Top Lactulose Brands: A Sweet Solution for Gut Health

Lactulose is a popular remedy for managing constipation and hepatic encephalopathy, and several reputable brands offer this effective treatment in various forms. Selecting the right brand can make a difference in the efficacy and tolerability of the medication for individual needs. Some of the top brands known for their quality lactulose solutions include Duphalac, Enulose, and Kristalose, each providing distinct formulations that suit different preferences. To explore a comprehensive list of the best lactulose brands and see which might be ideal for you, read on below.

Illustration of lactulose

Best brands of lactulose in 2025

Duphalac

Duphalac, a brand by Abbott, is a leading producer of lactulose, widely recognized for its effective treatment of constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. Each 15 mL of Duphalac contains 10 g of lactulose, making it a potent solution for increasing stool bulk and water in the bowel. The product is available in various volumes, including 200 mL and 500 mL bottles, and is suitable for use by pregnant women and newborns. Duphalac's formulation adheres to stringent pharmaceutical standards, including those of the US Pharmacopoeia and European Pharmacopoeia. Its global distribution, particularly in emerging markets, contributes significantly to the growth of the lactulose market.

Generlac

Generlac, a brand of lactulose solution, is renowned for its efficacy in treating constipation and portal-systemic encephalopathy, a complication of severe liver disease. Each 15 mL of Generlac Solution contains 10 g of lactulose, with less than 1.6 g of galactose and 1.2 g of lactose, making it a carefully formulated product. The solution is freely soluble in water and has a pH range between 2.5 and 6.5, ensuring optimal performance. First synthesized in 1929 and clinically used since the 1960s, lactulose has a well-established history of safety and effectiveness. Generlac Solution is available in various container sizes, including 1 pint and 2 quart bottles, making it a versatile option for different patient needs. For more detailed information, visit the official Generlac drug information page.

Enulose

Enulose, a brand of lactulose, is a highly effective synthetic disaccharide used for treating constipation and portal-systemic encephalopathy. It is administered orally or rectally, with a typical adult dosage of 2 to 3 tablespoonfuls (30 to 45 ml, containing 20 g to 30 g of lactulose) three or four times daily. Enulose has been shown to reduce blood ammonia levels by 25 to 50%, improving mental state and EEG patterns in about 75% of patients. It was first clinically used for treating portal-systemic encephalopathy in 1966 and has been a staple in medical treatment since. Enulose is freely soluble in water and has a molecular weight of 342.30. For more detailed information on Enulose, visit the dosage guidelines page.

Lactul

Lactul, a prominent brand in the lactulose market, is recognized for its high-quality production of this non-absorbable sugar. The global lactulose market, which was valued at around $148 million in 2016, is expected to grow, with companies like Lactul contributing significantly to this expansion. Lactulose production involves the alkaline isomerization of lactose, with conversion rates typically ranging between 35-45%. This process is crucial for producing lactulose, which is used in treating constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. By 2030, the market is forecasted to reach $217.4 million, indicating a strong demand for products like those from Lactul. For more details on their lactulose products, visit their official website.

Kristalose

Kristalose, a brand of lactulose from Cumberland Pharmaceuticals, is highly preferred by patients with chronic constipation due to its superior taste, consistency, and portability. In a study published in 2010, 77% more patients preferred Kristalose over liquid lactulose, with significant preferences for its taste (44% more) and consistency (57% more). Kristalose is available in pre-measured powder packets, making it a convenient and virtually taste-free alternative to liquid lactulose syrups. This formulation enhances patient compliance and does not show a significant difference in adverse events compared to liquid lactulose. Kristalose is indicated for the treatment of acute and chronic constipation, with no restrictions on length of therapy or patient age. For more detailed information, please visit the Kristalose product page.

Alactol

Alactol, a renowned brand in the pharmaceutical industry, is esteemed for its high-quality lactulose production. Lactulose, synthesized through alkaline isomerization of lactose or enzymatic methods, is a crucial ingredient in various medical formulations, particularly for treating constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. Alactol's lactulose is manufactured with precision, ensuring a purity of at least 90% as per industry standards. The production process involves heating an alkaline aqueous solution of lactose and borax above 80°C, followed by purification and drying to achieve a free-flowing, weakly hygroscopic powder. This meticulous process ensures the product meets stringent quality criteria, making Alactol a trusted name in the market.

Actilax

Actilax, a brand by Actavis Mid Atlantic, is renowned for its high-quality lactulose solution, which is a synthetic disaccharide composed of galactose and fructose. Each 15 mL of Actilax lactulose solution contains 10 g of lactulose, less than 1.6 g of galactose, and other minor components. This medication is effective for treating constipation and hepatic encephalopathy, with clinical responses observed in about 75% of patients, and it reduces blood ammonia levels by 25 to 50%. Actilax lactulose is poorly absorbed, with less than 3% reaching the bloodstream, and it is primarily metabolized by colonic bacteria into low molecular weight acids. The product has been used medically since the 1950s and is classified as an osmotic laxative. More information is available on their website: Actilax lactulose solution.

Heptalac

Heptalac is a renowned brand for lactulose, known for its high-quality and effective formulations in treating constipation and hepatic encephalopathy. Lactulose, a non-absorbable sugar, is metabolized by gut flora into organic acids, which helps in trapping ammonia and reducing its absorption into the bloodstream, a crucial mechanism in managing hepatic encephalopathy. Heptalac's lactulose products are characterized by their poor absorption in the small intestine, with less than 3% of the dose being absorbed, ensuring maximum efficacy in the large intestine. The brand has been trusted for decades, with lactulose first approved in the USA in 1982, and it continues to be a standard treatment for these conditions. Heptalac's formulations are designed to provide rapid and sustained relief, with effects typically seen within 8 to 48 hours.

Lacson

Lacson Syrup, produced by Aspen Pharmacare, is a highly effective formulation of lactulose, a disaccharide derivative of lactose, used for the relief of constipation and bloating. Each 5ml of Lacson Syrup contains 3.3g of lactulose, which is metabolized in the colon by saccharolytic bacteria to produce osmotic and peristalsis-stimulating effects. Lactulose, such as that in Lacson Syrup, is not absorbed in the small intestine and remains in the digestive tract, enhancing water retention and stool softening. It is also used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by acidifying the colon and trapping ammonia. Lactulose has been a trusted medication since the 1950s and is listed on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. For more information, you can visit their product page Lacson Syrup.

Lilac

Lilac is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality lactulose syrup, which is a synthetic disaccharide derivative of lactose used to treat constipation and portal systemic encephalopathy. Each 5ml of Lilac lactulose syrup contains 3.35g of lactulose, along with other sugars like galactose and lactose. This formulation promotes laxation and helps in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels in the blood. The product is widely used due to its effectiveness, with clinical use dating back to 1966. It is metabolized by saccharolytic bacteria in the colon, producing organic acids that enhance gut motility and stool softening. For more detailed information, visit the Watsons product page.