There are times when our bodies have difficulty digesting certain foods, especially sweet ones. Have you ever experienced symptoms like stomach upset, bloating, or diarrhea after eating? One of the main reasons for this could be a lack of sucrase, an enzyme that helps our body digest sucrose. In such a case, we are talking about a special medicine that a doctor can recommend to you.
What exactly is Sacrosidase?
Simply put, Sacrosidase is an exogenous replacement for the enzyme sucrase that is naturally lacking in your body.
Think of our body as a big factory. The food we eat is the raw material for this factory. Various workers (enzymes) work to convert these raw materials into energy. Sucrase is a special worker that breaks down the sugar (especially sucrose) we eat and prepares it in a way that the body can absorb. Some people are born with a deficiency of this 'worker'. Sacrosidase (often sold under the brand name Sucraid) is an external helper that replaces that missing 'worker'. When you take this medicine, you will get a great help in properly digesting the sugar (sucrose) in the foods you eat, and you will get a great relief from the discomfort caused by it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, it is important to know some information about you. Therefore, if any of the following apply to you, be sure to inform your doctor.
- Allergies: If you are allergic to the medicine Sacrosidase itself, yeast, glycerin, papain (these are substances used in medicine and food production), or any other medicine, food, or preservative.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are hoping to become pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a child.
Based on this information, it will be easier for the doctor to decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
What is the best way to use the medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
- This is a liquid medicine to take by mouth . Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Each dose should be diluted with 2-4 ounces (about 60-120 ml) of water, milk, or infant formula .
- Use only the specially marked measuring scoop that comes with the medicine. Do not use regular household teaspoons, as this may result in incorrect dosage.
- Very important: The water, milk, etc. you mix this medicine with should be cold or at room temperature . Never mix it with hot liquids. Doing so will destroy the enzyme in the medicine and make it less effective.
- Also, do not mix this with acidic drinks like fruit juice.
- This medicine should be taken with a meal . The best way is to take half of the dose prescribed by your doctor at the start of a meal and the other half during the meal.
- If you are giving this medicine to children, follow the doctor's instructions exactly. There may be special precautions to be taken.
Remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you.
Things to consider and side effects
Like any medicine, Sacrosidase can cause some side effects, but most people do not experience serious side effects.
| Nature of the side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions | If you experience any symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, it may be an emergency. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| Side effects that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. |
| Other common features | Headache, insomnia, restlessness or anxiety. |
Interactions with other medications
This medicine may interact with some diabetes medications (e.g. Acarbose, Miglitol). Therefore, it is important to give your doctor a complete list of all medications you take, including herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements. It is important for your safety.
What if I miss a dose of medicine?
If you miss a dose before a meal, don't worry. Take the dose as soon as you finish eating. However, if it is almost time for your next meal, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as usual. Never take a double dose.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Storage: This medicine should be stored on a shelf inside the fridge . Maintain the temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (2°C - 8°C). Protect from heat and direct light. Be sure to throw away any remaining medicine after 4 weeks of opening the bottle. This is because bacteria can grow in it. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
- Disposal: Do not simply throw expired or unused medication in the trash. If you are unsure whether it is appropriate to dispose of it, ask your doctor . If you are advised to dispose of it in the trash, remove the medication from the bottle, mix it with something like used tea leaves or coffee grounds, and place it in a tightly sealed bag and discard.
If your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse, always contact your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Sacrosidase is an enzyme replacement that helps your body digest sugar (sucrose).
- Always mix the medicine only with cold or room temperature water, milk, or baby formula. Never mix it with hot liquids or fruit juice.
- Take half of the prescribed dose at the beginning of a meal and the remaining half during the meal.
- Keep the bottle of medicine in the refrigerator, open it and discard the remainder within 4 weeks.
- If you experience symptoms of a severe allergy (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
- It is very important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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