Duphalac Syrup: Usage, Side-Effects, Dose, Price & FAQs

June 3, 2022

Duphalac syrup is an oral solution, as the name entails, and it is used in the treatment of constipation it also encourages normal bowel movement. It is known as a laxative but has to be taken in moderation so as to avoid adverse effects. In this article, we will look at how this syrup is used, what it does, and the side effects that are possible.

Table of Contents

Duphalac Syrup Uses

Duphalac syrup has lactulose, which makes up the main Duphalac syrup composition, and is an ingredient that helps to treat constipation. It also increases the frequency of how many days the bowel movement takes place, as well as the frequency of it happening in a day. This is done by increasing the content of water in the intestines, resulting in softening of the stool. This is a syrup that does not get absorbed into the person’s body.

Lactulose is an ingredient that is a sugar, but it is a synthetic man-made sugar. What it does is that it breaks down in the large intestine, after which it will draw water in the intestine. And as mentioned, this softens stool and greatly helps with constipation.

Another one of Duphalac syrup uses comes from the fact that lactulose is used in treating high ammonia levels in the blood that can occur because of liver disease. Higher levels of ammonia could lead to what is known as portal-systemic encephalopathy. This drug draws ammonia into the large intestine from the bloodstream. And then, ammonia is removed from the body through the stool.

Duphalac Syrup Dose

Duphalac syrup is an oral solution that can be swallowed and is sweet in taste. It can be taken with food or even without. You can even take the syrup mixed with water or fruit juice if you’d like. However, it is important to drink a lot of water during the day when taking the syrup. It can take about 12 hours to 2-3 days to start working. When it comes to Duphalac syrup dose, it differs based on age and the cause for taking it.

The Duphalac syrup dosage for adults, when it comes to constipation, is 15-45ml a day for the initial dose, while it is 15-30ml a day for a maintenance dose. When it comes to postal-systemic encephalopathy, the Duphalac syrup dosage for adults is 30-45ml, about three to four times a day.

As mentioned, the main Duphalac syrup composition is lactulose, which is a laxative. This means that while it is safe to have Duphalac syrup used for children, it should be given only under medical supervision and no other way.

Duphalac syrup usage for children; the dosage depends on age. For infants under one year, the initial dose that is to be given for the first three days is 5 ml a day, and this is to be continued for the maintenance dose as well. For children between the ages of 1 to 6, the initial dose and the maintenance dose is to be 5-10ml a day. For children between the ages of 7 to 14, the initial dose is 15ml a day, and the maintenance dose is 10-15ml a day.

Duphalac Syrup side effects

As this syrup is a laxative, there are some side effects that one should be careful about before taking it. Duphalac syrup side effects are a reason why doctors should be consulted before taking it, especially for young children. Duphalac is a syrup that should not be taken if you have certain pre-existing conditions.

Most people do not experience any side effects from the usage of this syrup, however, it is good to be aware of any possible side effects, even if the chances of severe ones occurring are rare.

The normal side effects are cramps, nausea, pain or rumbling in the stomach, burping, bloating, and acidity. However, if these get worse or persist, it is important to go to a doctor.

It is also important to speak to your doctor about any other medication you’re taking or medical conditions you may have. This is to ensure the interaction does not cause problems and so that Duphalac does not worsen any other condition.

Contact your doctor immediately if there are any other serious symptoms that may occur like rectal bleeding, bloody stools, seizures, irregular heartbeat, persistent or severe abdominal or stomach pain, changes in the mood, muscle cramps, vomiting, weakness, diarrhoea, and such. The chances of this happening are unlikely, but if it does happen, go to a doctor promptly.

Another side effect that is highly unlikely is a severe allergic reaction. As mentioned before as well, if it does happen, contact a doctor as soon as you can. The symptoms include trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rashes, and swelling or itching, especially on the throat, tongue, or face.

Duphalac syrup cost

The Duphalac syrup cost differs based on the quantity that you are getting. However, you may find cheaper options online, but make sure you buy online only from trusted sites, even if the site is pharmaceutical. The general costs are:

Duphalac Syrup 60ml is for ₹50
Duphalac Syrup 150ml is for ₹162.22
Duphalac Syrup 250ml is for ₹ 270.37
Duphalac Syrup 450ml is for ₹486.67

Conclusion

Duphalac Syrup is a solution that is lemon flavoured, sweet and is to be taken orally. It is made of lactulose that is a synthetic sugar that is a laxative. It generally helps with constipation but can also help with postal-systemic encephalopathy. While this syrup helps in softening stool and improving bowel movement, it can also help in the removal of excess ammonia from the blood.

As it is a laxative, it should be taken in moderation and under medical supervision and consultation, especially for young children. This is also to handle side effects.

FAQs

1. What is the use of Duphalac syrup?

Duphalac oral solution is used to wase constipation because it causes softening of stool and can help in drawing out ammonia from the body as well.

2. Is Duphalac safe to take every day?

It is not safe to take Duphalac every day. It should be taken as long as constipation subsides or till the timeframe given by the doctor, but no longer.

3. Is Duphalac good for constipation?

Duphalac is excellent for constipation as the main ingredient is lactulose which is a laxative. But it should be taken in moderation.

4. Does Duphalac cause gas?

Duphalac does cause gas and bloating as a side-effect, so it should be avoided by those that have IBS.

5. Can I take Duphalac on an empty stomach?

Duphalac can be taken on an empty stomach or after having eaten, as that makes no difference in its effectiveness.

6. Does Duphalac cause weight gain?

Duphalac does not cause weight gain and may, in fact, facilitate weight loss in some ways as it is a laxative.

7. How much Duphalac syrup should I take?

The dosage of Duphalac depends on age and other factors. For constipation, adults can take 15-45ml as the initial dose and 15-30 ml as the maintenance dose. The dose is higher with postal-systemic encephalopathy. The dose is less with children, and this is to be determined by the doctors alone and is to be taken in moderation.