Pancrelipase

Generic name: Pancrelipase
Drug class: Digestive enzymes

Usage of Pancrelipase

Pancrelipase is a combination of three enzymes (proteins): lipase, protease, and amylase. These enzymes are normally produced by the pancreas and are important in the digestion of fats, proteins, and sugars.

Pancrelipase is used to replace these enzymes when the body does not have enough of its own. Certain medical conditions can cause this lack of enzymes, including cystic fibrosis, chronic inflammation of the pancreas, or blockage of the pancreatic ducts.

Pancrelipase may also be used following surgical removal of the pancreas.

Pancrelipase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Pancrelipase side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic Reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Pancrelipase may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

joint pain or swelling; or

symptoms of a rare but serious bowel disorder--severe or unusual stomach pain, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, constipation.

Tell your doctor if your child is not growing at a normal rate while using pancrelipase.

Common side effects of pancrelipase may include:

stomach pain, gas, vomiting;

diarrhea, frequent or abnormal bowel movements;

rectal itching;

headache, dizziness;

runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat; or

changes in your blood sugar.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Pancrelipase

You should not take pancrelipase if you are allergic to pork proteins.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

kidney disease;

gout;

diabetes;

a blockage or scarring in your intestines;

trouble swallowing pills; or

lactose intolerance.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Do not give pancrelipase to a child without medical advice.

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How to use Pancrelipase

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Do not switch brands of this medicine without your doctor's advice.

Pancrelipase should be taken with a meal or snack.

Carefully follow all directions when giving this medicine to a child. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Do not crush, chew, or break a pancrelipase capsule or tablet. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water.

Do not hold the pill in your mouth. Pancrelipase can irritate the inside of your mouth.

If you cannot swallow a capsule whole, open it and mix the medicine with applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not mix the medicine with infant formula or breast milk.

Do not inhale the powder from a pancrelipase capsule, or allow it to touch your skin. It may cause irritation, especially to your nose and lungs.

Pancrelipase is sometimes given with a stomach acid reducer such as Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, or Protonix. Follow your doctor's instructions about taking all medicines needed to treat your condition.

Doses are based on weight. Your dose may change if you gain or lose weight.

Follow all storage instructions provided with pancrelipase. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to store this medicine.

Call your doctor if you have any worsening of a long-term pancreas problem.

Warnings

Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of a rare but serious bowel disorder: severe or unusual stomach pain, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.

What other drugs will affect Pancrelipase

Other drugs may affect pancrelipase, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Disclaimer

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