Products
Lactose is available as a pure substance in pharmacies and drugstores. It is a natural component of the milk (lac) of mammals and is found in many foods. Lactose is extracted from whey.
Structure and properties
Lactose (C12H22O11, Mr = 342.3 g/mol) is a disaccharide composed of glucose and galactose and belongs to the carbohydrates. It exists as a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a slightly sweet taste that is readily but slowly soluble in water. The European Pharmacopoeia distinguishes between anhydrous lactose (Lactosum anhydricum) and lactose monohydrate (Lactosum monohydricum). Lactose is significantly less sweet than table sugar (sucrose).
Indications for use
- As a pharmaceutical excipient, e.g. in tablets and capsules.
- For the manufacture of processed foods.
- For the manufacture of powdered infant milk.
Adverse effects
Lactose intolerance or excessive consumption of lactose may cause digestive problems such as cramps, flatulence and diarrhea.
