Wrong Idea, Good Results (the Lactulose Story)

The use of lactulose in the treatment of chronic portal–systemic encephalopathy of patients with cirrhosis of the liver was introduced in 1966.1 The apparent efficacy of the treatment is confirmed by the report in the present issue of the Journal, by our own further experiences, and by reports from other parts of the world now totaling about 70 cases. Most studies are unpublished and will be presented at a symposium on lactulose in Baden, Austria, on September 8, 1969.The story behind the introduction of lactulose into liver therapy is an illustration of an achievement based on an erroneous . . .