PORTOLAC ® Lattitol

PORTOLAC ® is a lactitol based drug.

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Laxatives - Osmotic laxative.

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications PORTOLAC ® Lattitol

PORTOLAC ® is indicated in the symptomatic treatment of occasional constipation, and as a prophylaxis or therapy of intestinal diseases following dysbiosis.

Mechanism of action PORTOLAC ® Lattitol

PORTOLAC ® is a drug based on a second generation synthetic disaccharide, known as lactitol. Its particular structure allows this sugar, taken orally, to pass through unchanged both the gastric and intestinal environment, thus reaching the colon. At this level, lactitol is fermented by the local bacterial flora into lactic acid and acetic acid, which - by acidifying the intestinal lumen - cause an increase in the osmotic pressure and a consequent return of water, useful for hydrating the faeces, facilitating their evacuation.

The laxative effect also appears to be associated with a direct action of these acids on the intestinal mucosa, allowing an increase in peristalsis and improving defecatory capacity.

The induction of acid fermentation makes lactitol an important prebiotic substance, able to support the growth of resident intestinal flora, to the detriment of the potentially dangerous putrefactive flora (as in the case of hepatic encephalopathy).

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

LACTITOLUS AND LIVER ENCEPHALOPATHY

Hepatic encephalopathy is a complex pathological condition, also characterized by the increase of ammonia and the consequent symptomatology, particularly dangerous above all in the brain. In the current treatment, a potential strategy is represented by the use of osmotic laxatives, which are effective both in favoring defecation with the related metabolites, and in supporting the growth of the fermentative intestinal flora at the expense of the putrefactive, partly responsible for the production of ammonium.

2. LACTITOL AND LACTOBACILLI FOR INTESTINAL HEALTH

The simultaneous administration of a prebiotic such as lactitol and a probiotic such as the lactobacillus acidophilus, has proved to be particularly useful in improving intestinal health, disinfecting the enteric mucosa, rebalancing the microflora and reducing markers of some inflammatory cytokines. These effects are the basis of the dual role of the intestine "digestive and immune organ".

3.LATTITOLUS AND Diarrhea

One of the most common side effects associated with lactitol consumption is diarrhea, especially when taken with excessive bumps. Estimating the amount of lactitol that can cause this effect is very important to avoid possible side reactions. The currently established dose is 0.25 g / kg for men and 0.34 g / kg for women.

Method of use and dosage

PORTOLAC ® oral powder, 5gr scoops; sachets of 5 and 10 grams of lactitol; soluble lactitol tablets: it is recommended to take 10 - 15 grams of lactitol per day, preferably in the evening before going to bed, dissolved in water or other liquids. The optimization of its laxative effect would be obtained following the addition to the common diet of cooked fruit, yogurt and fibers in general.

It is advisable to start with the lowest possible dosages, possibly increasing the doses in case of reduced efficacy, but without extending the treatment beyond the set times.

Prolonged intake (to be avoided in any case), and possible administration in children, should only take place under strict medical supervision.

Warnings PORTOLAC ® Lattitol

The intake of PORTOLAC ® should be preceded and accompanied by the introduction of appropriate hygiene-food standards, useful for preserving the nutritional integrity of food and the correct dietary intake of fiber. In any case, the absence of absorbable sugars allows the lactitol to be used without too many restrictions, even in the presence of endocrine-metabolic pathologies.

On the other hand, particular attention should be paid to the continued use of laxatives, which is often associated with diarrhea, dehydration, hypokalemia and impaired cardiac function, up to the loss of the laxative efficacy of the drug, intestinal atony and subsequent constipation.

PORTOLAC ® does not affect the ability to drive vehicles and use machinery.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

The particular structure of lactitol does not allow this active ingredient to be absorbed in the intestine, minimizing the potential risks to the health of the fetus.

However, taking PORTOLAC ® during pregnancy and during the subsequent lactation period should only be carried out in cases of real need and under strict medical supervision.

Interactions

The assumption of laxatives should be carried out at least two hours away from that of other drugs, so that the increased intestinal motility does not reduce the absorption profile of the active ingredient taken simultaneously.

The efficacy of PORTOLAC ® can be reduced by the concomitant administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics and antacids, especially if used for its probiotic properties.

Contraindications PORTOLAC ® Lattitol

PORTOLAC ® is contraindicated in case of galactosemia and hypersensitivity to one of its components.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

Although taking PORTOLAC ® is well tolerated, it is possible, especially in the initial phase of treatment, to observe episodes of flatulence and abdominal cramps, which tend to regress promptly following the suspension of therapy.