Over-the-counter options for lactose intolerance

Lactase tablets or drops provide the enzyme needed to break down lactose in a meal. They work only for lactose-containing foods and may be less helpful if the product is used incorrectly or the meal contains more lactose than expected. Antidiarrhoeal or gas-relief products may ease a symptom but do not confirm lactose intolerance. Read the active ingredients and warnings, especially if you take regular medicines, are pregnant, or are choosing a product for a child.

Ask a pharmacist how to use lactase with the specific food and product. Start by recording the food, product, timing and response rather than repeatedly masking symptoms. Compare this with smaller portions or lactose-free choices. Check labels because supplements and combination products differ. If symptoms continue despite sensible changes, arrange an assessment and consider Food Intolerance Testing only when a clinician advises it. Nutrition Counselling can help maintain a varied diet.

Seek medical advice for ongoing or unexplained abdominal pain, bloating or diarrhoea, especially with weight loss, blood in stool, fever or nighttime symptoms. Get urgent help for severe pain, dehydration, facial swelling, wheezing or trouble breathing. A product that helps one episode does not rule out infection, inflammation or allergy.

Ask which ingredient is suitable, whether it could interact with your medicines, how to protect calcium intake, and whether your symptoms need testing rather than symptom relief alone.