Comparison of the Effectiveness of Oral Lactase Enzyme and Lactose Free Formula

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Oral Lactase Enzyme and Lactose Free Formula in the Management of Secondary Lactose Intolerance in Persistent and Severe Persistent Diarrhea

This study aimed to fill the gaps by comparing the effectiveness of oral lactase enzyme and lactose free formula in the management of secondary lactose intolerance in persistent and severe persistent diarrhea.

Although it is well understood that oral lactase enzyme can play a pivotal role in hastening recovery due to secondary lactose intolerance in persistent diarrhea, there is limited local data available in this regard. If exogenous oral lactase enzyme is found to be more effective, it would help children receive uninterrupted milk and milk-based diet during the diarrheal episode, as the former would aid digestion and absorption of lactose, thus providing the necessary nutrients especially (calcium) and vitamins so vital in this period of rapid growth.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Both genders
• Aged 6-24 months
• Presented with persistent or severe persistent diarrhea due to secondary lactose intolerance
• Patients on formula or mixed feeding, or formula/cow/buffalo milk

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe acute malnutrition
• Hemodynamic instability (shock)
• Those on oral antibiotics or on excessive juices
• With conditions of malabsorptive states (celiac disease, protein losing enteropathy, or irritable bowel syndrome)