Anyone with liver cancer taking lactulose for ammonia levels?

Posted by cburris @cburris, Jan 20 5:33pm

My husband has 4th stage liver cancer. He was becoming confused.
Determined his ammonia level was elevated and he is taking lactulose to promote 2-3 daily bowel movements, this has help tremendously.
Was wondering if any other liver cancer patients are having problems with this?

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parrot53 | @parrot53 | Jan 23 6:55am

Good Day,
I am sorry to hear your husband has stage four liver cancer. Here is some more information on lactulose.
https://www.healthline.com/health/lactulose-for-cirrhosis
It is used to help clear the ammonia that builds up in the brain which causes hepatic encephalopathy. You can look up more information here on that to get an understanding of what is happening and why.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hepatic-encephalopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20583828
Wishing you the best outcome possible.

richinbh2026 | @richinbh2026 | Jan 27 4:00pm

Undergoing treatment with Lactulose- it is tough to sort out dose, and timing to avoid trouble with frequent loose stools. Lots of gas as well. Good luck with your husband and caretaking.

bischoffm | @bischoffm | Jan 28 10:00am

I had the same issue with my liver failure. The doctors recommended Rifaximin (brand name Xifaxan. This drug is very expensive but insurance covered all but $30. This drug worked great but doesn’t eliminate lactilose. But it was night and day difference.
Good luck