PANCREATIN
Background and Date of Approval
Pancreatin received U.S. FDA approval on April 30, 2009 for pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. This high-strength pancreatic enzyme supplement contains natural enzymes derived from pig pancreas glands.
Uses
Pancreatin treats pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. It is a condition when the pancreas gland does not make enough enzymes to digest food. This medication is typically used by individuals with conditions such as cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis, partial or total pancreatectomy (part or all of the pancreas removed), or pancreatic cancer.
How is it administered?
Pancreatin capsule/tablet Take Pancreatin capsule/tablet as your physician advises. Swallow the capsule whole and intact. Do not crush, break, or chew the medicine. Take medicine during or immediately after eating a meal or snack so that the enzymes mix well with your food and aid digestion as it passes through your gut. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Stop the medicine only if your doctor advises. Pancreatin Granules Take Pancreatin as your physician advises. Avoid non-acidic mixtures, crushing, chewing, or storing the mixture. Do not hold in your mouth. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Stop the medicine only if your doctor advises.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Pancreatin are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, sickness, and bloating.
Warnings
Do not consume Pancreatin if you are allergic to Pancreatin, pork, pig-related products, or any of its ingredients. Report to your doctor if you notice any unusual abdominal symptoms or changes in abdominal symptoms. Do not double-dose the medicine to make up for a forgotten dose.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Your medical professional will inform you if you need any dose adjustments. Limited information is available on the use of Pancreatin in patients with liver disease. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your doctor before considering its usage to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your condition. Contact your doctor for more information.
Word of Advice
Discontinue treatment and seek medical attention if severe allergic reactions such as itching, hives, or rash occur. Mouth irritation may develop if capsules are chewed or retained in the mouth; avoid this by sprinkling Pancreatin onto specific food items. Patients with cystic fibrosis receiving high-dose therapy should be aware of reports of fibrosing colonopathy, a rare bowel condition. Do not discontinue the medicine without medical advice. Inform your doctor of any serious side effects. Your doctor will advise if dose adjustments are required. Store below 25°C and protect from freezing. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Verify the expiry date before use.
References
Mylan; Pancreatin; [Accessed on 21st July 2023], https://file.wuxuwang.com/hma/DE_H_5183_002_FinalPL_2of2.pdf Mylan, Electronic medicine compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2022], [Accessed on 21st July 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/EMC/files/pil.1168.pdf K.D Tripathi, Antiemetic, Prokinetic and Digestant Drugs, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 709-720. Kenneth R. McQuaid, Drugs Used in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases, Langeâs Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 1087-1119.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Pancreatin if Iâm pregnant?
Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Pancreatin during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary.
What is Pancreatin?
Pancreatin is a natural enzyme taken from pig pancreas glands to treat pancreatic exocrine insufficiency.
Can I use Pancreatin with other medications?
Before using Pancreatin, it is essential to consult your doctor, as they can interact with various other medications. Talking to your doctor will help to ensure the safety and appropriate use of the medicine with your current medication regimen.
What are the recommended foods for patients with pancreatic enzyme insufficiency?
Following a low-fat diet with lean proteins, soft fruits, and well-cooked vegetables for pancreatic enzyme insufficiency. Choose low-fat dairy and easily digestible grains. Avoid high-fat and fried foods. Work with a healthcare professional to create a personalized meal plan.
What are the side effects of Pancreatin?
The common side effects of Pancreatin are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, sickness, and bloating.