When people search for “lactose medications,” they generally seek information for two distinct reasons: either they are looking for products to help manage lactose intolerance, or they are concerned about lactose being present as an inactive ingredient in their prescribed or over-the-counter drugs. This article addresses both common inquiries, providing insights into managing lactose in a medical context.
Medications to Treat Lactose Intolerance
Over-the-counter (OTC) lactase enzyme supplements manage lactose intolerance symptoms. These supplements provide the lactase enzyme the body lacks, enabling the digestion of lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. The enzyme breaks down lactose into simpler sugars, glucose and galactose, which are then easily absorbed by the small intestine.
These supplements are available in various forms, including caplets, pills, chewable tablets, and liquid drops. Popular brand names such as Lactaid, Lactojoy, Colief, and Lac-Dose offer different formulations. While these products effectively help prevent symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea, they are supplements that manage symptoms and are not a cure for lactose intolerance.
Proper Use of Lactose Intolerance Treatments
For lactase enzyme supplements to be effective, timing is crucial. The supplement should be taken just before or with the first bite or sip of any dairy-containing food or beverage. This ensures the lactase enzyme is present in the digestive system when lactose from the food begins to enter.
The enzyme’s effectiveness lasts for about 30 to 45 minutes after ingestion. If a meal containing dairy extends beyond this timeframe, or if additional dairy is consumed later, another dose may be necessary. Dosage is not fixed and varies depending on the amount of lactose in the food and an individual’s level of intolerance. For instance, dosages often range from 3,000 to 9,000 FCC units. Taking the supplement too long before or after consuming dairy will be less effective, as the enzyme may no longer be active.
Lactose as an Inactive Ingredient in Medication
Lactose is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as an inactive ingredient, also known as an excipient, in many prescription and over-the-counter medications. It serves multiple purposes, acting as a filler, binder, disintegrant, or a diluent in dry-powder inhalations. Its popularity stems from desirable physicochemical properties, including excellent compressibility, chemical stability, and non-toxicity. Lactose is also chosen for its lack of taste or odor, wide availability, and affordability for manufacturers.
The amount of lactose in most medications is generally very small, often ranging from 100 to 200 milligrams per tablet. For the majority of individuals with lactose intolerance, this small quantity does not cause symptoms. However, people with severe lactose intolerance might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to cumulative exposure, especially if taking multiple lactose-containing medications daily. Common types of medications that may contain lactose include certain birth control pills, some allergy medications, and various drugs used to treat stomach acid or gas.
How to Manage Medications Containing Lactose
Identifying whether a medication contains lactose involves checking the patient information leaflet. Manufacturers are required to list all ingredients, including excipients, in this document. Consumers should look for terms such as “lactose monohydrate,” “lactose hydrous,” “lactose anhydrous,” or “lactose spray-dried” in the ingredients list.
Online databases, such as DailyMed, also provide comprehensive information on the active and inactive ingredients of many prescription medications. If concerns arise about lactose content, speak with a healthcare professional, such as a pharmacist or doctor. They can confirm the presence and amount of lactose and, if necessary, help identify a lactose-free alternative or a different medication suitable for an individual’s needs. Never discontinue a prescribed medication without first consulting a healthcare provider, as this could have adverse health consequences.