Swiftolac Syrup is a type of sugar used to treat constipation. It is known as a laxative and makes your stool easier to pass by drawing water into your bowel. It is also used to treat hepatic encephalopathy (a liver disease causing confusion, tremor, decreased level of consciousness). Swiftolac Syrup can be taken with or without food. You should take this medicine as advised by your doctor. Use this medicine regularly to get the maximum benefit and try to take it at the same time(s) each day. Your dose may go up or down depending on how well it is working. Do not take more than you are advised to and, if you miss a dose, do not take an extra one to make up for it. This medicine takes at least 48 hours to work. Talk to your doctor if you are still constipated after 3 days. The most common side effects are nausea and vomiting. These are usually mild and go away after a couple of days. Occasionally people develop serious side effects including severe diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance. Talk to your doctor straight away if you notice any of these. Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you have diabetes or if you are unable to digest milk sugar (lactose intolerant). If you use this medicine over a long period of time, your doctor may want you to have occasional blood tests to check the mineral levels (e.g. potassium and sodium). Do not take other laxative medicines while taking this medicine and check with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.