Reevac Solution

LACTULOSE is aA disaccharideA formed from one molecule each of theA simple sugarsA (monosaccharides)A fructoseA andA galactose
Lactulose is not absorbed in theA small intestineA nor broken down by human enzymes, thus stays in the digestive bolus through most of its course, causing retention of water throughA osmosisA leading to softer, easier-to-pass stool. It has a secondary laxative effect in the colon, where it isA fermentedA by theA gut flora, producingA metabolitesA that have osmotic powers andA peristalsis-stimulating effects (such asA acetate), but alsoA methaneA associated withA flatulence.
Lactulose is metabolized in theA colonA byA bacterial floraA to short-chain fatty acids, includingA lactic acidA andA acetic acid. These partially dissociate, acidifying the colonic contents (increasing the H+A concentration in the gut)
This favors the formation of the nonabsorbableA NH+4A from NH3, trapping NH3A in the colon and effectively reducing plasma NH3concentrations. Lactulose is therefore effective in treating hepatic encephalopathy
Specifically, it is effective as secondary prevention of hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis.