate ammonia levels. Ensure consistent dosing as prescribed for the best results.

Is Freelac effective?

1. Constipation: Clinical trials show Freelac improves stool frequency and consistency within 24–48 hours, making it effective for chronic and acute cases.
2. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Studies confirm Freelac reduces ammonia levels, improves mental status, and prevents HE episodes in liver disease patients.
3. Safety and Tolerability: Proven safe for long-term use, with mild side effects like gas or bloating.

How does one know if Freelac is working?

For Constipation:

• Frequency: Increased regular bowel movements.
• Consistency: Softer stools, easier to pass.
• Relief: Reduced discomfort from constipation symptoms.

For Hepatic Encephalopathy:

• Ammonia Levels: Reduced ammonia in blood tests.
• Cognitive Function: Improved mental clarity and reduced confusion.
• Prevention: Fewer HE episodes.

How does Freelac work?

1. Constipation: Pulls water into the colon, softening stool and promoting bowel movements.
2. Hepatic Encephalopathy: Reduces ammonia in the blood by converting it into a non-toxic form excreted in stool.

Who should avoid taking Freelac?

• Electrolyte Imbalance: Prolonged use or high doses may cause dehydration and imbalances in sodium and potassium.
• Abdominal Issues: Use with caution in patients with gastrointestinal issues like bowel obstruction, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or galactose intolerance.
• Monitor in Liver Disease: Adjust dosage carefully in hepatic encephalopathy patients to avoid overuse.

Contraindications:

• Bowel Obstruction: Should not be used in cases of severe or unknown bowel obstruction.
• Galactosemia: Contraindicated in patients with this rare inherited disorder.

Can I take Freelac with vitamins or supplements?

Electrolyte Supplements:

• Freelac can cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or sodium). If taking supplements like potassium, monitor levels closely.

Magnesium:

• Combining Freelac with magnesium-containing supplements may increase the risk of diarrhea and dehydration.

Vitamins:

• Long-term use may reduce absorption of certain vitamins (e.g., Vitamin K, calcium), especially if it causes diarrhea.

Can I take Freelac with other prescription drugs?

Freelac may interact with diuretics (increasing the risk of electrolyte imbalances), antibiotics (affecting gut bacteria and Freelac’s efficacy in treating hepatic encephalopathy), other laxatives (causing dehydration or excessive diarrhea), and corticosteroids (increasing electrolyte disturbances). Always inform your doctor about other medications to avoid harmful interactions and ensure proper use of Freelac.

Can Freelac be taken safely while pregnant?

Freelac is generally considered safe during pregnancy, as it is not absorbed into the bloodstream and acts locally in the gut. There is no evidence of fetal harm from its use. However, it should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed, and the benefits should be weighed against any potential risks. Always consult a healthcare provider before using Freelac during pregnancy.

Can Freelac be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Freelac is considered safe during lactation. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, so it is unlikely to affect breast milk or harm the baby. However, it's always best to consult a healthcare provider before using any medication while breastfeeding, to ensure it’s appropriate based on individual circumstances.

Is Freelac safe for the elderly?

Elderly patients on Freelac for over six months should have periodic serum electrolyte monitoring to prevent imbalances, their blood needs to be tested regularly to check the levels of potassium, chloride, and carbon dioxide. These tests are important because Freelac can sometimes affect these levels. Also, some antacids can stop Freelac from working properly.

How should I store Freelac?

Freelac should be stored at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Do not freeze it. Keep the medicine away from heat and light. If the medicine turns dark, cloudy, or becomes too thick to pour, do not use it. Always ensure the bottle is tightly closed and store it in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.

Does Freelac make people tired or drowsy?

Fatigue or drowsiness is not listed as a common side effect of Freelac.

Does Freelac cause stomach upset?

Flatulence and cramps are common initially. If severe, reduce the dose or consult a doctor.

Does Freelac affect sleep?

There is no evidence suggesting that Freelac affects sleep.

Does Freelac make it hard to think or concentrate?

Freelac does not commonly cause cognitive effects such as difficulty concentrating.

Does Freelac affect mood?

Mood alterations are not reported as a side effect of Freelac.

Does Freelac interfere with sexual function?

No effects on sexual function are mentioned .

Does Freelac affect appetite?

Appetite changes are not reported as a side effect of Freelac.

Does Freelac cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not associated with Freelac use.

Does Freelac cause headaches?

Freelac usually doesn't cause headaches. The most common problems are gas and stomach cramps at first, and diarrhea if you take too much. Severe diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other problems, so stop taking it if that happens. Some people also get sick to their stomach.

Does Freelac limit driving?

No, Freelac does not impair driving ability.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Freelac?

Interactions with alcohol is not known, but general caution is advised.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Freelac?

Coffee or tea is not contraindicated with Freelac use.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Freelac?

Yes, exercising while taking Freelac is safe unless side effects such as diarrhea cause discomfort. Consult your doctor if symptoms interfere with activity.

What are Freelac possible harms and risks?

Common Side Effects:

• Bloating
• Gas (flatulence)
• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea (with high doses)

Significant Adverse Effects:

• Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance (due to prolonged diarrhea).
• Worsened abdominal pain or bloating.