Final answer:
Cephulac (lactulose) is prescribed to lower blood ammonia levels, especially in liver disorders such as cirrhosis. It helps treat hepatic encephalopathy by converting ammonia to ammonium, which is then excreted in feces.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cephulac (lactulose) is a medication that is primarily prescribed to lower ammonia levels in the blood, specifically in patients with liver conditions such as cirrhosis. This reduction in ammonia is crucial because ammonia is a toxic substance that can affect brain function when present in high levels, a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy. The liver normally converts ammonia into urea, which is then excreted by the kidneys. However, in liver disorders such as cirrhosis, this conversion process is impaired, leading to the accumulation of ammonia.
Lactulose works by modifying the pH in the intestines to favor the growth of bacteria that consume ammonia, as well as by converting ammonia into ammonium, which is not absorbed by the intestines and is excreted in feces. As a result, blood ammonia levels decrease, which helps to prevent or treat hepatic encephalopathy. This is important for maintaining neurological health in patients with liver dysfunction.
The other options listed in the question such as the effect on blood glucose, uric acid, or creatinine are not the primary purposes for administering Cephulac. While liver dysfunctions can impact many substances in the body, Cephulac (lactulose) is given to lower blood ammonia levels. It aids in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy by promoting the excretion of ammonia in the feces.