GYNO BALANCE
Lactose monohydrate BP
What it does
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is often used as an excipient in medications.
Commonly used for: lactose intolerance, as a filler in tablets and capsules
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 22:07:03 · updated 2026-09-21 02:30:19
About this medicine
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is often used as an excipient in medications.
What it treats
- lactose intolerance
- as a filler in tablets and capsules
How it works
Lactose helps improve the texture and stability of medications and is sometimes used as a sweetener.
Who it's for
Individuals who require lactose as part of their medication or those who consume dairy products.
Cautions
- • May cause digestive issues in people with lactose intolerance.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: lactose
BNF-referencedLactose is a disaccharide sugar composed of galactose and glucose, primarily found in milk and dairy products. It serves as a source of energy and is metabolized by the enzyme lactase. In individuals with lactase deficiency, lactose can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Indications
- Lactose intolerance
- As a filler or excipient in pharmaceutical formulations
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information based on age and clinical context.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information based on clinical context.
Mechanism of action
Lactose is metabolized in the intestine by the enzyme lactase into its constituent monosaccharides, glucose and galactose. In individuals with lactase deficiency, unabsorbed lactose passes into the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria, leading to gas production and osmotic effects that contribute to diarrhea.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of lactose are primarily related to its effects on gastrointestinal function. In healthy individuals, lactose is effectively broken down into glucose and galactose, which are absorbed and utilized for energy. In individuals with lactose intolerance, the unabsorbed lactose can cause osmotic diarrhea and colonic fermentation, leading to discomfort and symptoms associated with lactose intolerance.
Pharmacokinetics
Lactose is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract until it is hydrolyzed into glucose and galactose by lactase. The absorption of glucose and galactose occurs in the small intestine. The half-life is not applicable as lactose is not typically administered as a medication but is rather ingested as a natural component of food. Its metabolism primarily occurs in the intestine.
Adverse effects
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with lactose intolerance.
- Consider potential for gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals.
Pregnancy
Lactose is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, consult a healthcare professional for individual advice.
Breast-feeding
Lactose is safe to use while breastfeeding, as it is a natural sugar present in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Formulations
- Powder
- Granules
- Tablets
- Syrup
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: lactose
PubChem CID 6134Molecular formula: C12H22O11
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.