Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026
04:41
Measuring Lactase Enzymatic Activity in the Teaching Lab
Published on: August 6, 2018
[Calcium supplementation uncovering lactose intolerance - a case report]
Eva Trifina1, Dietmar Geissler, Elisabeth Zwettler
11. Medizinische Abteilung und Ludwig Boltzmann-Institut für Osteologie, Hanusch-Krankenhaus, Wien, Austria.
Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|April 11, 2012
Summary
Lactose intolerance can cause subtle gastrointestinal symptoms, especially when triggered by lactose-containing medications. Testing for lactose intolerance is recommended if symptoms arise after starting such drugs.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Lactose intolerance is a common condition.
- Osteoporosis management often involves calcium supplementation.
Observation:
- A patient with osteoporosis developed gastrointestinal symptoms after starting lactose-rich calcium supplements.
- Symptoms were consistent with lactose intolerance and confirmed by testing.
Findings:
- Medications containing lactose can precipitate or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with undiagnosed lactose intolerance.
- Lactose intolerance may present with subtle or non-specific gastrointestinal complaints.
Implications:
- Consider lactose intolerance in patients experiencing new gastrointestinal issues after initiating lactose-containing medications.
- Lactose tolerance testing or genetic analysis can confirm diagnosis.
- Prescribing lactose-free medications is advisable given the prevalence of lactose intolerance (15-25% in Austria).
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