Laxative Comparison Tool
Comparison Results
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About Duphalac
Duphalac contains lactulose, an osmotic laxative used for chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. It works by drawing water into the colon and softening stool. Typical adult dose is 15-30 mL once daily.
When looking for a constipation remedy, Duphalac is a liquid laxative that contains lactulose, approved for chronic constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. It works by drawing water into the colon and softening stool, offering a gentle, osmotic effect.
What is Duphalac (Lactulose)?
Duphalacâs active ingredient is lactulose, a synthetic disaccharide that isnât absorbed in the small intestine. Because it stays in the gut, it ferments into shortâchain fatty acids, pulling water into the lumen and increasing stool bulk. The typical adult dose for constipation is 15-30mL once daily, but dosage can be adjusted based on response and tolerance.
How does Duphalac differ from other laxatives?
Most overâtheâcounter laxatives fall into two big families: osmotic agents that retain water in the bowel, and stimulant agents that trigger bowel muscle contractions. Duphalac belongs to the osmotic class, similar to Polyethylene glycol 3350 (often sold as Miralax) and magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia). Stimulant options include senna and bisacodyl. Each class has a distinct onset time, sideâeffect profile, and ideal use case.
Key criteria to compare laxatives
- Mechanism of action: osmotic vs stimulant vs bulkâforming.
- Onset of relief - how quickly the product works.
- Typical dosage and ease of administration.
- Common side effects, especially abdominal cramping or electrolyte shifts.
- Special populations - children, elderly, patients with renal or liver disease.
- Cost and availability without a prescription.
Sideâbyâside comparison
| Laxative | Type | Typical Dose | Onset (hrs) | Common Side Effects | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duphalac (lactulose) | Osmotic | 15-30mL daily | 24-48 | Flatulence, mild cramping | Gentle, daily use; patients with liver disease |
| Miralax (PEG3350) | Osmotic | 17g (â1Tbsp) dissolved in liquid daily | 24-72 | Bloating, rare electrolyte imbalance | Longâterm constipation management, easy to mask in drinks |
| Senna | Stimulant | 17-34mg (1-2 tablets) daily | 6-12 | Abdominal cramps, urgency | Occasional relief, when rapid effect needed |
| Bisacodyl | Stimulant | 5-10mg oral or 10mg rectal | 6-12 (oral), 15-30 (rectal) | Cramps, possible electrolyte loss | Quick bowel prep, occasional constipation |
| Magnesium hydroxide | Osmotic | 5-15mL (liquid) or 2-4Â tsp (powder) daily | 12-24 | Gas, rare hypermagnesemia in renal failure | Patients who need a quick, inexpensive option |
| Glycerin suppository | Rectal osmotic | One 2-4g suppository as needed | 0.5-2 | Local irritation, rare anal soreness | Immediate relief for hard stool or hemorrhoid patients |
Which laxative fits your situation?
Duphalac shines when you need a gentle, daily regimen that wonât cause strong cramps. Itâs also the goâto for patients with hepatic encephalopathy because lactulose lowers ammonia levels. If you want faster action-say, youâre preparing for a procedure-stimulants like senna or bisacodyl provide results within hours. For those who dislike syrups, PEG3350 powders blend well into drinks and have a neutral taste, making them popular for children and adults alike.
Cost matters, too. Duphalac often requires a prescription in the U.S., which can add to the price, whereas overâtheâcounter options like magnesium hydroxide or glycerin suppositories are budgetâfriendly. However, the low price can come with a higher likelihood of side effects like bloating.
Safety, dosing tips, and red flags
- Start with the lowest effective dose; increase only if stools remain hard after a week.
- Drink plenty of water-at least 8cups daily-to support the osmotic effect and prevent dehydration.
- Watch for severe abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, or electrolyte disturbances; these may signal overâdosage.
- Patients with severe renal impairment should avoid magnesiumâbased laxatives because of the risk of hypermagnesemia.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to cramping; a slowerâacting osmotic like Duphalac can be gentler.
Practical usage tips
- Measure liquid doses with the provided syringe or a marked cup for accuracy.
- Mix Duphalac with a small amount of juice or water if the taste is unpleasant; the drugâs efficacy isnât affected.
- Take the dose at the same time each day to build a routine.
- If using PEG3350, dissolve fully to avoid gritty texture that can discourage compliance.
- For stimulant laxatives, limit use to no more than three consecutive days to prevent dependence.
Bottom line
Choosing a laxative is less about âbest overallâ and more about matching the drugâs profile to your health status, speed needed, and tolerance for side effects. Duphalac offers a predictable, mild action ideal for chronic use and liver patients, while alternatives fill the gaps for rapid relief, cost constraints, or personal preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Duphalac for occasional constipation?
Yes, but itâs designed for regular, daily use. For occasional bouts, a shortâacting stimulant like senna may be more practical.
Is Duphalac safe for children?
Pediatric dosing is lower-typically 5mL twice daily for children 6â18months, and 10mL twice daily for older kids. Always follow a pediatricianâs guidance.
How does Duphalac help with hepatic encephalopathy?
Lactulose acidifies the colon, converting ammoniaâproducing bacteria into less toxic forms and trapping ammonia in the stool, thereby lowering blood ammonia levels.
What should I do if I experience severe cramping?
Reduce the dose or switch to a milder osmotic laxative like PEG3350. If cramping persists, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions.
Can I combine Duphalac with other laxatives?
Combining two osmotic agents can cause excess water loss and electrolyte imbalance. If a stronger effect is needed, doctors may add a shortâterm stimulant under supervision.
Comments
Lily Saeli
October 4, 2025Choosing a laxative is a moral choice about how we treat our bodies.
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