The Web Health

Lactaid

Generic name: Lactase
Brand names: Lactaid Fast Act (Lactaid), Lactaid Ultra (Lac-Dose), Lactrase, Surelac
Drug class: digestive enzymes

What is Lactaid?

Lactaid, an enzyme, helps your body break down lactose found in dairy products. Consuming dairy products can cause diarrhoea, gas, and bloating if you are lactose intolerant.Lactaid is a dietary product that helps prevent the symptoms of lactose-intolerant people who consume dairy products or milk.Lactaid may not be effective for treating medical conditions. This product has not been approved for medical purposes by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This medicine is not intended to replace medication prescribed by your doctor.Lactaid can be sold as a supplement. Supplements are not subject to any manufacturing standards, and some products on the market have been found to be contaminated with toxic drugs or metals. To minimise the risk, it is important to purchase dietary supplements from a reputable source.Lactaid can be used in other ways than those listed in the product guide.

Side effects of Lactaid

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.You may experience less serious side effects or none at all.There may be other side effects.Call your physician immediately if any adverse side effects appear; alternatively, for reporting side effects contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Use exactly as directed on the package and label. Follow the directions provided on both labels and packages.

Before you take this drug

This product contains phenylalanine, which could be harmful to those with phenylketonuria.If you have any other medical conditions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider whether it's safe to use the product.Lactaid should not be given to children younger than four years of age.Consult your doctor before using the product if you are pregnant or nursing.

How to take

Consult your doctor before using a supplement. Consider consulting a herbalist or health supplement specialist.Use Lactaid as directed by the label or your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare provider. Use only the recommended amount of Lactaid.You can take Lactaid daily with every meal and snack that contains dairy. This medicine can be taken daily with any meal or snack that contains milk.Lactaid can be taken again if you continue to consume dairy products within 30 to 45 minutes.If you continue to experience symptoms of lactose insensitivity or if they worsen while using the product, call your doctor.Store away from moisture or heat. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Do not take two doses at once. Take no more than one dose at a time.

What happens if I overdose?

A lactaid overdose is unlikely to result in serious symptoms.

What should be avoided?

Lactaid may be less effective if you take your dose too soon or late after a meal containing dairy.

Interaction with other drug

Lactaid may be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.