Duphalac

Syrup · Abbott
USUALLY SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Duphalac is a syrup made by Abbott that contains Lactulose. Lactulose is a osmotic laxative: draws water into the gut to soften stools; also used in liver disease.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Lactulosesee pack

What it is used for

Draws water into the gut to soften stools; also used in liver disease.

How it works

A sugar the body cannot absorb. It draws water into the bowel to soften stools, and in liver disease it reduces ammonia absorbed from the gut.

How to take it

Usually 15 ml twice a day for constipation; it can take 2 to 3 days to work. Liver doses are higher and set by the doctor.

Common side effects

  • Wind
  • Bloating
  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhoea at high doses

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe diarrhoea with dizziness
  • Confusion in people with liver disease

Be careful

Can cause gas and bloating at first.

Other medicines and interactions

No important interactions.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Common questions

What is Duphalac?

Duphalac is a syrup by Abbott containing Lactulose.

What is Duphalac used for?

Draws water into the gut to soften stools; also used in liver disease.

How should I take Duphalac?

Usually 15 ml twice a day for constipation; it can take 2 to 3 days to work. Liver doses are higher and set by the doctor. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Duphalac?

Common side effects include: Wind, bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhoea at high doses. Get medical help straight away for: Severe diarrhoea with dizziness, confusion in people with liver disease.

Does Duphalac need a prescription?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Can I take Duphalac in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Duphalac?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.