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<p>Lactose (milk sugar) is commonly used as a diluent in solid oral dosage forms such
as tablets and capsules; however is rarely present in oral liquid presentations or
parenteral dosage forms, such as injections. While no list of “lactose-free” medicines
is maintained, the presence or absence of lactose in any licensed medicine, including
those for breast cancer, can be readily identified.</p><p> </p><p>Where a medicine
contains lactose, this is highlighted, together with the quantity of lactose, within
the Summary of Product Characteristics. The package leaflet for that medicine will
also highlight in qualitative terms whether the medicine contains lactose. The package
leaflet is provided with each pack of medicine sold or dispensed in the United Kingdom.</p><p>
</p><p>The British National Formulary, a standard medical text in the UK, advises
that the lactose content in most medicines is too small to cause problems in most
lactose-intolerant patients. However, in patients with severe lactose intolerance,
lactose content should be determined before prescribing especially if they are taking
several products containing lactose.</p><p> </p><p>Clinicians prescribe the medicines
and drugs that are most appropriate for their patient, taking into account all relevant
factors and guidance. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, which
is responsible for the regulation of medicines in the UK, will help prescribers to
establish the availability of a lactose free version of any particular medicine.</p>
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