Understanding Lactase Enzyme: A Comprehensive Guide

Summary or Key Points

Lactase enzyme is a dietary supplement used to help individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It aids in the digestion process, thus reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency, and lactose malabsorption. This article covers important information about this medication, such as its dosing, administration instructions, possible side effects, contraindications, and interactions.

Names of Medication

The US Brand Name for Lactase Enzyme is Lactaid (Generic Name: Lactase Enzyme).

A ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient of the medicine. In this article, the generic name is given in parentheses next to the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Lactase enzyme belongs to the category of drugs known as digestive enzymes. Other medications in this category include pancrelipase (Pancreaze, Creon, Zenpep) and alpha-galactosidase (Beano, Gas-X Prevention).

Dosing

Lactase enzyme is indicated for adults with the following conditions:

• Lactose Intolerance: Take 9000 FCC units with the first bite or sip of dairy. Dosage may be adjusted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and dietary needs.
• Lactase Deficiency: The dose can vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. It’s essential to consult with your doctor for an appropriate dosage.
• Lactose Malabsorption: Take 9000 FCC units with the first bite or sip of dairy. Dosage may be adjusted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and dietary needs.

Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If you have any questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to schedule an immediate consultation with one of our providers via telemedicine.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Lactase enzyme is available over the counter in the following forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 3000 FCC Units, 9000 FCC Units
• Caplets: 9000 FCC Units
• Chewable Tablets: 9000 FCC Units

Administration Instructions

Lactase enzyme should be taken with the first bite or sip of dairy products. If you continue to eat or drink dairy products after 30-45 minutes, it is recommended to take another dose. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions on how to take this medication.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

While most people do not experience side effects from lactase enzyme, potential side effects may include:

• Abdominal discomfort or bloating – Usually temporary and less frequent as the body adjusts to the medication. (Rare)
• Diarrhea – If this occurs, contact your healthcare provider. (Rare)
• Gaseousness – A temporary side effect that may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. (Rare)

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you notice other effects not listed above, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Remember, you can quickly reach one of our healthcare providers via our telemedicine service.

Contraindications

Contraindications refer to specific situations or conditions when a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. For lactase enzyme, contraindications include:

• Allergy or hypersensitivity to lactase enzyme: Those who have a known allergy to lactase enzyme should not take this medication.

If you believe you have an allergy or have experienced unusual reactions to lactase enzyme, consult with your healthcare provider immediately. Through our telemedicine service, we can help you find an appropriate alternative to manage your symptoms.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Currently, there are no known significant drug-drug interactions with lactase enzyme. However, this does not mean interactions do not exist. Always communicate with your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Lactase Enzyme in Pregnancy

There is limited data on the use of lactase enzyme during pregnancy. It’s always important to consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy. Our telemedicine service is available for immediate consultations.

Lactase Enzyme while Breastfeeding

Lactase enzyme is considered safe during breastfeeding. However, always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding. Remember, our providers are available for immediate consultations via our telemedicine service.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of Lactase Enzyme (Lactaid) without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $12-$18 for 120 tablets of the 9000 FCC Unit strength.

Possible Alternatives

For lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency, and lactose malabsorption, alternative treatments or lifestyle changes can include:

• Dietary changes: Limiting or avoiding lactose-containing foods.
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements: To prevent deficiencies.
• Other digestive enzymes: Such as Beano (alpha-galactosidase).

Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Remember, our providers are available for immediate consultations via our telemedicine service.

Recent Updates on Lactase Enzyme Research

Recent studies continue to support the effectiveness of lactase enzyme supplements in managing symptoms of lactose intolerance. Researchers are now exploring the role of probiotics in conjunction with lactase enzyme supplements to improve gut health. As research is ongoing, always consult your healthcare provider for the most recent and applicable information. Remember, our telemedicine service can provide you with immediate access to a healthcare provider for all your questions and concerns.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and changes may occur that may not be reflected here. Please discuss any concerns or questions you have about your health or medications with your healthcare provider.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.