Generic
Lactase
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Lactase is an enzyme used to prevent symptoms of lactose intolerance. It breaks down milk sugar (lactose) into glucose and galactose, making dairy foods easier to digest.
Description
Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose through hydrolysis, making dairy foods easier to digest. It is also used for the prevention of infantile colic. Lactase is not absorbed from the GI tract and works in the intestine.
Indications
- Prevention of lactose intolerance symptoms
- Infantile colic
- Abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, diarrhea (due to lactose intolerance)
Therapeutic class
Digestive Enzyme
Pharmacological class
Enzyme
Pharmacology
Lactase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes lactose to glucose and galactose. Lactose is hydrolyzed by intestinal lactase to monosaccharides which are absorbed systemically by uptake of the sodium-dependent glucose carrier.
Mechanism of action
Breaks down milk sugar (lactose) into glucose and galactose, making dairy foods easier to digest.
Dosage
Chewable Tablet (Adult & Child):
- 1 tablet with dairy food
- Dose can be adjusted up to 2 tablets at a time if needed
- 3,000-9,000 units with meals or dairy
Pediatric Drops (Infant Colic):
- Breast milk: Add 4 drops to 2-3 tablespoons of expressed breast milk
- Formula: Add 4 drops to warm (not hot) formula, wait 30 minutes
Administration
- Chewable tablet: Chew with dairy food
- Pediatric drops: Mix with breast milk or formula and feed the infant
Missed dose
Not generally applicable; consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Rare Side Effects:
- Rash
- Difficulty in breathing
- Tightness in chest
Mostly no significant side effects are reported.
Precautions & warnings
- Avoid use if allergic to lactase or any components
- Use during pregnancy and lactation only when clearly needed
- Aspartame-containing products should be avoided in patients with phenylketonuria
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to lactase or any components of the product
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions found.
Food interactions
No food interactions known.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: It is unknown if lactase may cause harm to the fetus; use only when clearly needed.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: It is unknown if lactase is excreted in breast milk; use only when clearly needed.
Pediatric use
Effective and safe in children above 4 years of age; consult doctor for younger children.
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; no special precautions needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No specific precautions for renal or hepatic impairment.
Overdose effects
No specific overdose information available; excessive doses may increase the risk of side effects.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Lactase