Oral Lactulose – A Safe and Effective Strategy for the Management of Constipation in Individuals with Impaired Glucose Tolerance and Diabetes

Lactulose, either as crystals or liquid syrup, is a frequently prescribed osmotic laxative agent in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). During the manufacturing process, carbohydrate impurities can arise which could increase blood glucose levels with a possible impact on glycemic control. This important issue has now been addressed for the first time in individuals with type 2 DM. A recent RCT confirmed that there is no need to consider carbohydrate impurities in oral lactulose products administered at the recommended doses of 20 g/day and 30 g/day for blood glucose management.