Aspartame
Indications
Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener. It is used as a sugar substitute by people with diabetes, people trying to lose or control weight, and anyone wanting to cut down on sugar. It is sold as small tablets or powder for sweetening tea, coffee and drinks, and is also found in many diet foods, soft drinks and some chewable or sugar-free medicines.
How It Works
Aspartame is made from two amino acids, Aspartic Acid and Phenylalanine. It is about 200 times sweeter than sugar, so only a tiny amount is needed and it adds almost no calories. It does not raise blood sugar in a meaningful way. In the gut it is broken down into its amino acids and a small amount of methanol, all in quantities similar to those from ordinary foods.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label, usually one tablet or sachet in place of each teaspoon of sugar. Food safety authorities set an acceptable daily intake of 40 mg per kg of body weight, which is far more than most people use. Aspartame loses sweetness with long heating, so it is better added to drinks after cooking or boiling.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines are known at normal amounts. People taking Levodopa or MAO inhibitors and those on a strict low-protein diet should discuss large intakes of Phenylalanine with their doctor.
Contraindications
- Phenylketonuria (PKU), an inherited condition in which the body cannot break down Phenylalanine. Products containing aspartame carry a warning for this reason.
- Known sensitivity to aspartame.
Side Effects
Most people have no side effects at normal amounts. A few people report headaches, mild stomach upset or dizziness, though studies have not shown a clear link.
Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, hives or difficulty breathing. People with PKU who take aspartame by mistake should contact their doctor.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Normal amounts are considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women with PKU must avoid it, because high Phenylalanine levels can harm the unborn baby. As with any sweetener, moderation is sensible.
Precautions and Warnings
Sweeteners help reduce sugar intake, but people with diabetes still need to follow their full diet and medicine plan. Do not give large amounts to young children. Read food and medicine labels if you have PKU.
Overdose
Swallowing a large number of sweetener tablets is unlikely to cause serious harm, but may cause stomach upset. People with PKU or young children who take a large amount should be checked by a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Artificial (non-nutritive) sweetener.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Aspartame