Both Duphalac and Picolax are used to treat constipation, but they differ in the active ingredients they contain, their mechanism of action, and the time it takes for the effect to appear. Understanding these differences helps determine the most appropriate medication for constipation relief.

Duphalac Syrup Ingredients

Duphalac Syrup contains the active ingredient lactulose. Lactulose is a synthetic sugar that is not absorbed by the body. It acts as an osmotic laxative by increasing the amount of water in the large intestine, making stool softer and easier to pass. It also helps treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing the production and absorption of ammonia in the intestine.

Picolax Syrup Ingredients

Picolax Syrup contains the active ingredient sodium picosulfate. Sodium picosulfate is a stimulant laxative. It works by stimulating intestinal movement (peristalsis), which helps push stool out of the body. It is activated in the large intestine by intestinal bacteria.

Information about Duphalac Syrup

Drug Class: Osmotic Laxatives

Drug Classification: Sugars

Pharmaceutical Form: Syrup

Pharmaceutical Family: Gastrointestinal Drugs

Active Ingredient: Lactulose

Information about Picolax Syrup

Drug Class: Stimulant Laxatives

Drug Classification: Dihydroxyanthracene Derivatives

Pharmaceutical Form: Syrup

Pharmaceutical Family: Gastrointestinal Drugs

Active Ingredient: Sodium Picosulfate

Author Name: Pharmacist Rawan Mossad Elsaed

Scientific Degree: Pharmacist

Country: Egypt

Dr. Rawan Mosaad El-Saeed is a clinical pharmacist and medical content reviewer holding a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Horus University in Egypt. She has hands-on community pharmacy experience in providing medication therapy counseling, monitoring drug-drug interactions, and ensuring patient adherence to safe usage protocols. She specializes in authoring and fact-checking pharmaceutical guides and simplifying clinical pharmacology based on the latest evidence-based guidelines and internationally accredited references, dedicated to delivering accurate, reliable, and safe healthcare information for readers.

Published Date: 19 April 2025