Lactitol (By mouth)

Lactitol (LAK-ti-tol)

Treats chronic idiopathic (unknown cause) constipation.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to lactitol, or if you have stomach or bowel blockage or a rare metabolism disorder called galactosemia.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
  • It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
  • To use:
    • Multi-dose bottle: Measure the dose by using the bottle top or measuring cap that is marked to 10 grams of powder when filled to the top of white section in the cap marked by the arrow. Pour the measured dose into an empty 8-ounce (oz) glass.
    • Unit-dose packets: Pour the contents of 1 or 2 unit-dose packets into an empty 8-ounce (oz) glass.
    • Add 4 ounces to 8 ounces of water, juice, or any kind of drink (eg, coffee, tea, soda) to the glass containing the powder.
    • Stir thoroughly to dissolve the powder and drink the entire contents of the glass.
  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • If you are taking other medicines by mouth, take them at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking lactitol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other stomach or bowel problems.
  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Bloated or full feeling, gas
  • Persistent loose stools

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Cough, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.

All rights reserved

A.D.A.M. content is best viewed in IE9 or above, Firefox and chrome browser.