What is Sacrosidase: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Sacrosidase is a prescription enzyme replacement therapy that helps people digest sucrose (table sugar) when their body doesn't make enough of this enzyme naturally. This liquid medication contains the same enzyme your small intestine normally produces to break down sugar into smaller, more easily absorbed parts.

If you've been struggling with stomach pain, bloating, or diarrhea after eating sugary foods, sacrosidase might be the solution your doctor recommends. It's specifically designed for people with a rare genetic condition called congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency, where the body can't properly process certain sugars.

What is Sacrosidase Used For?

Sacrosidase treats congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (CSID), a genetic condition where your body doesn't produce enough enzymes to digest sucrose and some starches. People with this condition experience uncomfortable digestive symptoms whenever they eat foods containing table sugar or certain starches.

This enzyme replacement therapy works by providing the missing digestive enzymes your body needs. When you take sacrosidase before meals containing sugar, it helps break down sucrose in your digestive system, preventing the painful symptoms that would otherwise occur.

The medication is particularly helpful for managing symptoms that occur after eating foods like fruits, baked goods, candies, or any products containing added sugars. Without this enzyme support, these foods can cause significant digestive distress in people with CSID.

How Does Sacrosidase Work?

Sacrosidase works by replacing the missing or insufficient sucrase enzyme in your digestive system. This enzyme normally sits along the lining of your small intestine, where it breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose - two simpler sugars your body can easily absorb.

When you take sacrosidase before eating, it travels to your small intestine and performs the same job your natural enzymes should be doing. Think of it as providing your digestive system with the right tools to handle sugar properly.

This is considered a targeted, specific treatment rather than a strong medication. It doesn't affect your entire body - it simply provides the missing enzyme function in your digestive tract, allowing you to process sugary foods more normally.

How Should I Take Sacrosidase?

Take sacrosidase exactly as your doctor prescribes, typically before meals or snacks that contain sucrose. The liquid medication comes with a measuring device to ensure you get the right dose every time.

You'll want to take this medication about 15 minutes before eating foods that contain sugar. You can take it directly by mouth or mix it with a small amount of water, milk, or infant formula if needed. Never mix it with fruit juice, as the acidity can reduce the enzyme's effectiveness.

Store the medication in your refrigerator and never freeze it. The enzyme is sensitive to heat, so keep it cold until you're ready to use it. If you're traveling, you can keep it at room temperature for short periods, but return it to the refrigerator as soon as possible.

Always measure your dose carefully using the provided measuring device. Kitchen spoons aren't accurate enough for medication dosing, and getting the right amount is important for the enzyme to work properly.

How Long Should I Take Sacrosidase For?

Sacrosidase is typically a long-term treatment that you'll need to continue as long as you want to eat foods containing sucrose. Since CSID is a genetic condition, your body's ability to produce the missing enzymes won't improve over time.

Many people find they need to take sacrosidase indefinitely to manage their symptoms effectively. This isn't because the medication is habit-forming, but because the underlying enzyme deficiency is permanent.

Your doctor will monitor how well the medication works for you and may adjust your dosing schedule based on your symptoms and dietary needs. Some people find they can reduce their dose if they limit sugary foods, while others need consistent dosing to maintain comfort.

What Are the Side Effects of Sacrosidase?

Most people tolerate sacrosidase well, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The good news is that serious side effects are uncommon with this enzyme replacement therapy.

Here are the most commonly reported side effects you might experience:

• Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort
• Nausea or feeling queasy
• Diarrhea, especially when first starting treatment
• Vomiting in some cases
• Headache
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded

These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to the medication, usually within the first few weeks of treatment. If they persist or worsen, let your doctor know so they can adjust your dosage or timing.

Some people may experience allergic reactions, though this is rare. Watch for signs like skin rash, itching, swelling of your face or throat, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

Very rarely, some people develop more serious digestive issues or experience worsening of their original symptoms. This might indicate that the dosage needs adjustment or that there's another underlying condition that needs attention.

Who Should Not Take Sacrosidase?

Sacrosidase isn't suitable for everyone, and certain medical conditions or situations may make it unsafe for you to use this medication. Your doctor will carefully review your medical history before prescribing it.

You should not take sacrosidase if you're allergic to any of its ingredients or if you've had allergic reactions to similar enzyme products in the past. People with severe diabetes may need special monitoring, as the medication can affect blood sugar levels.

Here are situations where sacrosidase may not be appropriate:

• Known allergies to yeast or yeast products
• Severe kidney or liver disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease in active flare-up
• Recent stomach or intestinal surgery
• Severe diabetes with poor blood sugar control

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor, as there's limited research on sacrosidase use during these times. The medication may be necessary if CSID symptoms are severe, but careful monitoring is important.

If you have any chronic digestive conditions beyond CSID, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan or provide additional monitoring to ensure the medication works safely for you.

Sacrosidase Brand Names

Sacrosidase is available under the brand name Sucraid in the United States. This is currently the primary brand name you'll encounter when your doctor prescribes this medication.

Sucraid is manufactured as an oral solution and comes in bottles with specific measuring devices to ensure accurate dosing. The medication requires a prescription and isn't available over-the-counter.

Since this is a specialized medication for a rare condition, there are currently no generic versions available. Your pharmacy may need to special order it, so plan ahead when refilling your prescription.

Sacrosidase Alternatives

Currently, sacrosidase is the only FDA-approved enzyme replacement therapy specifically for treating CSID. However, there are some management strategies and supportive treatments that can help alongside or instead of medication.

The primary alternative to sacrosidase is strict dietary management, which involves avoiding foods that contain sucrose and limiting certain starches. This approach requires careful meal planning and reading food labels, but many people successfully manage their symptoms this way.

Some people find limited relief with over-the-counter digestive enzymes, though these aren't specifically designed for CSID and may not be as effective. Probiotics might help support overall digestive health, but they don't replace the missing sucrase enzyme.

Working with a registered dietitian who understands CSID can be incredibly valuable for developing meal plans that minimize symptoms while ensuring proper nutrition. This approach often works well combined with sacrosidase therapy.

Is Sacrosidase Better Than Dietary Management Alone?

Sacrosidase offers significant advantages over dietary management alone, particularly in terms of quality of life and nutritional flexibility. While strict diet control can manage CSID symptoms, it often requires eliminating many foods that most people enjoy regularly.

With sacrosidase, you can eat a more varied diet that includes fruits, baked goods, and other foods containing sucrose without experiencing severe digestive symptoms. This flexibility can be especially important for children's social development and adults' lifestyle preferences.

However, dietary management alone works well for some people, particularly those who prefer not to take medication or who have very mild symptoms. The choice often depends on your symptom severity, lifestyle preferences, and how restrictive a sugar-free diet feels to you.

Many people find that combining both approaches works best - using sacrosidase when eating foods with higher sugar content while still being mindful of their overall sugar intake. This balanced approach can provide symptom relief while maintaining good digestive health.