skip to main content

Lactulose in hepatic encephalopathy — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRenal and Hepatic ImpairmentLactulose in hepatic encephalopathyGPhC CRA

A patient with previous hepatic encephalopathy takes lactulose 45 mL three times daily and now has six watery stools daily, thirst and postural dizziness. What is the best response?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: EArrange clinical review and dose reduction toward two or three soft stools while assessing dehydration

Option E preserves encephalopathy prevention while responding to excessive treatment: the target is two or three soft stools, and watery diarrhoea with dizziness requires dehydration and electrolyte assessment. Option B exceeds the therapeutic target. Option C combines opposing drugs and worsens fluid risk. Option D abandons recurrence prevention permanently. Option A assumes a non-equivalent laxative has the same ammonia-lowering role.

Reference: Duphalac SmPC: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5525/smpc