Lactaid

Lactaid Extra Drug Information

• Lactaid Overview

  Lactaid is an enzyme supplement used to help people who have trouble digesting milk and other dairy products (lactose intolerance). Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk products. Lactase enzyme is normally produced by the body to help break down (digest) lactose. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body produces low amounts of lactase enzyme. Lactose intolerance can begin at different ages. Infants are not usually affected, but lactose intolerance can affect children as young as 2. It is very common in adults. One way to treat lactose intolerance is to avoid milk products. However, this can result in a lack of important nutrients and vitamins such as calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, and protein. Some people use lactose-free milk or milk substitutes such as soy or rice milk. Most people with low lactase enzyme levels can tolerate small amounts of milk products at one time (2-4 ounces) and get symptoms only with larger servings (6 ounces or more). Taking lactase enzyme with milk products as directed can help prevent upset stomach, abdominal bloating/cramping, gas, and diarrhea caused by these products. The FDA has not reviewed Lactaid for safety or effectiveness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

• How to Use Lactaid

  Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed Lactaid, use it as directed. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

• Lactaid Precautions

  Before taking Lactaid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Lactaid may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. If you have any health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Lactaid. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). It is not known whether Lactaid passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

• Lactaid Misdose

  Not applicable.

• Lactaid Interactions

  Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

• Lactaid Side Effects

  What are Lactaid side effects?

  Side effects are physical, mental or emotional symptoms which occur in addition to or outside of the desired effect of a therapeutic treatment such as an over-the-counter or prescribed drug or medication. Side effects from Lactaid may occur at the beginning or at the end of treatment and may also depend on the length of time an individual remains on the treatment. Side effects, also known as adverse effects, are generally more likely to occur when starting treatment. Individuals may also experience side effects from Lactaid as a result of an interaction with other medications.

  Side Effects of Lactaid

  The side effects of Lactaid may vary in number and intensity for many different reasons. Factors such as age, weight, gender and ethnicity may influence the side effects of Lactaid. Also, an individual’s state of general physical health and seriousness of the disease or illness as well as an increase or decrease in dosage may lead to side effects. Further, side effects from Lactaid may also occur as a result of an interaction with certain herbal supplements, foods or drinks.

  Prescription drug side effects can be serious and may cause patients to stop the treatment. However, when side effects from the use of a prescription drug, such as Lactaid, do occur a patient should consult their physician. A physician may prescribe an additional treatment in order to control the symptoms or an adjustment in the dosage may be made. In addition, changes to diet, exercise or other lifestyle activities may help to lessen the side effects of Lactaid.

  By understanding side effects and the factors which may influence the occurrence of side effects patients are empowered to take an active role in their care. Patients who have specific questions about the side effects of Lactaid, or any other medication, should contact their physician. General information about Lactaid and the side effects associated with Lactaid are described in the following:

  Common Lactaid Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  Less Frequent Lactaid Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  Rare or Very Rare Lactaid Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

• Lactaid Storage

  Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all products away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Lactaid when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.