*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

About Lactulose

Lactulose is a laxative taken to treat constipation (difficulty pooing).

It's also taken to help a condition caused by severe liver disease called hepatic encephalopathy.

Lactulose comes as a sweet syrup that you swallow.

It's available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies.

Key facts

Lactulose relieves constipation by drawing water into your bowel to make poo softer.
The most common side effects are diarrhoea, bloating and wind. These are usually mild and do not last long.
Lactulose takes at least 2 days to work. Talk to your doctor if your constipation has not improved after 4 or 5 days.
If you find the taste of lactulose too sweet, you can dilute it with fruit juice or water.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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