Mum taken off Lactulose

[Toffegirl]

Hi All, just a quick question. My mum has recently been diagnosed with ARLD. She has been taken off the Lactulose. I was understanding that she would be on it for the foreseeable.

[AyrshireK]

Without lactulose and regular toileting (3-4 times daily is optimum) there is the potential for toxins to build up leading to Hepatic Encephalopathy. Whilst the side effects of lactulose can be pretty full on it is still better than HE. Ideally she should be on a combination of both lactulose and Rifaximin - another medicine used to treat toxins and prevent HE.

Katie

[Toffegirl in reply to AyrshireK]

I will check to see if she if on the Rifaximin

[200987 in reply to Toffegirl]

I have cirrhosis and absolutely need high doses of lactulose as without my bowels fall silent and don’t move for days on end. Something that is potentially very serious. I would check that she is able to go to the toilet regularly on her own.

[AB007 in reply to AyrshireK]

My dad has started being sick a lot, everytime its orange in colour. Is it possible that the rifaximin is making him sick?

[AyrshireK in reply to AB007]

I've no idea sadly, one to check with his doctors. My hubby has been on lactulose since 2012 and Rifaximin since 2014 without issue. Rifaximin is an antibiotic though so if perhaps Dad has an intolerance it might be an issue - needs checking out.

Katie

[Toffegirl in reply to AyrshireK]

I checked her meds last night and they have I creased her water tablets. So maybe that’s why she’s had been taken off the lactulose

[AyrshireK in reply to Toffegirl]

Not sure on that one, both do totally different jobs.

[Toffegirl in reply to AyrshireK]

Doesn’t both get rid of ammonia

[AyrshireK in reply to Toffegirl]

The diuretics are to prevent fluid build up (ascites) and the lactulose is to remove toxins via stools - as well as making you go more it also has a special property which fixes and removes toxins via stools so whilst you obviously do pee out ammonia that isn't really what the diuretics are for so as I say they are for totally different jobs.

katie

[Hidden]

Good morning Toffegirl,

May I suggest you contact your mums GP or liver specialist to clarify and explain your mums medication.

It is much easier to take/ administer medication if you understand their purpose.

Everyone is an individual and it is essential you and your mum understand the treatment plan.

Take care,

Trust9